Some treatments lower estrogen or affect blood flow and tissue health. This can make the genital tissues thinner, drier, and more sensitive.

• Internal (vaginal) dryness may feel like tightness, irritation, or pain with penetration.
• External (vulvar) dryness may cause discomfort with touch or even daily activities.

• Lubricants are used during sexual activity to reduce friction.
• Moisturizers are used on a regular basis to help improve overall moisture and comfort over time.

• Water-based lubricants are a good place to start.
• Silicone-based lubricants last longer and may help with more severe dryness.
• Do not use silicone-based lubricants with silicone dilators or sex toys, as they can cause damage over time.
• You may need to try a few options to find what works best for you.

Avoid products labeled:

• “Warming”
• “Cooling”
• “Intensifying”

These can irritate sensitive tissues, especially after treatment.

Some people find vaginal suppositories work well to add moisture to the vagina and improve internal dryness. These are inserted into the vagina where the active ingredient (hyaluronic acid) helps to heal and moisturize the tissues.

• Some people use oils (e.g., coconut or olive oil) on external tissues.
• Avoid using oils internally, as they can disrupt the natural balance.
• Oils may stain fabrics and are not compatible with latex condoms.
• Silicone lubricants can damage silicone dilators or vibrators.

Start with comfort:

• Use a good-quality lubricant.
• Take things slowly.
• Focus on non-penetrative sexual activity first.
• Local estrogen is the most effective treatment for vaginal dryness. This is prescription-only medication, and you should talk to your oncologist or primary care provider about this.
• Consider pelvic floor physiotherapy if pain continues.

Many people start with moisturizers and lubricants for more immediate relief. Longer-term approaches, such as pelvic floor therapy and mindfulness, can also help address underlying causes. For many, dryness and pain do improve over time, especially with the right support and a combination of strategies, although it can take time.

Yes. This is very common and can be related to physical, emotional, and hormonal changes.

Painful sexual touch or activity often impacts negatively on libido.

For many people, desire does return — but it may feel different. It often grows through connection, touch, and feeling safe.

• Reducing pressure to “perform”.
• Focusing on closeness and non-sexual touch.
• Getting enough rest and managing stress.
• Talking openly with your partner.
• Recognizing that desire often accompanies arousal. This is called responsive desire as opposed to spontaneous desire.

There are some quick strategies that may help right away, such as lubricants, moisturizers, local estrogen, and exercise.

There are other strategies that take time but support long-term improvement. These include pelvic floor physiotherapy, mindfulness, and couples counselling.

Intimacy can include:

• Touch
• Holding or cuddling
• Emotional connection
• Spending time together

Sex does not have to mean intercourse.

Start small:

• Focus on comfort and connection
• Communicate openly
• Take pressure off performance

Yes. Many people feel this way during and after cancer treatment. Treatment can bring physical changes that affect sexuality, as well as emotional changes like depression, anxiety, and loss of confidence. It’s very common to feel disconnected from your body or unsure of your sexual self during this time. These feelings can shift with support, time, and self-compassion.

This depends on your type of cancer and treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider about what’s right for you.

There are non-hormonal options available, including moisturizers, lubricants, and other supportive therapies.

This can depend on your treatment and how you’re feeling. It’s best to check with your healthcare provider.

In some cases, protection may be recommended — for example, to reduce risk of infection or exposure to chemotherapy. Check with your healthcare team.

If you are experiencing ongoing pain, dryness, or distress — or if something doesn’t feel right — it’s a good idea to ask for support.

You can start with:

• Your oncology team
• Family doctor or nurse practitioner
• A counsellor or therapist

They can guide you to the right support if needed.

Both of the following associations have a ‘find a provider’ function on their website.

• American Association of Sex Educators, Counsellors and Therapists (AASECT)
• The Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR)

Changes in sexual wellbeing after cancer are common. You are not alone — and there are ways to find support, comfort, connection, and wellbeing over time.

Cancer can transform so many things, including how you see yourself and how you feel in your clothes. After so much change, wearing clothing that helps you feel like your favourite version of the new you can be empowering.

