Although it is a very unpleasant subject, I would like to talk about one aspect of cancer treatment today. We shouldn’t always have to make the world look rosy in beauty articles. There are facts of life and our duty is to guide you in all circumstances.
I have always paid attention to the fact that patients who did not give up on their cancer treatment and who took care of their appearance, managed to emerge victorious from this war. Dressing well within our own standards, even wearing new clothes if possible, taking care of our skin, hair and make-up despite all the restrictions, and getting involved in social life provides an incredible support. Because commitment to life increases body resistance. People don’t treat you like a patient when you look good on the outside. This positive impression emanating from you returns to you exponentially.
CHEMOTHERAPY AND RADIOTHERAPY INCREASES SKIN SENSITIVITY:
It is necessary to avoid any application that may irritate the skin during cancer treatments. Peelings and chemicals are never used. Hot showers, baths, even deodorants, shaving, sauna, jacuzzi, hammam, harsh soaps, washcloths, even seams on clothes can cause irritation. On the other hand, stay away from oils or moisturizers that contain vitamin E. These products cause allergic reactions in the skin that is sensitized after radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
DON’T BE Afraid of Washing:
Many of our patients believe that if water touches their skin, the irritation will increase and therefore they hesitate to wash. This view is unfounded. Those undergoing cancer treatment can wash as much as they want. However, when showering, use warm water instead of hot water, and prefer moisturizing shower gels and creams instead of soap. If you want, fill a bucket with warm water and put some baby oil in it. Use this mixture to rinse your body. Products containing aloe vera also soothe the skin and keep it moist. After the shower, remove the moisture from head to toe with 2 soft towels or absorbent fabrics, without rubbing your body. It is easy to encounter fungi as the body resistance decreases during the treatment. The cleaner and drier you keep your skin, the less this risk is.
SILK TIME:
I recommend wearing silk underwear if possible to keep the skin soft and moist. Also, touching the silk makes you feel beautiful and fresh. Such small pleasures are more valuable than ever in this period…
ATTENTION TO THE SUN!
During the treatment, the sensitivity of the skin to the sun increases greatly. Therefore, you should protect yourself from the sun very well. You should always keep high factor protection creams, wide-brimmed hats, light summer clothes with long sleeves at hand.
HAIR..
Some cancer patients shave their hair “zero” during the treatment period. There is no need for this. You will both stigmatize yourself and when the hair starts to grow, it makes the scalp itchy. The best is to cut your hair short. You can also use a wig if you wish.
When your hair starts to grow back, you will notice that the hair strands are getting thicker and your hair is more wavy than before. Be patient with the dye or perm. Remember that even though your hair has grown out, your skin is still open to irritation.
EYEBROWS-LASHES AND MAKEUP
During the treatment, eyebrows and eyelashes are most likely to fall out. Use powder shadow instead of pencil to draw eyebrows on yourself. It is easier to draw and provides a more natural look.
You can frame your eyes with a pencil or eye-liner. You will be more comfortable especially if you prefer the waterproof ones. Because chemotherapy can cause hot flashes and sweating as in menopause.
Do not use mascara during this period. Mascara can also cause your few remaining lashes to fall out. Don’t get discouraged, eyebrows and eyelashes will come back quickly after treatment.
MOTION SYSTEM KEEPS Afloat:
The number of people coping with this life-threatening disease is quite high. Morale and movement are paramount in this process. Movement sustains the whole system. Being tied to the bed collapses the patient. You should take advantage of even the smallest opportunity that will raise your morale even a little bit. If you feel sorry for yourself and walk away from life, no one can turn you from your path. However, the more you take care of every living cell and yourself, the more effective the treatment will be. And the people around you find the enthusiasm and opportunity to reach you and support you more. Don’t let yourself go!
