Couple of questions re:soaps/deodorant

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Luvmydobies
Luvmydobies Member Posts: 766
edited March 2016 in Lymphedema

Hi ladies! I've been using Dove shower gel for sensitive skin but would like to use something different for the summer. Do you know if it's safe to use a scented shower gel with LE as long as it doesn't irritate the skin? Same question for antiperspirant/deo? This is embarrassing but I sweat and will stink if I use anything natural. I've tried all of them, Toms, the crystal liquid and stone, you name it and they don't work and some make me itch. I've also tried all the unscented regular antiperspirants and ones labeled for sensitive skin. They ALL break me out. A friend told me she uses Old Spice antiperspirant because she has sensitive pits. So I went out and bought one called Old Spice Wolfthorn and it works for sweat and odor and does not irritate my pits. It smells like fruit punch, so no, I don't smell like a dude! Lol.I haven't discussed antiperspirant with my LE therapist but does anyone know if it's safe for LE as long as it's not irritating? My Oncologost says it's fine but I wanted your thoughts?

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  • mltdd
    mltdd Member Posts: 87
    edited March 2016

    I use a deodorant powder that I found on cure diva. I use the powder plain when not being physically active and with coconut oil when I expect to sweat: http://www.curediva.com/chemotherapy/skin-care-1/cucumber-mint-deodorant-powder.html#sthash.zNQfjSYl.dpbs


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  • Luvmydobies
    Luvmydobies Member Posts: 766
    edited March 2016

    mltdd, my LE therapist told me not to use any organic products on the affected area and my armpit is affected. I have truncal LE but it's also mild in the armpit. The reason she said not to use organic is because there is bacteria in organic products. I've tried so many other natural products though and they do not work for me.

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  • LisaAlissa
    LisaAlissa Member Posts: 1,092
    edited March 2016

    My brother-in-law (a farmer) said to think of organic as without manufactured chemicals but with naturally occurring chemicals (for instance, from organic fertilizers), as well as "dirt, bugs and weeds."

    It gave me a different take on "organic..."

    LisaAlissa

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  • Luvmydobies
    Luvmydobies Member Posts: 766
    edited March 2016

    LisaAlissa, my dad and father in law are also farmers. My husband works for Bayer crop science and he's well versed in conventional farming vs organic. They've toured organic farms and a lot of them fertilize with manure. Some even use chemicals and just don't tell the consumer. I had heard that before but my husband and coworkers confirmed it when they went on the tours. At any rate, some are good farmers and some not so good. Anyway, I used to use Bath and Body Works products and my LE therapist told me NOT to use those because they're organic and because of the bacteria. Also, I've had C Diff three times and both my GI doc and and Infectious Disease doc told me not to eat organic because of bacteria. Anyway, I'm not saying I'm an organic basher. I don't tell people what to eat or use on their bodies. I'm just following my doctor's advice, and that of my LE therapist. I just wanted to know if any of you know if it's safe to use the Old Spice antiperspirant as long as it's not irritating my pits? And is it ok to use a mildly scented soap? Thanks for the replies so far! XOXO

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  • glennie19
    glennie19 Member Posts: 6,398
    edited March 2016

    I use Softsoap Pomegranate & mango infusion body wash. It smells great, and I have no problems with irritation from it. I have really dry, sensitive skin and just can't use any bar soap at all.

    I live in FL,, and when it is hot, I sweat under my Swell spot that is across my truncal LE,, and I often get some pimples from that sweating. (I used to get pimples there before BC, from sweating, so it's not new, but now I need to make sure that the pimples don't get worse and turn into cellulitis. I've used liquid anti-bacterial soap,, and my LE therapist recommended Clean & Clear essentials foaming facial cleanser. Works great for keeping those pimples under control.

    I think if the Old Spice is working for you, and not causing irritation, why not keep using it? Different things work for different people.

    I was told not to shave my armpit with a regular razor,, to use an electric one. Well, the electric razor irritated my underarm, so I went back to carefully usually a regular razor with lots of soap. Works fine,, no irritation at all. Different strokes for different folk.

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  • LisaAlissa
    LisaAlissa Member Posts: 1,092
    edited March 2016

    Sounds like you have a more-than-good handle on "organic."

