Aluminium-free deodorants

Fanali 25 days ago

1 reply
34 subscribers
131 views

Having had a mastectomy during Covid I have had little interaction with others in a similar position. I was the only one in the ward after the operation and my assigned breast nurse was on holiday for a month between posts. Consequently I just had to get on with things myself and even after 2 months it was I that contacted my designated nurse, not her contacting me, to ask about a prosthetic breast. Consequently I had no confidence in contacting her and she has never enquired after my recovery. In fairness, the Breast Centre has arranged that I will have a mammogram every 18 months and the first one last October was clear.

However, there are some things that I have learned from others who have had surgery that I was totally unaware of. One of these is concerning deodorants. It seems that I should not use one that contains aluminium. Firstly, why is this? Secondly, does anyone have any recommendations? I usually use either a roll-on or stick type.

Someone else has told me that she receives a new prosthetic every 2 years, for free. Is this a general thing? Or dependent on where you live? I have had mine for just over 2 and a half years, and bought a second one myself. As I have now lost over a stone and a half in weight I am now quite mis-matched and would like to downsize, but the cost of replacing them is expensive.

Hopefully someone will be able to provide me with some answers, or tell me of their similar experiences.

Many thanks.

Barbara L-Macmillan 24 days ago

Hi Fanali,

Thank you for getting in touch.

My name is Barbara and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses here on the Macmillan Support Line. I appreciate that being diagnosed with breast cancer during Covid times presented a difficult challenge with meeting your team and building a rapport. But I hope that your recovery from the mastectomy is going well, and it is good to know your mammogram follow up is in place.

The concern about the safety of using deodorants, containing aluminium, is a frequently asked question. There is no firm medical evidence or research to say there is a link between breast cancer and the use of deodorants or anti-perspirants containing aluminium. Therefore, it is considered safe to use deodorants from a reputable source as suggested here.

I am sorry to hear that you have experienced difficulties with the fitting of your breast prosthesis. Breast Cancer Now have information about getting a prosthesis and the fitting clinics, which are usually based within the breast unit. The prosthesis is available free of charge through the NHS and are replaced if the lady’s weight changes or the prosthesis is showing signs of wear and tear. Although you have mentioned concerns about contacting your breast care nurse, I want to encourage you to contact either your nurse, or the clinic directly to arrange any future fitting appointments, so that you get full access to the available products and service. Plus, this will save you any personal cost.

Often it can be helpful to meet with others who have experienced a similar situation, you could ask your breast care nurse if any breast cancer support groups run locally that you may join. Alternatively, take a look at the Macmillan In Your Area to see what is available. Breast Care Now offer different levels of support, such as the Moving Forward course or Someone Like Me, you can decide if you’d prefer group support, individual support, face to face or online interaction.

I hope this information is helpful.

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We are available 7 days a week 8am – 8pm on 0808 808 000.

With best wishes

Barbara L Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

Ref: BL/RH

Disclaimer

Aluminium-free deodorants