Skin Deep - Youthful skin and nails while on Tamox and AI's

Michelle_in_cornland · January 2018

Most of you on the Hormonal Forum know me, and that I like to investigate supplements, vitamins, foods, hair products, and skin products to keep my body functioning at its optimal level. I am starting this thread to get input on what products we use to help salvage our skin and nails while taking Tamoxifen and AI's. What products have you tried, what do you think is working, what do you think is not working? I am a beauty product junkie, with a niece that is an esthetician (skin care specialist). Throughout the years, I have tried everything from Walmart peel off masks, to high end beauty products. Currently, I am using a regime of Serious Skincare Vitamin C Products, Ultramare, Creamerum, Bioelements on my face, and regular Vaseline on my hands. I am allergic to lanolin and stay away from items with alot of fragrance. For my age, I don't have alot of wrinkles, but I do have some expression lines between my eyebrows and am not ready for botox yet. I stay out of the sun, but do have sun spots on my hands. My nails are okay, but can peel and split. I will share my "fake nail" secrets with you later on.

So, what do you gals and guys use? I am going to make a list of what works, and who is using it, for those that may have questions. Let's stay youthful together.......

This is what works and the person's ID name

1. Vitamin C Serum by Serious Skincare on HSN - brighten's facial skin - Michelle_in_Cornland

Michelle_in_cornland · January 2018

Also, besides vaseline for my hands, Crepe Resist in the Vitamin C line by Serious Skincare is very good. Avon has a Shea Butter hand cream that is wonderful as well and it has a divine fragrance. Here is the link to the Avon hand cream. Sometimes it goes on sale and you can buy it half price. https://www.avon.com/product/planet-spa-blissfully-nourishing-body-butter-55619

ksusan · January 2018

I use a Kiss My Face olive oil bar on my face, Burt's Bees Avocado Butter Pre-Shampoo Hair Treatment occasionally, Desert Essence All Natural Organic Tea Tree Replenishing Shampoo, and unscented Cetaphil moisturizer, usually Cetaphil Dermacontrol Moisturizer SPF 30 on my face and other exposed areas and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream for Dry/Sensitive Skin, Fragrance Free on my body, especially the radiated area and surgical scars. Badger Sunscreen Lip Balm. That's pretty much it. When possible, I use Environmental Working Group's site (https://www.ewg.org/skindeep) to check products for carcinogens and hormone disruptors. I loved my Molton Brown and other bath products, but they're chock full of parabens and phthalates.

Michelle_in_cornland · January 2018

Has anyone tried Retinol products? I have not tried them yet, but wondering how effective they are??

dtad · January 2018

Hi everyone...I'm not taking an anti hormone but I do know a lot about skincare. Retinol is essential as we age. You can get a strong form of it by prescription or a weaker form OTC. Vitamin C and peptides are next. Make sure you use a product that is in a dark bottle rather than a jar. These ingredients are very unstable when in a jar. The best moisturizer is pure hylauronic acid. You can get it on Amazon. Just make sure it is 100 percent. Let me know if you have any questions.

Michelle_in_cornland · January 2018

Dtad, what Retinol product do you use? I am a huge Vitamin C user and gycolic user in the warmer months. I have the "11" forming between my eyebrows and am not liking it.

Capecodgirl · January 2018

I have recently started using essential oils-- oregano, frankincense and myrrh mixed in with jojoba oil to moisturize both my face and body. I started using these to try to get rid of age/sun spots on my hands and crepe skin on my legs (above knees). I am 56 and do not have a lot of wrinkles, but my skin is very dry. I put it on after showering (without drying off first). I can say that my skin is much softer and more hydrated. With regard to minimizing or getting rid of the sun spots and crepey (sp?) skin, I will post again if something amazing happens. One can hope....

Indigo29 · January 2018

Michelle in cornland - Thankyou for starting this thread. There are so many products out there and it's difficult to know what to use especially now that we have to be on these anti estrogen drugs.

Ksusan, dtad and capecodgirl I'll certainly be looking into your suggestions - every little helps!!