    I'd go with your MO's advice. My MO said that as long as you don't have open wounds and whatever-it-is doesn't irritate your skin, to use whatever I liked.

    Currently, I like Dove's Deep Moisture body wash, Cetaphil Cleanser and Mitchum antiperspirant. In the kitchen I use Dawn for dishes and Ivory liquid soap. Charlie's Soap for clothes.

    HTH,

    LisaAlissa

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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    "Some even use chemicals and just don't tell the consumer".

    Bastards.

    Any chance you can advise us of which farms? Totally understand if you can't say publicly, so no worries if you can't answer.

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  • Luvmydobies
    Luvmydobies Member Posts: 766
    edited March 2016

    Glennie, thanks for responding. I think I'll look for that Sotfsoap. Pomegranate and mango sounds like it smells awesome! I can't use bar soap either. I haven't had issues with pimples but will keep all these things in mind for future reference. The Old Spice I use smells like fruit punch like I said. Thank goodness it doesn't smell really manly! My husband said he wouldn't use the scent have because it's too fruity. Haha! I also have to use a regular razor for the same reason you do.


    Thank you also Lisa for telling me what you use. I like to try different things and these all help!


    As far as the organic stuff is concerned, I am well versed thanks to the hubby! Leggo, you are correct in using "bastards"! It really opened my eyes to the fact they charge so much for organic, and what you're getting my not actually be "organic". Unfortunately I can't disclose what farms they went to. I will tell you the area which was the Midwest as well as places on the west coast. But really, I'm sure it's pretty widespread. Again, NOT bashing organic at all. I will say this though: please don't think conventional farming is all bad. The things they use go through rigorous testing and most of the things they do use were always here also. Yes some are man made but again they go through a lot of tests before they can even get it labeled. I only knew all of this after my husband started working in the industry and it's been eye opening. Same as organic after they visited all those farms.
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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    Thank you for responding Luvmydobies. I appreciate the info.

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  • LisaAlissa
    LisaAlissa Member Posts: 1,092
    edited March 2016

    my only question is "which Midwest?" Depending on who you talk to, Midwest is as far east as Ohio and Indiana (parts of which are in the eastern time zone), and as far west as Nebraska and Kansas (parts of which are in the Mountain time zone).

    West coast" limits the discussion to three particular states.

    So without mentioning a particular farm, could you be a bit more specific?

    Thanks!

    LisaAlissa

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  • Luvmydobies
    Luvmydobies Member Posts: 766
    edited March 2016

    LisaAlissa, they saw farms in Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. Theyalso went to California but I'm not sure which part. I know they looked at table grapes and almonds there though. Just FYI.

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  • LisaAlissa
    LisaAlissa Member Posts: 1,092
    edited March 2016

    Thanks, Luvmydobies

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  • ceanna
    ceanna Member Posts: 5,270
    edited March 2016

    I try to buy organic and wish all farmland was used organically, but realistically, no organic foods are going to be totally free from the chemicals in use today, even if the farmer is not trying to be deceptive. I come from a farming family and know that the overdrift from sprays, rainwater drainage across large acreage and regions, and cross contamination in shipping, storage, and even in many produce dept. and stands, means that you're going to have to choose, clean or peel foods carefully.

    Farmers that claim organic and are violating protocol won't last long. Their cooperatives and local buyers will soon learn about it. I'm not sure why luvmydobies was asked twice to name names as such. Good farmers are the norm and those not being honest can any where. Just my experience and opinion. I mean no offense.

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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    I asked because I'm sick and tired of being deceived. Whether farms are misleading on purpose or not, I'm paying an exorbitant price for organic produce and if I'm paying extra for pesticide tainted junk, I want to know and was wondering how wide-spread the issue was. Now I know, so now I can just avoid the dirty 12 altogether (or 14 or 16 or whatever it's up to now). Honestly, I'm to the point now where I expect dishonesty in everything from our health and beauty products to our food. I despise feeling that way, but that's what happens when you're consistently lied to.

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  • ceanna
    ceanna Member Posts: 5,270
    edited March 2016

    leggo, I can understand your feelings. Perhaps you can find a local farmer or grow your own. There are trustworthy producers of food or co-ops out there. I try to buy organically, but don't sweat it when I can't find (especially out of season foods). Genetically, our bodies are not programmed to be eating produce and fruit out of season. Protein is another issue, but try to find wild caught salmon, antibiotic free meats, and do what you can. I often wonder whether it matters or not in the long run--there are many people with some very bad habits who live to be 100!!!!

