Skin care and make-up after chemo, turning 50 and hormone blockers.
Skincare & Makeup After Chemo And Taking Care of My Skin at 50.
One thing I didn’t think much about before cancer was how much my skin might change throughout this journey!
Between turning 50, going through chemotherapy, and now taking hormone therapy, I’ve noticed that my skin is definitely drier than it used to be. Products that worked great for me before don’t always work the same way now, and I’ve been figuring out what feels good, what looks good, and what helps me feel a little more like myself.
Skincare: Moisture Is Everything!
My biggest takeaway so far? Moisture, moisture, moisture!
My skin feels drier, and I’ve had to rethink my skincare routine. I’m paying more attention to hydration and looking for products that leave my skin feeling soft and comfortable instead of tight or flaky.
I’m also learning that less can be more. Gentle cleansers, good moisturizers, and daily sunscreen have become important parts of my routine. I’m trying to be kinder to my skin rather than piling on a bunch of products and hoping for the best.
The Hormone Therapy Factor
Another piece of the puzzle is hormone therapy. Aromatase inhibitors, which are commonly used in certain types of breast cancer treatment, lower estrogen levels. That can contribute to changes in skin hydration and elasticity.
Add in the natural changes that come with being in your mid-40s and beyond, plus everything our body’s has been through with chemo, and it makes sense that my skin needs a little extra attention!
Everyone’s experience is different, but I think it’s worth talking about these changes because they aren’t always something we expect when we think about life after cancer treatment.
Makeup at middle age: Finding What Works Now
Makeup has been another learning curve! When your skin is drier, foundation can settle into fine lines or cling to dry patches in ways it never did before.
I’ve been gravitating toward products that give my skin a little glow and don’t make it look or feel overly dry as well as sinking into one lines. I want makeup that enhances my skin, feels comfortable, and doesn't require a 12-step process every morning!
I’m also paying more attention to skin prep before applying makeup. A good moisturizer can make a big difference in how everything sits on your face.
And honestly, some days I want a full face of makeup, and other days I’m happy with the basics. Both are perfectly fine!
My Favorite Skincare & Makeup Finds
I put together an Amazon list of products I’ve been enjoying and wanted to share them in case they’re helpful to someone else navigating similar changes.
These are products I personally like and have found worth sharing. Everyone’s skin is different, so what works for me may not work for you, but hopefully you’ll find something new to try!
You can check out my favorite finds here:
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1UOD27L2X73XZ?ref_=wl_share
I’ll continue to update the list as I find new favorites!
A Little Reminder
Cancer treatment changes so much about your life, and sometimes it’s the little things that help you feel like yourself again. For me, taking a few minutes to care for my skin, put on makeup, or find a product that actually works feels like a small win.
I’m learning to give myself some grace, adjust to the changes, and figure out what works for this new chapter.
And if you’re in the same boat, just know you’re not alone! ❤️