Jen - The Happy Skin Project – JuJu's Basics

Jen - The Happy Skin Project

By Judith Jones August 09, 2021

For the launch of our expanded Happy Skin Project we worked with both cancer survivors and cancer patients to give an in depth look into why this project and its simple goal: get quality soap (the cornerstone of any routine) in patients’ hands at no cost to them, is a vital part of better treatment and patient outcomes moving forward. We are so grateful they have allowed us to share their experience and stories below.

Tell Us Your Cancer / Chemotherapy / Radiation / or any story that involves your time with compromised skin.

I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, HER2 + at 34 years old. My treatment plan included chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and radiation. My chemotherapy involved six rounds of Carboplatin and Taxotere, as well as a year of Herceptin and Perjeta. I didn't realize how sensitive my already sensitive skin would become during and after chemo. My skin composition and tolerance changed so much that I couldn't apply make-up or use the same products I used prior to cancer. It seemed that cancer continued to take away my comfort zones, and it was frustrating. One memory was that I won a photoshoot with my sister post-treatment. They had a make up artist there to glam us up, and while I should have been enjoying the VIP treatment, I was actually dreading what the make-up would do to my skin. Sure enough, my skin broke out the next day!

How did chemotherapy affect your skin? How did you feel about your skin?

I didn't break out during chemo, but not being able to find products that my skin would tolerate was really frustrating after chemo finished. I'd break out with EVERYTHING. So much so, I often avoided fun gatherings where skin care items may be tested or applied, because I thought for sure it would break me out.

Was there anything that helped your skin during that time?

I used Dr. Bronner's Castile Soap, because that seemed to be the only thing that wouldn't dry me out or make me break out. I also started using oils for moisturizers because my face would react to lotions.

Did you feel that you had good options for your skin? Do you wish that there were more options for skincare during chemotherapy?

No one at the hospital educated me on skincare - I wish there had been an element of proactiveness in order for me to learn more! Instead, it felt like I was also guessing, which led me just to say no to trying new things because I got to the point where I didn't trust any product.

Our hope is that this project will bring tangible solutions and awareness around the broad lack of affordable (or suitable) options for people undergoing treatment for Cancer. Our long term goal is for The Happy Skin Project to be truly impactful nationwide by providing data around better patient outcomes and lobbying for high quality body care products to be covered by insurance as a preventative measure.

Community options launch Aug 11th.

Bar Soap Is Cool

Skin Care Basics

Bar Soap Is Cool

Skin Care Basics