Body Care
Moisturiser
MooGoo Natural Skin Milk Udder Cream
If there is one cream that needs to be in your bathroom cabinet, it is this one. The OG of the Moo Goo brand. It includes milk protein to keep skin supple and hydrated and it was truly indispensable during both chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I used it religiously around the scar during radio and had amazing results. I still use it now along with other products from the brand. There are now oncology packs you can purchase that include a whole range of wonderful items that look so lovely on the shelf and work so brilliantly on the skin.
doTERRA Hand & Body Lotion
This simple hand and body lotion contains jojoba and macadamia seed oils as well as seed butters and plant extracts. It has a lovely light non greasiness about it and absorbs quickly into the skin leaving it feeling hydrated and super soft.
CeraVe Moisturising Cream Tube
This moisturising cream contains three essential Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid that work in synergy to moisture and protect skin's natural barrier. Locking in moisture for all-day hydration, which makes it super great to use on the body before and after bathing especially during Chemotherapy. I used it every day before a shower and it really helped keep the skin soft and hydrated.
Body Wash
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser
Simple and light, this foaming wash is perfect for every day. It contains no parabens or sulphates and produces a light foam that is suitable for the face or body.
MooGoo Natural Milk Wash
You cannot go wrong with this product. The milk wash is super soft and gentle on the skin. Free from parabens and preservatives, this wash is suitable for the body and face. It has the same irritation score as water so it is suitable for the most sensitive of skin.
Sunscreen
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
I was actually amazed by how light this sunscreen is. It literally melts into the skin. As well as providing a broad spectrum UVA/UVB and infrared protection, it also helps to filter blue light. I found it the best for the face as it was so light that you could apply makeup over the top without it feeling heavy. It is marketed as doubling up as a make-up gripping primer so what’s not to love?
MooGoo Natural Tail Swat Body Spray
Avoiding bites post breast cancer treatment, especially lymph node surgery, can be tricky. I was looking for gentle protection without the nasties. This spray is not an insect repellent but it changes your scent to something bugs do not like. The best thing is that it is made using natural ingredients and can be literally used anywhere, face and body and is suitable for all skin types. Also comes in a roll on: Moo Goo Natural Tail Swat Roll On.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50+
This suncream is ideal for sensitive skin. It is fragrance free, has an anti-eye-stinging formula and is sweat and water resistant. It can be used on the body and face. As well as being ultra hydrating, the spf50 helps to defend against UVA and UVB rays.
MooGoo Natural Sunscreen SPF30
This is a natural water resistant zinc based cream that is SPF 30. Although there is zinc in it, it does go on clear. It is a thick cream, so it is harder to rub in than most, but it feels wonderfully nourishing. The zinc means that there are no chemical UV filters in it, just the natural active ingredient. Suitable for all skin types.
Green People Sunscreen and After Sun
This is a lovely sunscreen, suitable for sensitive skin and packed with organic plant extracts to hydrate and soothe. It has an SPF30 and although quite thick to apply, it is non greasy and naturally water repellent, so good for those places that really catch the sun. I love that it has a travel size which can be popped in a handbag wherever, whenever. The After sun contains Aloe Vera and camomile for soothing the skin as well peppermint for cooling and refreshing. The one genius fact is that it provides protection from biting insects for up to 4 hours.
Aloe Pura Laboratories aloe gel Gel (organic)
The Aloe Pura Aloe Vera Gel is the go to after sun for parched skin. It is made using only the inner gel from plump, ripe aloe vera leaves, offering a cooling, soothing and replenishing ointment
Hello Sunday The One for your Lips SPF50
This is a miracle in a tube kind of product. For those in the know, chemotherapy also takes a toll on your mouth and lips. Ulcers are a common side effect and dry and chapped lips are uncomfortable especially when trying to eat or drink. Hello Sunday’s clear lip balm not only gives daily protection to the lips, it also helps to reduce water loss through the skin’s surface and provides SPF50 sun protection. It is fragrance free and lightweight and, importantly, doesn't feel sticky or leave a residue.
