*This article has been written in collaboration with CURE BREAST CANCER Foundation.

In October, we wear pink. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is dedicated to help increase awareness of the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women and the most common cancer among Canadian women (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers). Breast cancer can also occur in men, but it is not common.

People wear pink ribbons to honour survivors, remember those lost to the disease, and support the progress we are making together to defeat breast cancer.

It is estimated that in 2020:

• 27,400 women will have been diagnosed with breast cancer. This represents 25% of all new cancer cases in women in 2020.
• 5,100 women will have died from breast cancer. This represents 13% of all cancer deaths in women in 2020.
• On average, 75 Canadian women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
• On average, 14 Canadian women will die from breast cancer every day.
• 240 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 55 will die from breast cancer.

G.M. Collin has partnered with CURE BEAST CANCER Foundation, in a pledge to donate $5 for each Ceramide Comfort Serum and Native Collagen Gel sold in October.

What are the effects of cancer or treatments like chemotherapy or radiation on the skin?

Cancer treatment can affect and sensitize a person’s skin, hair, and nails. Often, skin problems from cancer treatment are not severe, but they can be uncomfortable and noticeable. Sometimes an itch, pain, or discomfort is the first sign that a skin condition is beginning.

When going through cancer treatment, it is common to see changes in skin texture or colour. Chemotherapy can cause hair loss, including eyebrows and eyelashes. These changes are usually temporary but feeling like you don't look like yourself can add extra stress during treatment.

What beauty and well-being advice could you give to patients receiving chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormone treatments?

1. Keep dry skin moisturized

• Before using any new skincare products, check with your cancer care team, especially if you are still receiving treatment or if you have had a skin reaction.
• Moisturize your face and body frequently, and within 15 minutes of showering, with products that are made with clean ingredients. Unscented products are an ideal option for sensitive skin and olfactory sensitivity. Products that contain protective ceramides are recommended to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier and minimize moisture loss. Do not neglect your neck and décolleté. Let the moisturizer settle in before applying any makeup to optimize longer wear.
• Bathe with a moisturizing and fragrance-free soap.
• Slather on a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning.
• When skin is very dry and cracked, it is recommended to use moisturizers containing salicylic acid, urea, ammonium, or lactic acid. These will soften the skin and allow water to be retained.
• You may want to carry a small mister with water or a toning mist and use it several times daily to moisturize your face.

To try:

2. Use makeup to enhance your skin tone

Trying to look your best might be the last thing on your mind when faced with a cancer diagnosis. But you might also find that learning a few new makeup techniques to help you look more like your normal self can help you feel better and give you more confidence while going through treatment.

• To avoid infection, wash your hands before applying makeup. Buy new makeup before starting treatment and replace eyeliner and mascara monthly.
• Less is more when it comes to makeup, especially during treatment. One should stay away from silicones in skin products and makeup primers; they are very heavy and prevent the skin from breathing.
• Pat on concealer to hide reddish or dark areas. Then apply a warm tone foundation, blending into your neck for a natural look. For lighter coverage, you can opt for a CC Cream, that will perfect the complexion while maintaining hydration throughout the day.
• Use a powder blush for long-lasting colour, applying blush upwards from cheek to hairline. Use left-over powder on the brush to give a glow to your forehead and chin.
• You may experience hyperpigmentation or steroid-induced redness during this time, but it is best to hold off on treating it during chemotherapy. A good quality concealer topped with a dusting of non-drying finishing powder can disguise these spots easily.

To try:

3. Add colour to your lips

Lipstick and lip gloss are always great mood lifters. Use organic-based, natural lip products that are unscented, as your sense of smell will likely become acute during treatment. Try bright, bold shades to brighten your beautiful face. Lips can become ultra-dry during chemo treatment, so have a moisturizing lip balm on hand.

• Apply lip balm before outlining and filling in your lips with a lip brush.
• Gently smudge the outline of your upper lip with your finger to give a natural effect.
• Apply a light coat of lip gloss.

To try:

Avoid:

• Products that irritate the skin. This includes soaps, detergents, and creams with strong fragrances.
• Products that scratch or scrub your skin, such as sponges, bath scrubs, or loofahs.
• Don’t use alcohol or alcohol pads on your skin in the area being treated.

To learn more about the CURE BREAST CANCER Foundation or to support the cause, click here.

References:

https://www.curefoundation.com/know-your-normal
https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/breast/statistics
https://www.cancer.net/coping-with-cancer/physical-emotional-and-social-effects-cancer/managing-physical-side-effects/skin-conditions
https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/skin-problems/make-up-tips.html