I believe when you are feeling disconnected from your body, it is a perfect time to drape it in clothing that is going to make you feel put together. And maybe that means treating ourselves to an amazing pair of PJs or great underwear.

The key place to start is with defining who you are right now and how you want to show up. You want to get super clear on your ideal style and what that looks like (and what it doesn’t).

My recommendation is to start a vision board of outfits that you resonate with. Don’t worry about the models matching you or your body at all, just think of them as mannequins. Start with searching by your style icon or a piece of clothing you used to love to wear, then save all the pictures you pause on.

Once you have 12 or more, take notice of similarities and pieces that you may already own. Use these as your recipes for style. Try shopping your own closet with them first and then take them in store to try them on. Then ask a friend or family member to use a few words to try and describe the style of your style vision board. This will help you get a sense of whether people are describing your style in a way that you want to be seen.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for this unfortunately. It depends on whether you want to draw attention to your flat chest or balance it. The key thing to think about here is your focal points. Where do you want the eye to be drawn?

If you are looking to add volume at the chest, breast pockets, high necklines or horizontal lines are great. If you would like to draw the eye towards the shoulders, puff sleeves, shoulder pads or epaulettes will work well. Prefer to draw the eye towards the waist? Belts, details or rises that end in the smallest part of your torso work well to show off your natural waist. If your legs are your favourite asset, then I suggest a more streamlined pant or lighter colours or patterns on the bottom.

I recommend using diagonals and focal points to balance your tummy area. Princess seams, ruched shirts or wrap dress are all examples of diagonals built right into clothing. You can also add them on with a blazer, cardigan, or jacket. When left open, they create great verticals and diagonals that carve out where we want people to look.

You want to decide where you want people to look and place your details there. Whether it is an accent colour, or pattern or maybe a detail like a pocket or bow, you can decide where the eye is drawn in any of your outfits.

It is always amazing to hear how many of my clients don’t know their body shape even though we live and dress our bodies every day. So, the best advice I can give, is to get to know your new body and what shape it is, then decide if you want to emphasize that shape and follow the lines or use clothes to create the illusion of a different shape.

For example, a person with an A body shape could decide to emphasize that A shape with tight tops and pants or create more of an X body shape by adding more volume on the top half with a puff shoulder and high neckline. Whatever styles you choose, try fabrics that mimic and follow the lines of your body.

I recommend fabrics and styles with stretch and drape to allow your clothes to adapt well to a changing body. You should also find a local tailor that you can trust. There are so many tricks to allow waistbands to be taken in and out (think of the elastic they put in kid’s clothes). Tailors are worth their weight in gold.

I recommend building a core capsule of pieces you love and feel great in. One layering piece, two bottoms, three tops and four accessories that all work together effortlessly. The key thing is to ensure that all the pieces match in colour and your ideal style.

I recommend a professional colour analysis for anyone who wants to identify the specific tones, tints or shades of the colours that work best for you. But there are a few tips or tricks that you can try at home as well.

Colour analysis palettes are broken up into cold and warm colours, so you can look at whether gold or silver compliments you to try and decipher which side you may belong on.

Another tip is to use an online makeup site to try on lipsticks in various hues to see what harmonizes with you and what washes you out. You can also check the description if you use a foundation or concealer to see if it describes your skin as warm, cold or neutral.

The key thing is to find fabrics that breath and don’t cling.

• 100% Cotton (organic would be great if possible): Soft and breathable, helping to keep skin cool and irritation down.
• Linen: Has great airflow and natural moisture wicking. It is ideal if your skin reacts to heat and sweat.
• Bamboo/bamboo-derived fabrics: Naturally smooth and antibacterial, it is often very comfortable on sensitive skin.
• TENCEL/Lyocell/Modal: Hypoallergenic, soft, and breathable with good moisture management.
• Silk (washable is great too): Has a light smooth surface that minimizes friction and irritation.

