Suncare during Radiation Treatment
As a general rule, you don’t want any sun exposure on a treatment site while receiving radiation treatment. Always check with your radiation oncologist before using sunscreen if you are undergoing radiation. Your doctor may not want you to put sunscreen or any because the skin is prone to injury
General Sun Protection tips during cancer treatment
Use a sunscreen that is specially formulated for your face that delivers both UVA and UVB protection in a broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Apply sun protection daily and liberally – a dollop about the size of a golf ball – to all exposed skin, such as the lips, ears, scalp, sides and back of neck, and exposed chest.
Get in the habit of applying sun protection every morning, about 20 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply often – about every two hours.
Remember that you’re still exposed to UVA/UVB rays even in the shade.
Stay inside during the intense-sun hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Though remember: If you’re indoors, windows offer no protection against UVA rays.
Don’t forget to wear a hat – preferably one with a wide brim of about three inches.
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Simple Everyday Makeup Tutorial
“I feel empowered to try different makeup and techniques that will help me with some of the side effects I am experiencing. I don’t feel as scared or overwhelmed – I am eager to try them!”
Lucy N., Workshop Participant
Prefer direct information from a professional?
Try one of our workshops today!
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Shaving & Men’s Skincare Workshop
Physical side effects sometimes catch us by surprise. Cancer treatment can bring unexpected changes to your appearance—dry, discoloured skin, hair loss, irritation from shaving, nail changes — but that doesn’t mean you have to just put up with them.
Real advice in a private setting
Our Look Good Feel Better Shaving & Men’s Skincare Workshop is designed to help you take control of these changes with simple, effective skincare, shaving and grooming techniques tailored specifically for men facing cancer.
This free, online workshop is held in a comfortable, private setting where you can listen, learn, and participate as much—or as little—as you’d like. You’ll also receive a complimentary kit of skincare and shaving products to experiment with before and during treatment.
About this Workshop
Even if you’ve never paid much attention to your facial skin before, small changes can make a big difference in how you look and feel. In this session, we’ll cover:
Managing hair loss – What to expect, how to care for your scalp, and what happens when hair grows back
Caring for skin during treatment – Avoid dry, irritated or painful skin with simple steps that take just a few minutes a day
Shaving with less irritation – Pros and cons of using a regular razor vs an electric razor during treatment and how to shave your face (or scalp) safely when your skin is more sensitive.
Restoring eyebrows—yes, they matter. We’ll share a simple technique to restore the look of brows
Who is this workshop for?
This session is ideal for:
- Men who are currently undergoing cancer treatment or have completed treatment in the past year
- Anyone facing cancer who would like support around these specific appearance-related side effects
Maybe you didn’t sign up for this workshop…
and someone who cares about you did it on your behalf. You’re not alone. If you’re here because a loved one suggested it, take that as a sign of their support.
A no-pressure, practical approach
Prefer to leave your camera off?
No problem! Feel free to simply listen. You can try out the tips whenever it suits you.
Whether you’re here for skincare advice, scalp care, questions about hair loss, or because someone you love felt that you might benefit from it, we’re so glad you are here. This workshop is all about giving you the tools to look and feel better and move forward with confidence.
What our participants have to say
” Before treatment, I was worried about hair loss. I didn’t expect that issues with skin on my face and scalp would be the most challenging chemo side effect. The advice in this workshop helped.”
- Joseph S., Workshop Participant
“Actively taking care of myself helped me regain control – I didn’t want to be defined as sick.”
- Adam P., Workshop Participant
Join us for a workshop led by industry experts, tailored for men facing all cancers
Register today!
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The Basics
The Three Basic Steps Are:
Step 1 – Cleanse
A facial cleanser will remove dirt and dry flaky skin and help stimulate circulation.
Look for products that say GENTLE, for SENSITIVE SKIN or for ECEZMA
Ideally, use a facial cleanser twice a day – morning and night
You can use a gentle body wash for the rest of your body
Have flaky skin, black heads or ingrown hairs?