Hello Sunday The Everyday One (for face) SPF50
This is a really useful lightweight moisturiser that has a really high SPF50 and comes in a very neat bottle which is ideal to pop in a handbag. The formula is vegan, cruelty free and does not contain any nasties. It goes on invisibly and is equally brilliant on its own or underneath makeup.
Lip Salve
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Levres
My go-to lip salve for everyday. I cannot be without this and have used and tried many many brands to get there. It doesn’t dry out the lips, it doesn’t leave a residue on the lips and it is light and moisturising, so I only really need a couple of applications per day. I also use it at night before bed.
La Roche-Posay Nutritic Levres
Similar to the Cicaplast, this formula is in a stick as a pose to a cream. Lightweight and nourishing, and easy to apply.
Albus & Flora Tinted Salve SPF30
Inspired by skiing in the alps and the acute and chronic damage of UV on unprotected lips, Albus & Flora founder Rachel Williams, a physiologist, used her knowledge of pharmacology to create this range of UV salves. Formulated with alpine rose extract, cranberry and raspberry seed oil, these gorgeous wonder sticks help to protect against sun damage, fine lines and the loss of lip fullness. With pretty packaging, they are available in a clear balm but also tinted shades and are an absolute must for anyone suffering from dry or damaged lips.
Hello Sunday The One for your Lips SPF50
This is a miracle in a tube kind of product. For those in the know, chemotherapy also takes a toll on your mouth and lips. Ulcers are a common side effect and dry and chapped lips are uncomfortable especially when trying to eat or drink. Hello Sunday’s clear lip balm not only gives daily protection to the lips, it also helps to reduce water loss through the skin’s surface and provides SPF50 sun protection. It is fragrance free and lightweight and, importantly, doesn't feel sticky or leave a residue.
Face Cream and Oil
Weleda Skin Food
A deeply rich, replenishing plant powered moisturiser that is the answer to dry and compromised skin in need of nutrition. A powerful cream for the face, I use this whenever I feel my skin needs a good drink.
Weleda Skin Food Light
Similar to the OG Skin Food, this light plant powered moisturiser is lighter to apply and is more suited to daily use once the compromised skin is a little more hydrated. Brilliant for daytime underneath a suncream or solo in the evening.
doTERRA Anti-Aging Moisturiser
This essential skin care moisturiser is packed with powerful doTERRA essential oils that are combined to improve skin tone, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and help reduce future visible signs of normal ageing. I love to apply this either underneath a sunscreen or in the evening when I feel my skin needs extra hydration.
The Ordinary Rosehip Seed Oil
Without fail, I do not go anywhere without this product. I use it every night on my face, afterapplying a serum, before moisturising. I use a gua sha after application to stimulate the lymphatic system on my neck and face and then allow the oil to sink in. This oil is 100% pure, cold-pressed and organic. It targets photo-ageing (premature ageing due to overexposure to UV rays) and boosts the skin's overall health.
Hand Cream
NUXE Rêve de Miel Hand and Nail Cream
This is my favourite hand cream for when I am out and about. It is a great handbag size and is perfect to apply after any hand sanitiser. Containing honey, sunflower and vitamin E, it adds moisture to the skin and a richness to help smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, without making the hands greasy.
Bramley Calm Balm
I keep this pot by my bedside and use it on hands, elbows, soles of feet, whatever feels dry and undernourished. And what a difference it makes! Made with 100% natural ingredients, this balm contains rosehip oil and camomile & yarrow essential oils that release a beautifully soothing fragrance and I love the fact that it is made in the UK countryside and has wonderfully uplifting packaging.
Eye Cream
Naked & Thriving Revive Firming Eye Cream
This is my go-to eye cream and I use it every evening. I definitely noticed an immediate difference in the brightness and the elasticity of the skin around the eyes. I would highly recommend it. Although it is quite pricey for a small pot, you only need a teeny amount so it will last a long time. The botanical-infused formula targets the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a visibly smooth, firm look. Revive combines peptides, hyaluronic acid, and bakuchiol with other active botanicals resulting in a brilliant cream.
