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 supportive setting
Our Look Good Feel Better Shaving & Men’s Skincare Workshop is designed to help you take control of these changes with a simple, effective skincare regimen and shaving and grooming techniques tailored specifically for men facing cancer.
This free workshop is offered both online and in person at select locations and is held in a comfortable, supportive setting. You can listen, learn, and participate as much—or as little—as you’d like. Participants also receive a complimentary kit of men’s skincare and shaving products to try before and during treatment.
About the Shaving & Men's Skincare 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 a simple routine 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.
Protecting your skin from the sun – We’ll share simple ways to guard sensitive skin from the sun during and after treatment.
Who is the Shaving & Men’s Skincare 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 stay in the background?
No problem! No matter if you’re attending online or in person, you can simply listen and absorb the tips at your own pace, and try them out whenever it suits you.
Whether you’re here for men’s skincare advice, scalp care, guidance on hair loss, or because someone you love suggested you might benefit from the workshop, we’re so glad you are here. This session is all about giving you the tools to move forward with confidence, in whatever way works best for you.
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 for the Shaving & Men's Skincare workshop today!
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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Bras & Prostheses Workshop
Whether you’ve recently had a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or breast reconstruction—or are still exploring your options—you may be wondering what comes next. How will your body change? What will feel comfortable? Join us to learn about breast prostheses, bras, post-surgical garments, swimsuits and more.
About this Workshop
What you will learn:
Questions to ask before breast cancer treatment and/or pre-surgery (e.g. lumpectomies, mastectomies, or breast reconstruction)
Supportive clothing to wear post-surgery and during treatment – Bras, camisoles, and breast forms designed for comfort and healing
How a fitting works – What to expect, when to go, and how to find the right size
Body changes during recovery – Possible impacts on sizing and when to introduce different types of apparel or breast forms
Breast prostheses and partial forms – Options that help restore balance and boost confidence
Financial coverage – Where to look for funding (both public and private), insurance options, and community support
The information and dialogues are designed to help you:
Navigate your choices with confidence
Walk you through your options in a supportive and welcoming space
Gain knowledge in post-surgical camisoles, breast prostheses, and mastectomy bras
Feel comfortable with every day solutions
The Bras & Prostheses workshop is available ONLINE
Who should attend this workshop?
Anyone affected by breast cancer who wants information about breast prostheses, breast forms, post-op garments and what to expect before, during or after breast cancer surgery and/or treatment.
What our participants have to say about the Bras & Prostheses workshop
” It was great to learn about all the options I have…some of which I didn’t know about or hadn’t even thought of. Very helpful, empowering, supportive info at a time when some of us are feeling uncertain and self-conscious. “
- Audrey R., Workshop Participant
Want to Learn More About Post-Mastectomy Bras and Breast Forms?
Register for the Bras & Prostheses Workshop today!
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
Newsletter Form
I’ll never forget my first interaction with Look Good Feel Better (LGFB). It was about 20 years ago, when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer. Going to the LGFB workshop was my best day at the cancer centre. Most of my time there wasn’t cheerful or enjoyable, but my experience with LGFB was just lovely. The people were so kind and helpful, and it was great fun. I look back on it fondly.
I got diagnosed with cancer again last year. This time it was what doctors called a “complex case”: three distinct cancers – endometrial, ovarian, and fallopian – in three different places.
One of the first things I did was to connect with LGFB again and sign up for a workshop. Getting to attend the workshop again, after all these years, was a shiny, happy moment in my cancer journey. Who knew that chemotherapy could include highlights? It was the same supportive experience with people who were genuinely interested in helping me feel my best. I loved how they now provide a helpful booklet with makeup tips, so I didn’t have to take notes during the workshop.
The workshop isn’t really about makeup or skincare for me, though. It’s about the opportunity to chat with other people going through the same experience. And to have a good time – for example, everyone had a good giggle with some of the ladies modelling their wigs and making wonderful faces in the mirror. Sometimes, we just need a day where we’re thinking about nothing other than having fun. There’s no other agenda. It was so helpful in terms of my spirit – just enhancing my mood and joy. It’s more beneficial than therapy or a self-help group for me. LGFB cultivates such a supportive, uplifting environment. It was a very restorative afternoon – such a gift, truly. Whoever came up with this idea deserves immense credit.
