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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Did anyone come up with a way to deal with the arm pit hair after surgery or anything I can do before?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Poetry Texas
March 20
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A MyBCTeam Member

Just wait until you are cleared to shave. I actually ound it very enpowering and btw long armpit hair was the rag in Holly Wood a few years ago. You don't want any chances of infection.

March 21
A MyBCTeam Member

I lost my armpit hair during chemo. It started growing back right before I started radiation. They gave me radiation on my chest, armpit, and neck. Everywhere the radiation touched the skin on my armpit is now hair free. I just have a few stray hairs at the very top and bottom of my armpit now.

March 24
A MyBCTeam Member

I had surgery first then chemo- chemo took care of the issue, lol! Otherwise, best to wait until cleared by the surgeon.

March 21
MyBCTeam

How can you safely manage armpit hair after breast cancer surgery?

After lymph node removal surgery, many people find safe ways to handle armpit hair. The key is waiting until your surgeon clears you and choosing methods that minimize infection risk.

Timing matters: There's no standard timeline, so ask your surgeon when Show Full Answer

How can you safely manage armpit hair after breast cancer surgery?

After lymph node removal surgery, many people find safe ways to handle armpit hair. The key is waiting until your surgeon clears you and choosing methods that minimize infection risk.

Timing matters: There's no standard timeline, so ask your surgeon when it's safe to start hair removal based on your specific procedure and healing progress.

Safe hair removal options include:

* Electric razors - Most recommended by doctors since they reduce the risk of nicks and cuts
* Traditional razors with extra care - Some members use them successfully by being very gentle, using thick shaving cream with aloe or sensitive formulas, and checking the area carefully afterward (especially important if you have numbness)
* Chemical depilatories - Do a patch test first to check for irritation, as these can sometimes cause inflammation

Methods to avoid: Waxing may be too harsh and could damage sensitive skin or cause irritation that leads to lymphedema.

Some MyBCTeam members noticed they needed less shaving after surgery, with one sharing they haven't needed deodorant or shaving on the affected side. Others found success with specific products like Schick Silk Reflections razors that have soap borders around the blades.

The most important step is talking with your oncologist before trying any hair removal method. They can recommend what's safest based on your surgery type and healing progress.

March 20
A MyBCTeam Member

With my treatment my hair is thinning and since I had surgery last June, I really haven’t shaved under my arm on the surgery side. I tried once but the itch from growth was too much. I can deal with the 4 hairs that remain.

March 23

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