Michelle_in_cornland · January 2018

Indigo, it was my pleasure to start this thread. It is an important area, and a separate consideration from hair. I started one for hair as well, because we, as a group, need information on how to maintain not only our health, but the things that give us an identity. My daughter just graduated from high school in 2016, and then I was diagnosed with breast cancer three months later. I am just now getting my groove back, after raising my kids. And, I want to look good, for myself. I don't know if it is possible to erase the signs of aging, but I plan on trying. There are so many of us, that sharing information on products that can help us look and feel good is important.

Another product that I like by Serious Skincare is a Vitamin C thermal scrub. I bought it on HSN in a kit last year, and get the C products auto shipped. The best deals come in bundles in that line of products, and are always well priced when Jennifer Flavin (Sylvester Stallone's wife) is on the show.

Got to go take care of my skin, girls.....

dtad · January 2018

Hi Michelle. I have been using prescription retinol for many years. I started because of acne but soon realized its the best anti aging ingredient there is. Peptides are good for the 11 lines. Let me know if you want some good examples. I'm very familiar with Serious skincare on HSN. Some of their products are good but be careful with that line. My biggest complaint with it is you absolutely do NOT need that many products! There are many other good skincare lines that combine all those ingredients in one product. I don't claim to be an expert but it is sort of my passion and have become very informed about hair and skin products.

capecodgirl...yes essential oils are great for moisturization. However they are somewhat limited as far as anti-aging. Some of my favorites are jojoba, coconut and argan.

PS Michelle..Exfoliation is also a must!

Beatmon · January 2018

I have been using Rodan & Fields for my facial skin care. It is pricey but products like the eye cream last a long time. Dark spots on my face have lightened a lot. (I don’t sell the stuff). My skin looks pretty good for 65.

Unfortunately my nails are crap. Did fine for 2 years...then. Bang. Tried everything including dermatologist and podiatrist for my toes. I really miss having decent looking nails. This week i bit the bullet and had the powder type done. Love the polish.

Michelle_in_cornland · January 2018

Capecod, my knowledge is very limited in the essential oil department. So, I don't have much to contribute in that arena. I do like coconut oil for moisturizing the hands, but the Vaseline keeps my hands protected and skin supple.

Dtad, names of products that you use would be beneficial. I am starting a list at the top of the page. Thanks for your contributions.

Beatmom, I use Butter London, Sally Hansen's Hard as Nails buff color polish, Morgan Taylor, and solar oil. I don't have professional acrylics or anything like that done to my nails. I wrecked my nails in December with nail glue. Currently, I am keeping my nails covered with several coats of Butter London polish or Morgan Taylor polish. My husband complains if I use OPI or any other type of strong smelling polish. I gave away all my polish except the ones that I mentioned. I am going to do a tutorial on how to make your nails look great...on the cheap...for one night only.

TaRenee · January 2018

I would love to try a retinol product but have no idea which brand to try. I use oil of olay for my face right now. It’s not bad as far as a moisturizer. I’m not wild about it tho.

Thanks Michelle for starting this. I look forward to hearing some good tips

Ghionik · January 2018

Thanks Michelle for starting this page. Xoxo

dtad · January 2018

Hi guys...I buy my products from Joella Milan. She is a skin care expert from California. Just google her name and her website will pop up. You can ask her anything via Email. She sells only the best products on the markets. I don't really believe in using one line exclusively. I try to use the best products from different lines. The general rule is cleanse, exfoliate, serums, moisturizers and then sunscreen for daytime. IMO sunscreen is imperative. I would not even bother with everything else if you don't use it. The sun is our enemy as far as aging. Anti hormones tend to speed up the aging process so good skincare is really important. Everyone has their own individual needs so I would advise you to ask Joella about which products are appropriate. Everyone needs a form of retinol, vitamin C and peptides. You do not have to use the highest end products but would advise against using the lowest end. Always read the ingredients! IMO the best products have the fewest ingredients in them. Try to use products that have aloe vera as the first ingredient rather than water. The ingredients are listed in the order of the highest percentage. So for example if you are looking for a vitamin C product, you want to see it added first rather than last. Speaking of vitamin C, be careful because it is very unstable. It is not effective if its in a jar. It must be in a dark bottle. I could go on and on, but I don't like long posts. Please feel free to ask me anything else or to PM for individual questions. Hope this helps! PS I'm 64 and my skin looks better than it did 20 years ago. It never too late to start.