Consider a gentle exfoliator once a week to get a deeper clean. Use it right before cleansing to leave the skin looking smoother, clearer and brighter. Again – look for a gentle option during treatment and try testing on a small area first.
Step 2 – Moisturizer
Moisturizer is hands down the most straightforward and effective way to keep your skin in top shape – apply after washing and patting dry your face.
While most men generally have oilier skin than women, treatment can have an drying effect your skin, so staying hydrated (both inside and out!) is fundamental.
Don’t forget LIP BALM – your lips may be extra dry or chapped during treatment. Keep things simple with a hypoallergenic lip balm with an SPF to keep you moisturized and prevent burning during the day.
Step 3 – Sunscreen
This is an absolute must-have!
One of the most prevalent side-effects of treatment is sun sensitivity
It is essential to wear daily sunscreen protection with a minimum of SPF30
Some Extras to Consider:
Hand Cream
Hydration is a key element in maintaining your skin during this time. Keep a hand cream by your sink.
Body Cream & Lotion
Having a body moisturizer will more than earn its place in your daily care while undergoing treatment. Dryness, irritation and possible skin cracking are all things you want to avoid so laying on the lotion is more than worth the effort. Apply after you shower or bathe, and throughout the day as needed.
Tinted Moisturizer & Concealer
There are some great tinted products out there that are very light-weight and natural. These products help minimize any redness, uneven skin tone and/or dark circles under the eyes. Always look for fragrance free hypo-allergenic products when picking up your grooming essentials as treatment can make even the most robust of skin a little more sensitive.
Experiencing side effects?
Learn how to minimize and manage them in our Shaving & Men’s Skincare Workshop.
Let’s navigate this together
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Electric Razors or Wet Shaving During Treatment
During treatment your skin may be more dry, red, or itchy and will be more susceptible to cuts, bruising and infection, so it’s important to examine your shaving regimen.
Electric Razors
Many care teams recommend electric razors during cancer treatment. They’re less likely to nick the skin and will help avoid infections, especially when your skin is extra sensitive or your immune system is weakened.
Razor Blades and Wet Shaving
If you prefer to stick with a traditional razor and a wet shave, read our tips to help make it as safe and soothing as possible. Don’t forget to ask your medical team’s advice about shaving while in treatment.
Tips for Shaving with a Razor During Treatment
Shower before shaving or apply a warm towel/face cloth. This warms the skin, opening the pores and softening the hair cuticles.
Apply your chosen sensitive skin shaving gel or foam, ideally using a shaving brush, and make sure you generate a warm, rich protective lather. (Using a shaving bush softens and lifts the facial hair off the face helping to maintain good levels of hydration and lubrication).
Use light, gentle strokes, letting your razor do the work.
Facial hair grows in many directions so you’ll shave both with and against the grain. Shave in the direction that feels most comfortable.
Rinse your blades often.
After Shaving
Rinse with cold water. This will remove shaving cream residue, tighten pores and cool the skin.
Moisturize the whole face and neck area with a mild moisturizer.
Old dogs can learn new tricks.
Learn comfortable shaving techniques in our Shaving & Men’s Skincare Workshop.
Let’s navigate this together
Join a community that understands. Receive expert advice, useful resources, and compassionate tips throughout your cancer journey in the LGFB newsletter
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Sun Care and Safety during Cancer Treatment
Radiation and chemotherapy treatments, as well as some medications, can increase your susceptibility to sunburn and skin damage. Sun care is especially important when you are undergoing treatment.
Receiving Radiation?
As a general rule, no sun exposure is a good idea when you’re receiving radiation treatment if the site of the treatment is exposed skin. Your doctor may not want you to put sunscreen or any cream on while you’re receiving radiation treatment as the skin is prone to injury at that time.
Sun Safety During Treatment
Apply sun protection daily and liberally – a dollop about the size of a golf ball – to all exposed skin, such as the lips, ears, scalp, sides, and back of neck
Get in the habit of applying sun protection every morning, about 20 to 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply often – about every two hours
Remember that you’re still exposed to UVA/UVB rays even in shady areas. If you’re indoors, windows do not protect against UVA rays
Stay inside during the intense-sun hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wear clothing especially formulated with SPF when you have to go out into strong sun.