You’ll want to avoid anything that ties or zips or buttons along the back. Wrap tops or loose layering pieces are great. If you find any pieces you love with buttons or frustrating closures, you can also take them to your tailor to have velcro or magnets applied to make them easier to get on or off.

To feel as comfortable as possible when wearing compression garments or medical devices you’ll want to focus on fabrics that drape or flow over them rather than restrict you. I also recommend looking for natural fabrics that breath since the compression garments generally do not.

The best way to have a successful shopping trip is to shop with intention and with a list. That means taking stock of what you have at home and what you need. It also means checking out the stores stock online beforehand to plan what you are going to try on.

I recommend trying a capsule wardrobe so you can buy less but wear more. A capsule wardrobe is a small wardrobe that mixes and matches and multitasks. Every piece works with every other piece, so you can close your eyes, pick two pieces and know that they work together.  

• Gentle cleanser labelled for sensitive skin or for eczema
  
• Non-irritating and pH balanced or neutral

• Use lukewarm or cool water (hot water strips natural oils). Keep showers brief (less than 10 minutes) to minimize skin irritation 

A cream is likely best for you right now. The type of moisturizer you choose (called the “vehicle”) matters because your skin may be more sensitive and dry during treatment. 

Understanding moisturizer types: 

• Gels – Lightest, may not provide enough moisture during treatment

• Lotions – Light to medium, absorb quickly but need frequent reapplication

• Creams – Thicker and more moisturizing, ideal for treatment-sensitive skin

• Ointments – Heaviest and most protective, but can feel greasy 

Creams typically provide the right balance of moisture and protection for treatment-sensitive skin without being too heavy for daily facial use. Look for cream-based products that are: 

• Hypoallergenic

• Fragrance free

• pH balanced or neutral

• Avoid anything labelled “anti-ageing” 

Fragrance-free and scent-free are not the same. Scent-free products may still contain masking fragrances, which can be irritating. Look for ‘fragrance-free’ on the label whenever possible. 

Moisturize immediately after patting your skin dry from bathing to lock in moisture. If you don’t bathe daily, moisturizing on dry skin is still beneficial. 

It’s important to note that oils don’t add moisture – they lock in existing hydration.

For best results, apply oils to slightly damp skin or use them in combination with a moisturizer. The exception is scalp care when you have hair, where oils can be used alone since applying cream to the scalp isn’t practical.

If you want to use oils to lock in moisture, look for ones that are fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores). Gentle, non-comedogenic options include: 

• Rosehip seed oil

• Shea butter

• Squalene
  
• Argan oil

• Grapeseed oil (cosmetic grade)

• Castor oil

• Baby oil

• Petroleum Jelly

• Bio-oil 

Coconut oil can be absorbed through skin and may affect cholesterol levels in some cases. It may cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to cocamidopropyl betaine. It’s better to avoid using cooking oils on your skin and opt for products specifically designed for skincare.  

Always test on a patch test on a small skin area that isn’t your face first. 

Treat your skin as if you have eczema. Hyaluronic acid is suitable for sensitive skin, but put aside other acids until 6 months after treatment ends. That includes retinol any other active ingredients.  

Wait until treatment is complete, or ensure the practitioner is trained to work with cancer patients using extremely gentle, non-irritating products. 

Toners are OK if your skin tolerates them and they’re not too drying. With a neutral cleanser and moisturizer, you may not need toner. 

Vitamin C serums are generally safe during cancer treatment. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and unlikely to cause problems. However, avoid Vitamin C serums mixed with retinol, as retinol can be drying and harsh on sensitive skin during treatment. 

• Start slowly – use every other day to test tolerance

• Choose lower concentrations (10-15%) and stabilized forms for gentler application
  
• Stop if you experience stinging, redness, or irritation

• Always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen

• For general comfort and sensitive scalps: 
  Bamboo, cotton, linen, and modal are excellent choices because they are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and allow for good airflow. Bamboo regulates temperature and is soft on sensitive skin, while cotton offers all-day comfort and linen is highly breathable. 

