Cosmetic procedures while receiving treatment

[CLC-52]

Hello ladies, does anyone know if cosmetic procedures like lasers, peels, fillers, etc. that aging women enjoy are safe for us with compromised immune systems? I was reading somewhere that we're living longer with all the new medicines out there and feeling good about our appearance helps our mental as we age, lol. I'm sure I can attest for a lot of us on here that feeling as normal as we can while going through treatment is important too.

[minnie767]

I understand completely. My dermatologist gives me medical Botox injections once a year for Frey’s, but she needed MO’s approval last year before she would do it. MO would not approve it for fear of infection. Granted, he said if dermo wanted to do it that was somewhat of a choice, but since approval was requested he suggested that should indicate to me that it was not something they would recommend. I have not pressed any further. I’m sure there are people that will work with you, but proceed with caution.

[fancydog]

While I am not yet on a drug that tanks my WBCs, I think all of us with Stage 4 do have immune systems that are struggling, but I have 3 Groupon facials along with Chemical Peels or Microderm Abrasion coming up at an Esthetics school. Before Metastatic, I had several Botox then switched to Disport injections to smooth out a forehead "W" that appeared when I was concentrating on something, but others often thought I was angry when I wasn't! And I had some laugh lines smoothed out as well. Just recently I have lost about 15 lbs d/t mental destress from a family member followed by a Corona Virus infection but not Covid-19 but lost taste and smell. I look soooo old. Yes, I am due t to turn 65 this year and the Dermatologist called it wisdom skin changes but yuk!!

[TammyCross]

All I know is that anything that stimulates hyaluronic acid -- which I was looking into because of muscle/ligament/joint pain side effect -- seems to stimulate cancer cells. Hyaluronic acid is also great for skin. getting rid of wrinkles. People take the same thing for wrinkles that I was looking into for my joints. So I would say, in addition to the discouraging response from one doctor, do your own research. I was reading great things about hyaluronic acid pills for skin and arthritis, and the np said go ahead, then I googled hyaluronic acid and cancer, and it turns out there is shorter OS if you have high levels of HA and mbc, especially in lymph nodes.

[Hopeful4Cure]

Have any of you checked celebrex for joint pain?

[Aquamoron]

I can say that after being in treatment (ibrance, xgeva and faslodex) for the past 12 months my skin has absolutely grown more dry and sensitive and prone to chemical reactions. Maybe it’s just my own ‘ecosystem’ but recently saw an allergist and discovered that I’m allergic to niacin/ vitamin B3. That’s a new one for me.

So, my skin routine has changed to more natural products to keep things in check. It might be worthwhile to mention to your dermatologist and/or Onc to avoid any unwanted effects.

Self care is such a huge part of all of this. It’s such a huge boost doing something that makes you feel great. Good for you for taking time for yourself!