Michelle_in_cornland · January 2018

Dtad, I check out those products from Joella Milan. They are a bit pricey. I want to find a good retinol product for my expression lines. I have loads of vitamin C, glycolic face washes, peptides and my skin does look good for my age. I had some neutrogena retinol that I am using up to see how it works. Have you ever heard of "Frownies?"

dtad · January 2018

Michelle...Joella Milans products might look expensive but there are coupon codes for all brands and you get an extra 5 dollars off 6 times/month called Joella's bucks. Also there are many all inclusive lines on the site where one product has everything you need. You are much better off buying one good product rather than several cheaper ones. The best retinol product is a prescription tretinoin. Remember what I said about anti aging products being broken down in jars. Another good product line is Paula's Choice. Its cheaper than Joella Milan. They have a few good retinol products. Yes I have heard of Frownies. The ingredients are good but I would be skeptical about the percentages of the ingredients at that cost. Again, great thread. Take care.

Michelle_in_cornland · February 2018

There is a "two for" $30 at Sam's Club of the Neutrogena retinol products. I have to do something because these 11's are looking back at me!!!! Probably going to try the Neutrogena for a while and work my way up to prescription strength or botox.

TWills · February 2018

I just started adding some Dermalogica products to my regimen. I’ve used Bioelements for years and love it but thought I add in some different products and I really like them. I would never pay retail though, wowzer, I’m able to get it from a professional supply and it’s still high. I have to say though as with most professional products it goes a long way because it’s so concentrated so that really makes a difference. Also they really work so it shouldn’t be a waisted purchase and not get used. Ulta has good deals sometimes. So far I have the Resurfacing Cleanser, Antioxidant Hydramist, Active Moist, and the Ultracalming Cleanse if my face gets sensitive. It hasn't so far though. In Bioelements I use Quick Refiner which is a gel exfoliater and the one for eyes as well and a Vitamin C serum. I never used anything but cleanser regularly before chemo and now Tamoxifen because my skin was crazy oily and not a sign of a wrinkle. Now I have “signs of aging” around my mouth and eyes. Took my boobs and gave me wrinkles, thanks cancer! WTH

dtad · February 2018

Hi Michelle...Just remember that you get what you pay for. Neutrogena retinol products have low concentrations of retinol. Its a good way for your skin to get used to it but you need higher concentrations eventually to be effective. Your 11 lines need peptides as well. Good luck in this anti aging battle!

Michelle_in_cornland · February 2018

I have been very lucky in the wrinkles department. Since, I don't expose my skin to the sun (as a sunbather), I don't have crow's feet, and minimal vertical wrinkles. I work vitamin C, marine skin therapy, peptides plus other ingredients into my skin vigorously working the brow area, every night. So far, I have not invested in a retinol product and am waiting to see the benefits of the products that I have on hand. I also have Bioelements and Dermalogica on hand, through my esthetician niece, that help as well.

dtad · February 2018

Hi again. The sun is our enemy when it comes to aging. Daily sunscreen is a must! IMO retinol is the most important anti aging ingredient there is. However the concentration is important. Start low and work your way up. Vitamin C will help with brightness. There are good products on the market that have most of what you need combined. Sounds like you are on a good path. Its never too late. My skin texture is better now than it was 20 years ago due to sun protection and a good skin care routine....

TWills · February 2018

I forgot to add that I wear SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense sunscreen, spf 50. It has a slight tint and I use this as my foundation most of the time and it lasts forever!Started using it before when my skin was oily but it still works great. I have super sensitive skin, not as much as when it was oily strangely enough.