• For winter/cold weather: 
  Look for soft, breathable, and non-irritating fabrics like bamboo, fleece-lined cotton, and wool blends with a soft inner lining. Avoid scratchy wool or synthetic fibres that can cause irritation. A silk or satin lining inside hats can also help prevent friction and dryness.

• For maximum coolness: 
  Bamboo, cotton, linen, and modal are your best options. In terms of design, loose-fitting caps and lightweight scarves offer versatility, while turban-style wraps provide full coverage. 

Consider owning at least 3 to 5 head coverings to ensure you have enough options for different occasions while allowing for washing and drying. Sleep head coverings should be made from softer, more comfortable materials that provide warmth and minimise friction against the scalp, making cotton or bamboo ideal choices. Like pyjamas, it’s important for hygiene to reserve specific items for sleep to reduce transfer of dirt and sweat from daytime activities to bed. 

For daily wear, a variety of styles, including caps, scarves, turbans, and hats, can be beneficial. These should be made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that keep the scalp cool and comfortable while providing coverage. 

Head coverings can be purchased from various sources, both online and in stores. Most wig boutiques will also carry head coverings and many other accessories. You can also find head coverings on specialty websites that cater specifically to those undergoing treatment. Cancer support organisations often provide resources or even free caps. Department stores and local boutiques may also carry suitable headwear. Additionally, some hospitals/cancer centres provide head coverings or purchasing resources. When selecting a head covering, consider comfort, material, and style to find the best option for your needs. 

Ideally, you should wash them every 2 to 3 days, especially if you sweat or wear them for extended periods; daily wear may necessitate more frequent washing. The fabric type can also influence washing frequency—cotton and bamboo can be laundered more often without damage, while delicate fabrics like silk may require less frequent cleaning. Additionally, since chemotherapy can make the skin more sensitive, it’s important to use gentle, hypoallergenic detergents and avoid fabric softeners that could irritate the scalp. If you notice any odours, visible dirt, or signs of irritation on your scalp, wash your head coverings immediately. 

A sleep cap is designed for nighttime use and is made from soft breathable material. They help keep the head warm while collecting hair that is coming out and protecting the scalp from friction against pillows. 

Unless it is specifically listed as having UV protection you should wear sunscreen under a head covering because UV rays can penetrate these materials. The scalp may be more sensitive during and after chemotherapy, increasing the risk of sunburn. If you plan to be outside for an extended period, sunscreen adds an essential layer of protection, providing peace of mind, particularly if you adjust or remove your head covering throughout the day. 

Keep sun protection top of mind by wearing a waterproof sunscreen and/or a swim cap, wide-brimmed hat or head covering with UV protection. 

Wear a head covering like a simple cap or wig grip band underneath. 

The square knot (or reef knot) is recommended due to its simplicity and security. To tie a square knot, start by positioning the scarf on your head so that the ends hang evenly down your back or to the sides, depending on your style preference. Cross the right end of the scarf over the left end, then bring the right end under the left and pull both ends tight to form the first part of the knot. Next, take the left end and cross it over the right end, bringing the left end under the right and pulling both ends tight again to complete the knot. The square knot is known for staying tied, making it suitable for all-day wear, and it can be easily adjusted to tighten or loosen the fit as needed. Additionally, the knot lies flat against your head, preventing bulkiness and discomfort. 

Yes, at minimum the top of the ears should be covered to create a more comfortable and polished look. 

Yes! Search terms like “scarf tying tutorial for cancer patients,” “how to tie a scarf for hair loss,” and “headscarf tying techniques for chemotherapy.” Other effective phrases include “chemo scarf styles,” “head covering tutorials for cancer,” and “easy scarf styles for cancer patients.” Utilizing these search terms on platforms like YouTube or Google can help you find a variety of helpful tutorials tailored to your needs. 

• Blend until colour matches your natural scalp colour

• Use a disposable sponge for smoother blending

• Limit makeup on forehead to reduce stark transitions 

Yes. Foundation helps eyebrow pencil cling to skin. Apply foundation first, let dry, then draw in eyebrows.  