Cancer and its treatment affect us all so differently. They can tell you what to expect during chemotherapy, but you never really know what’s coming your way until it’s there. It’s the same way with how cancer treatment’s side effects impact our appearance and self-esteem – it’s so individual. We may respond with acknowledgement or disbelief or rejection or anger. There’s a plethora of possible responses.
In a way, I think it comes down to your willingness to accept your own reality. My personal attitude is one of total acceptance. “It is what it is” – that’s my mantra. I look at whatever’s happening in my life – cancer treatment, or a broken shoelace, or a scenario in one of my past careers in education and social work – and I assess what’s going on and how to deal with it. How best can I move forward? What’s my next step? What’s the most useful and functional response to a situation? Is there a possibility to enhance the situation, to make it better?
That approach has served me well in life, and it’s serving me well now. I change the things I can change, and accept the things I can’t. I like to be realistic about what’s possible.
These days, I’m looking forward to what’s next. I’ve finished my treatment and I’m enjoying being retired. I love to make art – I also teach watercolour classes – and to spend time with my grandchildren. I’m looking forward to getting back to travelling, and specifically to going on a cruise. I just want to be on a ship somewhere warm. I love cruising, it’s my favourite thing. No cooking, no cleaning, just art classes, ocean air, and leisurely afternoon naps. And if I can’t be on a ship just yet, I’ll take an afternoon like the one LGFB gave me any day – one with kindness, laughter, and light.
Hair and Brow Loss During Cancer Treatment
The loss of hair and brows can be just as distressing for men as it is for women, especially for men who have always had a full head of hair. Although it is currently a style statement for some men to have shaved heads, this may not be your personal preference. Hair loss or thinning may or may not happen depending on your specific cancer treatment.
Remember, hair loss is almost always temporary.
Managing Hair Loss
Always comb hair gently and use a mild shampoo (but not a baby shampoo).
As hair starts to thin, consider cutting it short or even having it neatly trimmed by a professional stylist. This can help if your hair becomes thin or patchy.
Don’t shave your head to the scalp. This can cause irritation and potentially cuts or nicks that could lead to infection.
When you’ve lost your hair, your scalp may become drier. Gently massage your scalp with your facial moisturizer to make it feel more comfortable and increase circulation to your stressed hair follicles. Caring for your scalp will greatly reduce sensitivity and itchiness.
There are many hat and cap styles today for sports, sun, cold, rain, wind, etc., to help you find something to cover and protect your head.
Eyebrows
Follow these steps:
- Hold a pencil vertically along the outside of your nostril and inner corner of your eye. Make a dot above your eye at this line, right on the brow bone. This is the inner edge of your brow.
- Hold the pencil vertically across your iris (the coloured part of your eye) and again make a dot above the eye, just above or on the brow bone. This is where your natural arch occurs.
- Hold your pencil at an angle beginning at the outside edge of your nostril, lined up with the outside edge of the eye. This is where your brow should end. Draw another dot.
4. Connect these dots with a series of gentle, arching, feathery strokes to mimic the look of hair. Concentrate on fullness closer to the inner edge, thinning as you go outwards.
Another option to consider, particularly suited to men who wear glasses, is to opt for a thicker framed pair that’ll give the illusion of a fuller brow.
Hair Regrowth
Depending on the type and duration of your treatment, your hair will start to reappear at a rate of about ½ of an inch a month. Once your hair grows back, it may be different than before your treatment due to the absence or alteration of pigments. As the pigment cells return to normal, hair should go back to its original colour and texture.
Experiencing side effects?
Learn how to minimize and manage them 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
Newsletter Form
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
Join a community that understands. Receive expert advice, useful resources, and compassionate tips throughout your cancer journey in the LGFB newsletter
Newsletter Form
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
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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Why Sun Protection Really Matters During Treatment
The sun can mess with your skin any time of the year, but if you’re going through cancer treatment—like chemo or radiation—it’s a bigger deal. Some meds and treatments make your skin extra sensitive, which means you can get sunburned way easier, and the damage can be worse.