Have more skin-related questions?
Find practical answers in our Shaving & Men’s Skincare Workshop.
Let’s navigate this together
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Treatment over? Here are some product options…
Plump it up
Let’s talk about Hyaluronic Acid
If you've noticed your skin getting drier as you age, or that's just your skin type, one active ingredient to be on the lookout for is hyaluronic acid, especially in a serum.
The molecule, famous for holding 1000 times its weight in water, helps bring moisture to the surface of your skin. In the right formulation, it can produce immediate plumping effects, leaving skin looking dewy.
But for folks with very dry skin or who live in a dry climate, Dr. Julia Carroll, dermatologist and co-owner of Compass Medical, suggests layering moisturizer on top of your hyaluronic acid serum to seal it in and provide a barrier to moisture loss.
Brighten & Protect
Vitamin C is a workhorse ingredient and antioxidant
Helps improve uneven skin tone, fine lines, dullness and rough texture
Helps prevent oxidative stress caused by free radicals
"Antioxidant molecules help to neutralize these harmful atoms by giving up some of their own electrons. Think of it as nature’s “off” switch." – Dr. Vincent Richer, Medical & Cosmetic Dermatologist at Pacific Derm
Serum or Moisturizer
A serum and moisturizer combo can enhance your skincare routine —but what is the difference?
Serums are formulated to penetrate deeply into the skin to deliver targeted active ingredients. [This means they’re thinner and lighter to their creamier counterparts and also a more powerful delivery method]. Moisturizers help to reinforce the surface of the skin and work to increase hydration." – Dr. Arisa Ortiz, Harvard-trained & Board Certified Dermatologist
Layering Skincare Products
Whether you are a product minimalist or maximalist, the order you apply your skincare matters—both for your skin’s health and the products’ efficacy.
For the less-is-more folks, keep it simple: cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen.
If your routine is more robust: cleanser, toner, serum(s), eye cream, moisturizer, face oil, sunscreen.
Still experiencing side effects?
Get expert advice from an onco-dermatologist in our Advanced Skincare Workshop.
Let’s navigate this together
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Before Radiation
Start A Routine:
If you haven’t started radiation yet, now is an excellent time to start a skincare routine. It will help protect your moisture barrier and give you a good starting point.
Follow these simple steps:
Cleanse
Moisturize
Protect
Make sure you choose products that are labeled with words like:
Gentle
Fragrance-free
ph-balancing
For eczema
During Radiation Treatment
Here are some easy-to-follow tips to help your skin during treatment:
- Keep showers or baths short and use lukewarm water; avoid extreme temperatures.
- Use gentle, fragrance free and ph-balancing products daily to cleanse and moisturize.
- Protect your skin from sun because treatment areas will be extra-sensitive.
- Cover the treated area with sun-protective clothing or items you cannot see through when you hold them up to the light. If you can’t cover the area, ask your care team about sunscreen options.
Be Gentle with the Treatment Area
- Don’t rub, massage or scratch the area.
- Avoid using facecloths. The friction can damage the skin.
- Use a soft towel to pat skin just enough to remove water – don’t rub completely dry.
- Prevent rubbing and friction by wearing loose-fitting clothing, ideally cotton or other soft, breathable fabrics.
Things to Consider
- Save shaving or use hair removal creams for after treatment. Don’t try to remove hair from a treatment area.
- Consider products with thermal water, which have been shown to reduce radiation’s negative impacts on the skin.
- Keep areas under your breast dry to avoid fungal infections in the folds.
Cornstarch (not talcum powder) or an antifungal powder can help manage itchiness and redness.
Experiencing skin side effects?
Learn how to minimize and manage them in our Advanced Skincare Workshop.