Yes. This creates a lighter, more hydrating base that’s comfortable on dry or sensitive skin. It may reduce coverage, so experiment to find your balance. 

Many prefer foundation first to create an even base, then concealer to spot-correct areas needing extra coverage. 

Apply concealer dots from inner to outer corner of eye with clean finger, applicator, or disposable sponge, then blend gently. 

• Purple: brightens dullness, evens yellow skin

•  Yellow: conceals dark purple or blue discolouration

• Green: hides red blemishes, blotchiness, sun spots

• Peach: cancels dark circles (light skin tones)

• Orange: cancels dark circles (darker skin tones) 

To prevent makeup from melting: 

• Press translucent powder with cotton round to absorb oils

• Blot oil before applying powder 
• Consider lightweight primer

• Ensure sunscreen and moisturiser are fully absorbed first 

Foundation provides the most coverage and is best for evening out skin tone and covering discolouration. 

BB creams (Beauty Balm) offer lighter coverage and often include moisturiser, sunscreen, and skin-caring ingredients. They’re ideal when you want a natural look with some coverage and added skin benefits. 

CC creams (Colour Correcting) focus on evening out skin tone and correcting discolouration with light to medium coverage. They’re useful when you want to address redness or uneven colour without heavy coverage. 

During treatment, BB and CC creams can be gentler options for your skin since they’re typically more hydrating and less heavy than traditional foundation. Choose products that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and pH balanced, and use whichever feels most comfortable on your sensitive skin. 

No, it’s not a good idea. It’s better to use them separately to avoid diluting the sunscreen’s potency and losing protection. 

You likely won’t use enough foundation for adequate coverage, and areas like ears and neck would be missed. It’s best to use sunscreen, let it absorb in the skin and then apply foundation. You may also like a mineral sunscreen powder for re-application over makeup. 

It’s a personal preference. Use photos where you liked your eyebrows as a reference guide. 

Look for a universal taupe pencil – a slightly warm tone that’s not too grey or silvery. 

Rub the pencil on the back of your hand to warm and soften it. 

No, but be very gentle when removing makeup to protect delicate regrowth. 

No, procedures that create open wounds aren’t recommended during treatment. 

Its effectiveness isn’t scientifically proven. If you try it, do a patch test on skin first, avoiding eyes. Ask your healthcare team if unsure. 

Yes! Follow proper hygiene, don’t apply to waterline, and sharpen pencils between uses or spray isopropyl alcohol on the tip to disinfect it. 

Avoid eye makeup while eyes are watering. Focus on brows and blush for facial dimension. 

These aren’t recommended. Glue can irritate sensitive skin, and magnetic lashes may require excessive rubbing to remove. 

No, but be gentle removing it. To protect your lashes:

• Avoid waterproof formulas

• Use gentle remover (see eye makeup remover question below) 

Any gentle cleanser labelled for sensitive skin works. It should be non-irritating and non-oily. Use a cotton pad, hold on eyelid for a few seconds, then wipe downwards from inner to outer corner. 

During treatment, lipstick is OK for 3 months if applied with Q-tips or disposable applicators. 

Using Q-tips or disposable applicators to apply lipstick is the best way to keep your lipstick clean. If applying directly, spray with isopropyl alcohol after each use. 

Ask your pharmacist for products specifically formulated for severely dry skin/lips. 

Ask your medical team or pharmacist for mouth rinse recommendations – they often have samples. 

• Use pump dispensers when possible

• Use spatulas to remove products instead of fingers (and no double-dipping with spatulas)

• Close lids tightly after use

• Never blow on applicators

• Don’t share products

• Test new products on hands/wrists, not face

• Follow expiry dates 

Regular brushes and sponges hold bacteria. Use disposable applicators or clean fingers to apply makeup during treatment. You can find disposable applicators online, at dollar stores, or in the makeup sections of large retailers. 

• Mascara: 1 month once opened

• Most other products: 3 months with proper hygiene 

Sunscreen and hand sanitizer become less effective after expiry. Throw away makeup with separation or off-odours, even before the expiry date. 