Sun Safety During Radiation Treatment
If you’re getting radiation, it’s best to keep the treated area completely out of the sun. In fact, don’t put anything on that area—not even sunscreen—unless your radiation doctor says it’s okay. The skin around the treatment site is super delicate and can get hurt easily, so always double-check with your doctors/nurses first.
Everyday Sun Protection Tips (Even If You’re Not in the Sun Much)
Here’s how to protect your skin like a pro:
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen for your face (SPF 30 or higher). Look for one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Cover up every exposed spot—your lips, ears, scalp (especially if you’ve lost hair), neck, chest… all of it. You want A LOT – think a golf-ball-sized amount.
Make sunscreen part of your morning routine—put it on about 20–30 minutes before you go outside
Reapply every two hours, especially if you're sweating or outside for a long time
Shade doesn’t block UV rays—you can still get sun exposure even if you’re chilling under a tree or umbrella
Try to stay indoors during peak sun hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. And remember, UVA rays go through windows, so indoor sun isn’t totally safe either.
Rock a hat – The best kind is one with a wide brim (about 3 inches) to protect your face and neck
The Difference Between UVA and UVB Rays (Why It Matters)
- UVA rays go deep into your skin. They cause fast tanning, wrinkles, and can lead to skin cancer. Most UVA rays (about 95%) get through the ozone layer.
- UVB rays hit the surface of your skin and cause sunburns. They’re also a major cause of skin cancer. The ozone blocks most UVB rays, but some still get through.
Source: Health Canada
You’re not alone in this.
Connect with others who get what you’re going through in our Teens 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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Before You Put On or Take Off Makeup or Skincare Products
Wash Your Hands
- Always wash your hands with warm water and antibacterial soap before putting on or removing makeup or skincare.
- Dry them with a clean towel or a disposable paper towel.
- If you’re out and about, keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your backpack or purse so you can clean your hands wherever you are.
Use Disposable Applicators
- Instead of using your regular brushes or sponges, go with clean disposable ones like cotton balls, pads, or swabs.
- Only use them once, then throw them away. You can usually find these at dollar stores or places like Walmart.
- Once you’re done with treatment, you can go back to using your regular makeup brushes—just remember to clean them often with gentle soap or brush cleaner.
How to Keep Your Makeup Germ-Free
Follow these Tips:
Try using makeup that comes in a pump bottle instead of jars (that way, you don’t have to dip your fingers in)
If you do use products in a jar, use a clean spatula to scoop it out (don’t use your fingers)
Always close your makeup lids tightly right after you use them
Don’t dip the same applicator back into your makeup after it’s touched your face
Never blow on your brushes, powders, or other makeup products—it spreads germs
Don’t share your makeup or skincare with anyone, even close friends or siblings
Not everything has to change during treatment.
Get tips about nails, skincare makeup and hair in our Teens 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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Nail Care During Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment doesn’t just affect your hair and skin—it can change your nails too. Your nails (and the skin around them) might get weaker, develop ridges, get thicker or discoloured, or even fall off. It might sound a little scary, but don’t worry—it’s only temporary and totally normal during treatment.
Tips to Keep Your Hands & Feet Healthy
Want to keep your nails and skin in good shape?
Try these easy tips:
Skip Cutting Your Cuticles – it can lead to cuts or infections (use cuticle cream to keep them soft and help avoid hangnails)
Moisturize Often – with a thick, rich hand cream (your hands will thank you!)
Keep Your Nails Short – so they're less likely to break or snag
Wear Rubber Gloves – when doing stuff like dishes or cleaning. Too much water exposure can cause nail infections
Nail Polish & Salons – What to know!
Still want to rock some nail polish?
Go for it and play it safe!
Stick with light or neutral pinks for a natural, healthy look
Use acetone-free nail polish remover – it's always less drying
If you go to the salon, let them know you're in treatment so they can be extra gentle and hygienic
Not everything has to change during treatment.
Get tips about nails, skincare makeup and hair in our Teens 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