Michelle_in_cornland · February 2018

Dtad, I am a purist and like layering on the different serums and creams. It gives me more time to massage the furrowed areas between my brows. I like to really "work in" products and engage my muscle memory.

Twills, where do professionals find Skinceuticals? Cosmoprof or Salon Centric?

TWills · February 2018

Neither have it, I found they're prices pretty decent though so I didn't bother with registering as a professional to be able to order it at a discount. I only use the one product so far though. Some Derm offices, PS’s, and med spas have it, their site has a search feature.

Shelly52 · February 2018

Hello! Sleepless night helped me to find this thread. Yay! Take pity on me. I am using no Vit C products, serums. or peptides. That, and I rarely even wash my face before I fall into bed. Now that I’ve confessed. I’m ready to make a change. I’ve noticed significant change to my skin since I started the AIs. Sad really.

Would you mind giving me specific info on what to Vit C product to buy? Peptide? Thank you!

dtad · February 2018

Shelly...its never too late to start a good skincare regimen. IMO these are the musts in order of importance...daily sunscreen, retinol, peptides and vitamin C. Also a good cleanser and exfoliation. There are a lot of good products and a lot of bad ones. I don't believe you have to buy the most expensive ones, but I also don't think the inexpensive ones are reliable due to low concentrations of ingredients. You have to make sure these products are in closed dark bottles rather than jars. These ingredients are very unstable, especially vitamin C. I like the Skin 2 products on Joella Milans website. There are coupon codes and monthly specials. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have. Good luck!

EastcoastTS · February 2018

I've used SkinCeuticals Vit C for 10+ years. It's not cheap but lasts a long time. And good reviews for this brand. But certainly others out there. Many websites to advise on which is worth the $, etc.

Anyone out here doing other things? Laser, microneedling, peels?

Michelle_in_cornland · February 2018

Three things that age your skin fast are 1. Sun 2. Smoking 3. Not drinking enough water. When those are in check, move onto the skin care regime. No matter which products you choose, using them consistently is the #1 factor in obtaining results.

My niece is a well known esthetician, and I am her test subject. She has had her own skin care practice for 6 years, been a full time esthetician for 11. She works very closely with Bioelements. Prior to her starting her own practice, I began testing the decongestant cleanser, quick refiner (exfoliator leave on lightweight gel), measured micrograins (exfoliant that you rinse off), sleepwear (retinol product), active moisture (hydration), power peptide spray, sun diffusing protector.

Last year, I started to use some serious skincare products, and have been very impressed. They have a vitamin C serum, wash, exfoliant, moisturizer with sunscreen, and I find that this keeps my skin bright and youthful. They have an ultra mare sea based serum that helps with overall tone and wrinkles. They also have peptides in their line in both a cream and a gel.

I am a huge fan of layering products and working them well into your skin. Massage alone will help diminish fine lines and wrinkles. But, you need product for "slip"and for hydrating wrinkles and sagging skin.

I use the Mia face brush for cleansing my skin, which helps get the blood circulating and deep cleans the skin. If I want a deep peel, I go see my niece, but most of the time I use a glycolic product (which I have several) to refresh my skin. My only experience with microcurrent was with the Facemaster, which did work, but left my face feeling weird and that was several years ago.

"Rub it in, rub in in." Then, "work, work, work, work, work, work" like the Rihanna song goes, for long lasting results.

StubbornDog · February 2018

I cannot use retinol, unfortunately. Those of you who can are lucky. It gives me a rash, and if I go out in the sun after I have applied it, even if I am using a sunscreen, it becomes very painful. And once it is on my skin, I can't even wash it off. It seems to absorb. The rash and sun sensitivity last for a few days after application. I wish there was an alternative for me.

Michelle_in_cornland · February 2018

Stubborn, read my above post. I don't use a retinol at this time either. You cannot have a facial and be on a retinol product. If using retinol, you have to have a very high level of sunscreen or have permanent skin damage. There are other products that are not as harsh as retinol. Vitamin C, Peptides, etc. Peptides help your skin produce more collagen.

Skin Deep - Youthful skin and nails while on Tamox and AI's

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