Peter Thomas Roth Hydra-Gel Eye Patches
Apologies for those who see me in the morning (usually family) because I wear these patches pretty much every day, first thing. They add an immediate lift to the eye and are brilliant at relieving bags and dark circles from tired eyes. The posh equivalent of cucumber on the eyes, but you can function with them on. I used them throughout treatment every day, just to relieve tired, sleep deprived eyes and now, I am never without them when I travel or when I am feeling like my eyes need a little pep.
Deodorant
Malin+Goetz Bergamot or Eucalyptus
Having had lymph node surgery as well as a mastectomy, I am more than aware of what I put on my body, especially around the armpit area. After surgery, it took me a good few weeks to actually be able to or to want to apply any scented deodorant in this area. This product is absolutely amazing. It is clear of aluminium, alcohol, baking soda, parabens and synthetic fragrances or dyes. It is cruelty-free and its vegan formula takes its odour-dispelling abilities from citronellyl and refreshing eucalyptus oil to grant all-day protection. It has a transparent gel texture so it glides on easily, quickly absorbs and leaves no stains plus it comes in both full (73g) and travel (28g) sizes.
Face Cleanser
MooGoo Natural Milk Wash
You cannot go wrong with this product. The milk wash is super soft and gentle on the skin. Free from parabens and preservatives, this wash is suitable for the body and face. It has the same irritation score as water so it is suitable for the most sensitive of skin.
Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish
Someone once told me that you should never scrub your face wet or dry, only gently apply a hot towel and let the skin dry naturally. And delicate skin during treatment really doesn't like being scrubbed or dried. Cue Liz Earle’s cleanse and polish. It has a gentle milk-like foam when mixed with water that will gently remove any grease including make up. Then simply apply the warm wet cloth to the skin and pat to remove residue and to freshen the face. Leave to dry and voila! You are done. Just continue with your skin routine. I use it day in and day out and would never be without it.
Cooling Fan
Fabulouz Cool Air Hand Held Fan
A very useful hand held fan that can be popped in a bag and works very well in warmer weather especially against hot flashes. Easy to keep by the bedside
Patrick Ta 'She's Extra' Setting Fan
This fan’s actual purpose is to help set makeup or suchlike, but its robustness makes it the perfect fan for hot weather or hot flashes. Plus it looks chic and traditional. It has been an absolutely indispensable item to me. I keep it bedside or even under my pillow and I carry it everywhere and it has travelled with me extensively. It is larger than the electric hand held, so sometimes it doesn't fit into a small evening bag, but I use it as an accessory and carry it if need be.
Brows and Lashes
ukbrow Brow Serum
UK Brow is a must for those looking to fill out brows that have been thinned due to treatment. Apply every evening.
uklash Eyelash Serum
If you lose your lashes during Chemotherapy, apply the UK Lash serum to them until they start to grow out - it might take a while but I noticed mine within 7 weeks of using the serum.
Eylure C-Lash
A short term solution to no lashes are these incredible fake lashes available in 3 styles (natural, lengthening and volume) and are designed for people needing lash replacement. There is a soft and flexible invisible band that aids application providing a bigger surface area on which the lashes can stick. Also available in Boots stores.
Gua Sha
Green People Jade Gua Sha Massage Tool
There is currently a bit of a face yoga revolution and the gua sha plays a large part in this. In beauty circles it is primarily used to improve fine lines and wrinkles and to keep a youthful appearance. I can without a doubt say that using it regularly has helped boost my skin’s elasticity. However, I used this throughout my treatment for promoting blood circulation and increasing lymphatic drainage in the face and neck area. When we are anxious, it is commonly known that we can hold a lot of tension in the jaw and neck. But perhaps less commonly known is that we can also hold it in the face. Using this wonderful holistic tool every day can help alleviate symptoms.
Toothpaste
Eco Denta Black Whitening Charcoal
Activated charcoal has a great cleansing effect on the teeth and gums. During treatment, our mouths, teeth and gums can become super sensitive to any normal toothpastes. Eco Denta is gentle on the gums and is vegan friendly and formulated without fluoride. It has a green leaf extract in it which is antibacterial and helps to protect against tartar.
