The first rays of spring, a café terrace, a walk by the water: sunshine is good for the soul. After a mastectomy, it still has its place in your life. It simply asks for a little care where your scar is concerned.
The good news: protecting it is not complicated. A few habits are enough, and they quickly become second nature.
A scar keeps on changing
A scar does not freeze the day the stitches come out. For months, it keeps transforming: it goes from bright pink to pale pink, softens, then gradually fades. During this time, the skin that forms it is more fragile.
When exposed to UV, a recent scar can darken and stay more visible. This is called pigmentation. Common recommendations advise protecting it from the sun for at least the first year, and often longer. Every skin has its own pace: ask your medical team what timeframe is right for you.
After radiotherapy
Skin that has received radiation often stays drier and more sensitive, sometimes long after treatment ends. It deserves the same gentleness as the scar, and sometimes more. Your care team is best placed to tell you when and how to expose it again.
Good everyday habits
The best sunscreen is still fabric. A top, a covering swimsuit or a sarong protects far better than cream alone.
- Cover your scar with clothing whenever you are in the sun.
- On uncovered areas, apply a very high protection sunscreen (SPF 50+).
- Reapply every two hours, and after every swim.
- Stay in the shade during the hottest hours of the day.
- Moisturise your skin in the evening: well nourished skin copes better with the seasons.
Not just in summer
UV rays never take a holiday. They pass through clouds, bounce off snow, water and sand, and some even pass through windows. A day skiing, an afternoon on a terrace in March or a long car journey by the window all count too.
No need to live in the shade, though. Just keep the clothing and sunscreen habit all year round, as you would for your face.
And what about your prosthesis?
Your nipple prosthesis is resistant to water and sweat: you can keep it on at the beach or the pool. Two small precautions to keep it looking good and well attached:
- Apply the prosthesis first, on clean skin without any cream, then put sunscreen around it, never underneath: cream stops the adhesive from holding.
- When you are not wearing it, keep it in its box, away from heat and direct light. Avoid leaving it on a towel in full sun or in a hot car.
Listen to your skin
A scar that turns red, itches, darkens or feels tight after a day outdoors is sending you a message. Let it rest in the shade, moisturise it, and talk to your doctor or dermatologist if it does not settle.
In short
Covering clothes, a very high protection sunscreen reapplied often, shade during the hottest hours, and these habits kept all year round. With that, you can enjoy the sun with peace of mind, and let your scar settle at its own pace. Any questions? Write to us, we are here for that.