Yes. Remove with oily, acetone-free remover. Use petroleum jelly instead of cutting cuticles. Avoid acrylics (bacteria risk) and wear rubber gloves for chores.

Ask if professionals are trained for cancer patients. Avoid anything causing breaks or bleeding. Skip acrylics due to infection risk. Do not push back, cut, or push down cuticles. Only basic nail polish application is recommended—avoid other specialty services.

Petroleum jelly can be applied to nails to moisturize and act as a barrier cream, helping protect them from everyday damage. You can also consider using a hydro-soluble nail strengthener. Ask your healthcare team or pharmacist for recommendations on products specifically designed to strengthen brittle nails during treatment.

Yes, as long as skin isn’t scratched or broken and you tolerate it.

Recovery timelines:

Fingernails: Nails grow one millimetre per month, so full recovery takes six to twelve months. Bumpy ridges are from treatment interrupting nail growth—they’ll grow out normally.

Toenails: Toenails grow half a millimetre per month, so full regrowth takes twelve to eighteen months, especially the big toe.

• Gentle compression to reduce swelling
• Front closure for easier wear
• Seamless, soft fabrics to prevent irritation

• Typically 2 to 6 weeks, or as advised by your surgeon
• Post-surgical camisoles offer support and help manage surgical drains

• Yes! Many post-op camisoles have built-in pockets to hold and secure drainage tubes comfortably.

Try a leisure bra:

• No underwire
• Soft, breathable fabric
• Gentle support to reduce tension and discomfort

• Yes, the terms can be used interchangeably. They are designed to replicate the shape and feel of a natural breast.

• No. It’s a solid, molded silicone form with a soft, realistic texture.

• Temporary forms (cotton/foam): lightweight and ideal for day and night
• Silicone forms: heavier and realistic; these best for daytime wear after healing

• Yes! Lightweight or swim-friendly prostheses are available for active lifestyles.

• Standard silicone: $200–$400
• Lightweight/specialty: $300–$600
• Custom-made: Up to $1,000+

Check if your provincial health plan or private insurance offers coverage.

• No. Fitters usually have forms you can try during your fitting. (You can always call and ask this in advance of your fitting).

• Post-surgical bras are for healing; soft, stretchy, wire-free, often with drain pockets
• Mastectomy bras are for everyday wear; includes pockets to hold prostheses

• Front-closure, wire-free bras with light compression
• Post-op: soft and adjustable
• After healing: padded bras or those with pockets for added symmetry

No. Comfort is key.
Consider:

• Leisure bras
• Camisoles with built-in bras
• Soft bralettes or seamless camisoles

• Yes! Specialty stores offer low-back, strapless, or front-closure options, some with built-in or removable prostheses.

• Use contoured or asymmetrical forms with tapered wings to fill underarm areas and smooth side bulges

• Pocketed nightgowns or PJs for temporary breast forms
• Sleep bras (soft and pocketed)
• Camisoles with built-in shelf bras
• Add sewn-in pockets to your favourite sleepwear

• Rinse with lukewarm water
• Use mild soap and a soft cloth
• Rinse thoroughly and air dry
• Store in a breathable container

• Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent
• Wash by hand or use a lingerie bag on a gentle cycle
• Avoid bleach, fabric softener, or hot water

• Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers
• Wear loose, soft clothing (cotton or bamboo)
• Avoid sun exposure; use a mineral sunscreen if you must put sunscreen near your radiation area
• Cool compresses and thermal spring water spray can help soothe irritation
• Ask your doctor about topical steroids if irritation occurs

• Prosthetic nipples (reusable, adhesive silicone)
• 3D nipple tattoos (semi-permanent)
• Surgical reconstruction
• Stick-on temporary tattoos
• Bras or prostheses with built-in nipples

• Specialty lingerie or mastectomy boutiques
• Medical supply stores
• Some large hospitals or department stores

• Yes, in Canada, it may qualify. Keep your receipts and check with CRA or a tax advisor.