Beauty tip #13: Dealing with scars
I'm sure you will agree with me when I say that cancer leaves us with more than visible scars: it also leaves us with psychological scars. Today, however, I want to talk to you about the visible ones, as several types of cancer will involve surgery and leave us with physical scars. These scars serve as a reminder of our fate and what we went through. I have a few… a port-a-cath surgery that went wrong (and resulted in a week in hospital with a collapsed lung - can you spot it in the picture?), 2 cancer surgeries 3 years ago and a few more… So here are some tips on how to deal with them.
1- Use a scar removing products to reduce their appearance.
After removing the stitches from my ovarian cancer surgeries, I used a silicone gel called Kelo-Cote for several months that my sister and gynaecologist recommended. In fact, I had used this same gel in scars in my foot in the past – they are still visible but are significantly smaller now. If you think this is a good option for you, just make sure to use a product that has any scientific proof that actually removes scars, otherwise it will be a waste of money and time.
2- Consult a dermatologist to assess best treatment.
If your scars are something that really concern (or annoy) you and a silicone gel is not enough to reduce them, you can discuss it with a dermatologist as they might have some stronger treatments such as laser, injections or even surgery.
3- Hide it: what the eyes don't see the heart doesn't grieve over.
The worst mistake you can do is to stop enjoying your life because of your scars. Believe me- I know how hard it is to pretend everything is normal and act as such during or after cancer, I have been there. But I beg you to keep doing things you did and enjoyed before cancer. Most of the time, other people might not even notice your scars unless you point them out. If you used to enjoy going to the beach but are too conscious about your scars now, choose a swimwear that will cover the scars. If Chris Hemsworth can get away wearing an ‘ugly Christmas hashie’ I am sure we can too, right?! :-) Another strategy is to move the focus from the scar to another part of your body. Put on a bright lipstick, beautiful earrings or a scarf and then the focus is taken away from a scar.
4- Make sure to protect scars from the sun.
When exposed to sunlight, new scars (up to 12 months old) can burn easily and develop hyperpigmentation (ie, the skin can become darker), which will make them more apparent than they were. Make sure to either cover or protect your scars with sunscreen (such as SFP50). Remember that prevention is cheaper and quicker than treating scars that have been exposed to the sun.
5- You are a survivor: Be proud
I know scars might be one more thing to add to the long list of long-term side effects cancer has left you. It can be upsetting at times and even years later it can be a reminder of everything you went through or even lost in the process of getting where you are. When these moments happen, try to be positive and value what is really important in your life, and I am sure deep inside scars are not really one of them. You survived or are surviving cancer, and for that alone you should be extremely proud!
Wishing you all much love and health
Fran xo
