Whenever people ask, as they often do, for product recommendations for use during chemotherapy, I’m invariably honoured but hesitant. I would hate anyone to think I placed undue importance on beauty at such a time. Beauty products should be pleasurable, and can be soothing and comforting, but they’re not medicine and, as with any illness, cancer treatment is about doing as the experts direct and hoping for a positive outcome.
But I also know, having loved too many people who have had chemotherapy, that it’s a time when everything seems at sea. Familiar rituals and moments spent reconnecting with one’s body can be of value. And so if products can be adapted to newly sensitised skin, a recommendation is helpful.
The first brand I suggest is, unfailingly, La Roche-Posay. The French pharmacy brand is fairly priced, no nonsense, and works closely with Macmillan Cancer Support. The Toleriane range specifically is often recommended by dermatologists to patients living with cancer because it’s soothing, hydrating and gentle on irritated skin. I find the Toleriane Dermallergo Soothing Cream (£23) very good, and it works well under makeup.
For areas like sore hands and chapped lips (both common chemo side effects), a barrier cream is a good idea. CeraVe’s new Advanced Repair Ointment, containing its signature blend of cushiony ceramides, is excellent and a good price at £11.
On to more enjoyable items: a bath is of course wonderful for aches and pains, and there’s no need to forgo the bubbles. I’ve given dozens of bottles of L’Occitane Shea Bubble Bath over the years, for skin-softening indulgence during everything from pregnancy to chemotherapy. It’s pricey at £29.50, but strikes the right balance between function and frivolity, with fat bubbles that never strip beleaguered skin.
For afterwards, I always suggest a lovely body oil or cream, because the act of light massage serves as a sort of “touching base” moment between body and mind. Avocado oil from the supermarket is great, but if a treat will bring cheer, I love Mirror Water’s decadent Smooth Body Oil (£35) or, if skin can’t tolerate natural fragrance, Byoma’s extremely well-priced Nourishing Body Oil (£12.99), both of which leave skin gleaming and soft.
Finally, brush or smoosh on Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (£39). Nothing – and I mean nothing – gives a healthier-looking face faster.
