Losing your hair is overwhelming enough during chemotherapy. If you hear from your oncologist that you may lose your lashes during cancer treatment, it can feel even worse. Radiation therapy has a nasty habit of damaging lashes which is frustrating since it’s one of the most effective treatment options.
Unfortunately, it affects cancer patients equally. Whether you’re battling oral cancer, breast cancer, or any other type of cancer, you may find that your beautiful natural eyelashes aren’t holding up how they used to. Thankfully, there are things you can do to counteract this side effect.
1. Reduce eyelash loss.
Your eyelashes tend to be sensitive, and if you irritate your natural lash line, the likelihood of losing them increases. Whether you’re seeking cancer treatment in Holmdel, NJ with the Regional Cancer Care Associates or you’re visiting a different interventional radiologist, they’ll likely recommend some similar tips:
- Try not to rub your eyes too much. Rubbing your eyes can cause the eyelashes that are there to fall out.
- Use natural makeup remover. Something with a light volume is best so it doesn’t cause irritation. Gently wipe mascara and other products from your eyes.
- Avoid heavy makeup products. Even though you might want a thicker mascara to highlight the thickness of your natural eyelashes and accentuate your almond eye shape, heavy makeup can be too harsh on your lashes. Mascara with revolutionary tapered end technology might be a good pick.
Chemotherapy causes already-delicate lashes to become even more prone to breakage. Even if you want a bit of a lash lift during your treatment plan, it’s best to play it safe and focus more on the full look of your makeup instead of going heavy on the eyes. While it’s okay to pamper yourself for a special event, it shouldn’t be an everyday occurrence. Your medical oncologist will likely agree.
2. Pick effective products.
Nowadays, lash extensions and false lashes, like magnetic eyelashes by Glamnetic, are almost unrecognizable next to natural lashes. They have the same curl and can provide you with a beautiful lash lift. Lash extensions can be an excellent addition to any makeup look. Of course, there are still some guidelines here, too.
First, you’ll want to choose extensions from Paris Lash Academy that come with an easy lash applicator. The more time you have to spend sticking and unsticking a lash strip, the more likely you are to cause eye irritation. Second, keep a lookout for how your eyes react. First-time lash users often aren’t used to lash adhesives. If you notice abnormalities like a lesion, it could have been caused by the lash band. Avoid a potential abnormality by using products like a velour lash adhesive that is better for sensitive eyes. Finally, choose the highest quality products you can. Cheaper products are more likely to cause irritation.
3. Try pharmaceutical options for growth.
If you don’t want to use extensions, can’t get lashes to stick to the outer corner of your eye, or can’t achieve the right level of curl, you may want to pursue a pharmaceutical option. Of course, before you choose any product, talk to your oncology professional before purchasing. These products can spur lash growth but need to be taken as directed. Of course, if you’re experiencing any issues or difficulties, stop taking any products immediately and contact your oncologist. Some growth kits are covered by insurance, but you’ll want to review your policy beforehand. You may even require a pre-authorization letter from your doctor for this to work.
Losing your natural eyelashes can add a great deal of frustration to an already-complicated cancer diagnosis. Chemotherapy, unfortunately, is often as cruel as it is effective. Don’t let it break your spirits. You still have options to help you feel as beautiful on the outside as you are on the inside.
Leave a Reply