General Soothing Balm
apicare All Purpose Soothing Gel
I was introduced to Apicare many years ago and have always had it in the medical cupboard as my go to for smoothing bites, sunburn, minor burns etc. However, during treatment, this was absolutely wonderful to help with any skin irritations including any dry skin on the body, elbows, or chapped lips. It contains 75% Aloe Vera blended with Manuka Honey, Vitamin E as well as chamomile, tea tree and lavender to soothe, plus peppermint oil to cool.
Bramley Calm Balm
I keep this pot by my bedside and use it on hands, elbows, soles of feet, whatever feels dry and undernourished. And what a difference it makes! Made with 100% natural ingredients, this balm contains rosehip oil and camomile & yarrow essential oils that release a beautifully soothing fragrance and I love the fact that it is made in the UK countryside and has wonderfully uplifting packaging.
Nail Care
Chemotherapy makes us very sensitive to ultraviolet rays. The theory of applying dark nail polish to nails during treatment is that it effectively blocks out the light and there is lesschance of the nails becoming damaged. Apply a couple of coats to fingers and toes and keep it on as long as possible. When it starts to chip or damage, apply a fresh layer over. The polish does not have to be black, but the darker the better, so a navy or deep red or purple is just as good. There are many plant based nail varnishes on the market nowadays, but after much trying and testing, these are my top ranked…
Nail Polish
Nails Inc Plant Based Range
The Nails inc range has a plethora of colours that are fast drying, long lasting and 73% plant based. The polishes are 21 free so they’re totally suitable for vegans and cruelty free.
Nailberry London L’Oxygene
The tagline for Nailberry is colour your nails healthy, and although this brand has been around since 2012, I was only aware of it after a friend gifted me a bottle. Vegan, cruelty free and Halal, it is by far one of the best nail polishes I have tried. The brushes are brilliant and make application super easy. And let’s talk about the range of colours…hot coco, moonlight, boho chic and black berry being some of my favourites. Definitely my go to nail polish.
Nail Polish Remover
Nailberry Clean
The Apothecary Edit section of the Nailberry range allows you to keep your nails as strong and healthy as you can. Nail oils, strengtheners and hardeners using ingredients such as açai extract, almond oils and black algae. My go to for nail polish remover is the Nailberry clean. Being acetone free, it is kinder to nails but removes polish really well. It also contains Muscat Tree Rose oil to help nourish and Alpha Hydroxy Acids to help revitalise and harden.
Nails Inc Vegan Nail Polish Remover
For feet and hands. Cute bottle and remover pad and really nice coconut smelling, this is a great one to travel with.
Nail Oil
Nailberry The Cure Ultimate Nail Hardener
The Apothecary Edit section of the Nailberry range allows you to keep your nails as strong and healthy as you can. Nail oils, strengtheners and hardeners using ingredients such as açai extract, almond oils and black algae. My go to for nail polish remover is the Nailberry clean. Being acetone free, it is kinder to nails but removes polish really well. It also contains Muscat Tree Rose oil to help nourish and Alpha Hydroxy Acids to help revitalise and harden.
Hair/Scalp Care
Hairbrush
Hair is always a sticky subject when it comes to breast cancer treatment because the truth is, you don’t know if you will lose, shed or keep your hair. Everyone is different. Using a cold cap can help keep your hair longer, even though it may shed. The gentler the product is on the scalp, the kinder it will be to your hair.
Olivia Garden 100% Boar Bristle Brush
Because they are rich in keratin, boar bristles improve the elasticity, waterproofing and resistance of our hair. They also allow for gentle detangling and better sebum distribution. After brushing, the hair is nourished, soothed and shiny.
Shampoo and Conditioner (during treatment, especially chemotherapy)
Simple Kind to Hair Shampoo
The Simple Kind to Hair range was recommended to me by a hair professional before my treatment started. During the treatment I would wash it delicately once with the shampoo and conditioner and pat dry.