Let’s navigate this together
Join a community that understands. Receive expert advice, useful resources, and compassionate tips throughout your cancer journey in the LGFB newsletter
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Advanced Skincare Workshop
Advances in cancer treatment have led to more people experiencing skin-related side effects, both during and after treatment. In this workshop, expert Onco-Dermatologists share simple steps to help minimize and manage common skin and nail issues.
About this workshop
What you will learn:
How evolving cancer treatments can cause new and different side effects
Practical steps to help minimize and manage common skin, scalp, and nail concerns during and after treatment
Step-by-step guidance from an Onco-Dermatologist
Topics Covered in Advance Skincare include:
Simple skincare and suncare routines
Scalp care
Nail Health
Managing dry, itchy, and irritated skin
Acne and rashes
Skin recovery post-treatment
This workshop is available Online
Join us!
- This workshop delivered via a Q&A with our medical professional, and is offered approximately four times a year.
- It is roughly an hour and fifteen (1:15) minutes in length and is delivered over Zoom.
- Be sure to add your questions on the registration form!
Who should attend this workshop?
This workshop is available for anyone who is…
- Currently in treatment
- Post-treatment but may still be experiencing side-effects impacting their skin, scalp, or nails
- This workshop is designed to address skin concerns wherever people are in their cancer continuum
What Our Participants Have to Say
“Just knowing others are going through the same symptoms gave me hope.”
- Workshop Participant
“This webinar was delivered beautifully. I liked how participants’ questions were answered and things were explained at length.”
- Workshop Participant
Let’s navigate this together
Join a community that understands. Receive expert advice, useful resources, and compassionate tips throughout your cancer journey in the LGFB newsletter
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Skincare, Makeup, & Hair Workshop
Discover practical ways to manage the physical side effects of cancer treatment on your skin, hair, and face, including skincare, makeup, hair loss, wigs and other head coverings. Connect with a community who gets it.
About this workshop
What you will learn:
Counteract side effects such as discolouration and dry skin
Practice simple makeup steps to add colour back to your face
Makeup hygiene and sun safety
Find tips and techniques for managing the loss of brows and lashes
Caring for your scalp during and after treatment
What to consider if selecting a wig
All types of head coverings including wigs
Pros and cons between synthetic and human hair wigs
The information and dialogues are designed to help you:
Manage the physical side effects of cancer treatment with clear, practical guidance
Connect with others who may understand what you are going through
Understand what to expect during treatment
Prepare for treatment to help minimize potential side effects
Feel more like yourself again
This workshop is available IN-PERSON.
IN-PERSON
- The IN-PERSON workshop is 2 hours long.
- Called Skincare, Makeup & Hair, it combines both our Skincare & Makeup and our Wigs & Hair Alternatives workshops.
- In-person workshops are only available in select locations around Canada.
Who should attend this workshop?
This workshop is available to anyone who is about to start cancer treatment, is currently in treatment, or has completed treatment in the last 12 months and would like information about or support around this topic.
The Confidence Kit
Participants in the Skincare & Cosmetics workshop receive a free kit of skincare and makeup products.
These products are generously donated to Look Good Feel Better and meet the regulations set forth by Health Canada.
These products are for educational purposes, so you may practice the techniques explained in the workshop.
- You will receive the kit in the workshop.
What Our Participants Have to Say
“This workshop was so useful because it wasn’t just information. It ‘normalized’ the techniques to cope with cancer & treatment related challenges to appearance. Yes, wear makeup and take care of your skin not just in spite of cancer and treatments but here is how to do it well and safely!”
- Joan L., Workshop Participant
“The volunteers were excellent and so caring. It’s the first time I’ve laughed in awhile.”
- Joan M., Workshop Participant
Participating in our workshops
97%
of Workshop Participants
would recommend our workshops to another person facing cancer.
32%
of Our Participants
feel somewhat confident BEFORE our workshops.
89.1%
of Our Participants
reported feeling somewhat confident or confident about their appearance AFTER our workshops.
Let’s navigate this together
Join a community that understands. Receive expert advice, useful resources, and compassionate tips throughout your cancer journey in the LGFB newsletter