    Luvmydobies, back to your original question. I am also sensitive to so many products and have concerns about chemicals. It's the same as my theory with foods--do what you can to avoid the worst. If you found something that works and your doctor says okay, I'd use it as the step to the next even better thing I can find. Products change their composition often, and the more safe things we demand, the sooner they reach the market.

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  • ChiSandy
    ChiSandy Member Posts: 12,133
    edited March 2016

    “Natural” beauty & personal care products carry an additional danger besides bacterial & fungal contaminants: allergens, as well as irritants which could affect sensitive skin. I learned this the hard way after an Yves Rocher “party” (like a Tupperware or Pampered Chef party) 20 yrs ago--bought avocado masque & strawberry face wash. Broke out in a rash worse than the time I tried Retin-A. The only way you can be sure is with a patch test and trial-and-error. I have found that the scent in Dove Body Wash (as well as ROC facial products, which my dermatologist recommended if I wanted to try retinoids) made me sneeze, and smelled like stale perfume.

    But I have successfully used L’Occitaine Citrus Verbena shower gel with no problem whatsoever--no irritation, no lingering scent. I moisturize with CeraVe for my body, Curel Itch Defense for my hands, and LaRoche-Posay products for my face: either Rosaliac CC cream SPF50 or Pigmentclair moisturizer SPF50 for day; if not getting ready to go out till late afternoon, Rosaliac moisturizer (pale green to counteract redness); at bedtime, either the Rosaliac or Toleriane sensitive skin moisturizer. For body sunscreen, LaRoche-Posay Anthelios SPF 60, Neutrogena SPF 100 or MD Skincare SPF50+, whichever I have lying around. (All recommended by the handout my derm gave me). The Rosaliac line is for redness & sensitivity, the Pigmentclair for age spots (both originally recommended by a pharmacist in Bayeux, Normandy), the Toleriane for those either sensitive or who want as few additives as possible. I buy mine at Target, but I can usually find it cheaper when I travel to Europe (except Switzerland & the UK, which don’t use the Euro). I cleanse my face with Garnier Micellar Water (cheaper than the micellar towelettes, gentler than most makeup removers). I no longer exfoliate--my derm told me my skin is too dry & sensitive for that.

    No parabens in any of them, at least acc. to the ingredients lists on the labels.

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  • Luvmydobies
    Luvmydobies Member Posts: 766
    edited March 2016

    Thank you Ceanna, and thank you ChiSandy for all the helpful details!

    Wow, I certainly did not mean to open a can of worms with the organic issues! So sorry for doing that! Eat what you're comfortable eating and remember what I said about all the pesticides and the testing they go through. They aren't as bad as society claims. Trust me! I'm not going to get into a debate. Yes, there are dangerous insecticides used for certain things, but we avoid those around our house. Chemicals are used for treating our cancer too and I'm thankful we have them. To each their own and I REALLY do appreciate the info on the skin care products.

    Also, I think a lot of people are just genetically healthy if that makes any sense. My grandmother, great grandmother, great uncle and great aunt on my dad's side of the family all lived over 95 and they did not eat or use organic products. They ate mostly fried foods and ate desert after dinner every day. My dad is adopted so I unfortunately didn't inherit those genes.



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  • barb1319
    barb1319 Member Posts: 27
    edited March 2016

    Due to three years of oral aromatase inhibitor Arimidex, I had problems with thinning of tissue in the vaginal area, and began to find most shower gel/bath gel irritating and causing some cystitis-like symptoms similar to bladder infections. The doctors weren't much help, but I found that the health food store carried a line of shower gels/lotions, etc whichare non-GMO and were paraben, phthalate- and sodium laurel sulfate-free. Those are the three biggest offenders. The manufacturer is Andalou.com. Check them out, as I also have moderate Lymphedema and these are wonderful nonirritating products.

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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    Luvmydobies, I'm glad you said something. No can of worms....this stuff is really important to me. We have one organic market....one, and it's a big city. You've saved me probably hundreds of dollars on my grocery bill. I live in a virtual produce desert, NOTHING is local. If I want to make a 2 hour road trip, I can buy from the Hutterites, but even there, I kind of laughed out loud when they were selling "organic" honey. (They must keep their bees on little leashes to make sure they don't wander off their little clean patch ). Ceanna, I agree, if I want good stuff, I better start gardening.