Simple Kind to Hair Conditioner
The Simple Kind to Hair range was recommended to me by a hair professional before my treatment started. The conditioner I would keep in and use as a barrier to the cold cap on treatment days.
Shampoo and Conditioner (post treatment)
Champo Hair Care Range
The inspiration for these shampoos and conditioners is rooted in ancient India, however, the formulas (98% naturally derived) are produced in the UK. The result is three natural hair care ranges, each using Ayurveda’s ancient insight to bring hair back to its natural best.
Champo Hair Care Range
The scalp oil growth serum is a firm favourite of mine and I have used it religiously over the last two years and it feels remarkably fuller and thicker and glossier.
Centred Squishy Scalp Massager
Centred Squishy Scalp Massager
A gentle massaging brush made from soft rubber that stimulates hair follicles on the scalp and helps the hair to grow back thicker and stronger. For use post treatment when scalp is recovering and thereafter whenever you choose.
Extra Help for Hair Whilst in Treatment
Jennifer Effie’s Hair Solutions – for hair loss and hair replacement. The wonderful Jennifer has created a bespoke hair replacement system for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. The idea is to re-create how your hair looked before experiencing hair loss. Jennifer has a kind and gentle approach to the anxiety and stress of experiencing hair loss, was super understanding and totally put me at ease during my appointment. To book your appointment contact www.jehair.com
Head wraps and scarves – for days when you want to let it all hang out au natural or you simply don’t fancy a wig, there are some really good head wrap and scarf options on the market. The breathable fabrics are the best – you will avoid an itchy, sweaty scalp, so opt for bamboo or 100% cotton or cashmere if the weather is cold. Check out www.simplywigs.co.uk for some great options. The Shakir Turban Headwear and Namida Turban collections are 95% bamboo and come in fab colours and look super stylish.
You also can’t go wrong with a cashmere beanie for cold winter days. Simple, stylish and cosy, and available in an array of colours and price points. Check out www.johnstonsofelgin cashmere roll trim jersey hat in lots of pretty colour ways.
Bamboo hair drying towel. This is a fab way of drying your hair when it is especially fragile from treatment. The bamboo is soft and easy on the scalp and the towel wrapping technique stops you from over rubbing the hair and damaging it. Try the Hydrea Bamboo hair drying towel wrap from www.naturisimo.com
Sun hats are a must anyway, but especially if you are undergoing chemotherapy treatment and the sun is out. Wide brim hats that cover the face and neck area are the best. You can channel the Audrey Hepburn in you, by wrapping a soft silk or cotton scarf around your head and popping the hat over the top to give you a 50s glam Hollywood look, whilst protecting your scalp. Hats vary in price according to their longevity. Most High Street stores will sell sun hats at a given time of year. Try www.hm.com or www.zara.com for some lovely wide brim options.
Alternatively, if you want to spend a little more, Jess Collett, a wonderful milliner based in Notting Hill, London, sells amazing sun hats that will last and her World Traveller collection is certified spf50+. To check out the range visit www.jesscollettmilliner.com
Make-Up
CC Cream
Juice Beauty Stem Cellular CC Cream
Seven shades to choose from, this vegan, sustainable, cruelty and chemical free cream and moisturiser, corrects and perfects whilst offering SPF 30 protection. This cream is super soft and gentle on the skin, especially skin that is hyper-sensitive due to chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment. I would wear it over an SPF 50 face cream in the summer months (please see the sunscreen section).
Erborian Korean Skin Therapy CC Cream
SPF 25. Never tested on animals and no nasties including parabens and sulphites, this cream gives a flawless look and is (shhhhh) a kind of magic in a tube! A little goes a long way so use sparingly but it is available in Boots so super easy to get hold of. Available from a number of retailers nationwide including Boots and online.
IT Cosmetics CC+ Colour Correcting Full Coverage Cream
I find this cream lighter than a full foundation but heavier than a usual CC coverage, so great for parties and dressing up events. Comes in a multitude of shades.