    Luvmydobies, not sure if you've ever seen this thread. Lots of suggestions for good product there. Hope it helps a little.

    https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/79/topics...


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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    Barb, totally agree. Parabens are not the only toxin we need to worry about. I'd be so lost without the Environmental Working Group. I'm soooo grateful they're around.

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  • barb1319
    barb1319 Member Posts: 27
    edited March 2016

    If you are that far from a good health food store, Amazon carries the Andalou products, but I think you can order from the website too. Pricey, but a big tube of the shower gel at about $10 lasts about a month of daily, sudsy showers. Amazon will charge shipping, even with the Prime membership, , as they do with some products. Also, I always buy organic with the Dirty Dozen produce. Grapes, green pepper, kale (that superfood is one of them, but great in smoothies), pears, apples, etc are healthy, but full of pesticides. Some GMO products actually have us eating ROUNDUP weed killer, as a Chicago Tribune article recently reported. Sad but true...........

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  • barb1319
    barb1319 Member Posts: 27
    edited March 2016

    Leggo, I'm a Master Gardener, and if you garden at all, use the organic seed! Burpee has a whole line of them now. I never used pesticides or chemical fertilizer, but until last year was unaware that the SEED must be organic too

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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    Thanks Barb. I've been mulling this over the last couple days and think I might give it a try. I may make use of your expertise....hope you don't mind. I don't think I have the stamina to do much but grow a few things in containers. Maybe just the things we use the most. I'm very uncomfortable eating a non-organic pepper or cherry tomatoes so I'm going to start with those. Does that sound feasible for container growing or is that wishful thinking? Also, I live in a shitty Zone 2. Too late to even get going? Wondering if they'll grow indoors? Now I'm talking crazy :)

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  • amygil81
    amygil81 Member Posts: 165
    edited March 2016

    When I had my mastectomy years ago, a lady in my support group recommended Kiss My Face Olive Oil Soaps. It's made from just plain olive oil with alkali, with different fragrances or with none. I tried it in my first shower after I got my bandages off. It felt soothing on my drain tube punctures and my brand new mastectomy scar. I've used it ever since. Hey guess what, I got LE anyway, though I very much doubt it's from that soap. If you're looking around for alternatives, you might as well try a bar. Hope this helps.

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  • glennie19
    glennie19 Member Posts: 6,398
    edited March 2016

    Leggo: tomatoes and peppers can do very well in container gardening. I'm no expert, but there is lots of info out there about container gardening. There is a Gardening thread on this forum too. Perhaps someone there can help.

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  • ksusan
    ksusan Member Posts: 4,505
    edited March 2016

    Kale is quite easy to grow as well.

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  • quinnofmn
    quinnofmn Member Posts: 64
    edited March 2016

    thanks for the idea of kale, maybe swiss chard too. I no longer sweat fron radiated side but have trouble with other side as I try to be aluminum free. Use Tom's with some success

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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    Thanks Glennie. I'm going to give it a shot and see if I can grow enough to feed us all. Gonna check out the gardening thread too.

    Good advice ladies.....Thank you.

    As far as deodorant/antiperspirants go, I honestly don't know anybody who still has sweat/odor from their radiated side. You may find out, in the near future, you won't need to worry about it anymore. Also, you can never go wrong with a good, unscented, castille soap, but be forewarned, more bathroom cleaning required....it's messy, leaves an oily residue EVERYWHERE.

    And just cos I thought it was funny, autocorrect really wanted to change "radiated" to "roasted". Lol.

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  • glennie19
    glennie19 Member Posts: 6,398
    edited March 2016

    leggo, you may want to look for Gardener's Supply Company catalog. They have lots of ideas for growing in containers and other small spaces. Some of it is pricey,, but their stuff is good quality and long lasting. You can at least get some ideas from them. I just got the newest catalog and lots on growing tomatoes.

    www.gardeners.com

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  • leggo
    leggo Member Posts: 3,293
    edited March 2016

    Thanks Glennie. Doesn't look like they ship to Canada, but I appreciate the effort to give me the info.

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