Under Eye Cream Corrector
Erborian CC Eye Cream
A super lightweight cream to help moisturise and smooth fine lines, conceals puffiness and dark circles and brightens the eyes. A little goes a long way with this cream as the tube is small (10ml) but works wonderfully with the tip of a small sponge blender. Available from Boots nationwide or online.
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer
This product helps to conceal as well as brighten and doesn’t sink into wrinkles around the eye as much as other concealers can. It is thicker in consistency than the Erborian eye cream but it is great for going out eyes that need to last a while.
Eyelashes
uklash Eyelash Serum
If you lose your lashes during Chemotherapy, apply the UK Lash serum to them until they start to grow out - it might take a while but I noticed mine within 7 weeks of using the serum.
Eylure C-Lash
A short term solution to no lashes are these incredible fake lashes available in 3 styles (natural, lengthening and volume) and are designed for people needing lash replacement. There is a soft and flexible invisible band that aids application providing a bigger surface area on which the lashes can stick. Also available in Boots stores.
Victoria Beckham Future Lash Mascara
The best mascara I have ever, ever found. This product lifts lashes but also helps to strengthen them over time. The amazing thing is that it rinses away with just warm water - no remover needed. Plus it doesn’t smudge, flake or run and is vegan, hypoallergenic, gluten and soy free. It basically is a little miracle in a tube. Perfect for delicate lashes.
Brows
ukbrow Brow Serum
UK Brow is a must for those looking to fill out brows that have been thinned due to treatment. Apply every evening.
Glossier Boy Brow Grooming Pomade
This is something I will never leave home without. Especially if you lose some or all of your brows during treatment, it's a great go-to for filling in lightly and it doesn’t make you look like you are wearing stick-ons. There are 5 shades from black to clear.
Blush
Stila Convertible Colour
This is an oldie but a goodie. A cream blush that works on the cheeks but also on the lips. Available in 5 gloriously fresh colours in adorable packaging that even has a tiny mirror inside.
Dr Paw Paw Multi-Purpose Soothing Balm
A friend introduced me to this and it is absolutely perfect for daytime glow on the lips, cheeks or eyelids. It comes in a tube, is fragrance free and vegan friendly PETA approved. It’s great to keep in your bag and use when out.
Trinny London Cream Blush
Trinny London has the best cream blushes for mature and/or sensitive skin. The Lip2cheek range is so creamy to apply and smells absolutely amazing! A lot of the Trinny London range is multipurpose, so you can use the blush on the lips and vice Versa. Possibly the best thing about the range is that the pots are stackable, meaning they are so easy to travel with.
Trinny London Miracle Blur
I also never leave home without the Miracle Blur - a tiny pot of magic that blurs fine lines and wrinkles around the eye and mouth area.
Bronzer
IT Cosmetics Ombré Radiance Bronzer
This is a highlighter and bronzer all in one so you can use the colours combined or the bonzer first and highlighter after. It has a creamy feel to it and the skin looks sun kissed as a pose to orange. It works really well on skin that just needs an extra boost, especially tired skin during treatment.
Drunk Elephant Anti Pollution Sunshine Drops
Literally sunshine in a bottle. Omega rich virgin marula and blackcurrant seed oils plus vitamin F fatty acids replenish the skin whilst protective antioxidants boost the skin’s defences against pollution and environmental stressors. All whilst giving you a sunkissed glow. Just mix a couple of drops with a moisturiser and you are done
Lips
Albus & Flora Tinted Salve SPF30
Inspired by skiing in the alps and the acute and chronic damage of UV on unprotected lips, Albus & Flora founder Rachel Williams, a physiologist, used her knowledge of pharmacology to create this range of UV salves. Formulated with alpine rose extract, cranberry and raspberry seed oil, these gorgeous wonder sticks help to protect against sun damage, fine lines and the loss of lip fullness. With pretty packaging, they are available in a clear balm but also tinted shades and are an absolute must for anyone suffering from dry or damaged lips.
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment
A wonderful lip balm that comes in an array colours that do not dry out the skin.