In our quest for beauty and self-care, it’s essential not to overlook our health. Breast cancer is a pervasive concern for many women, and early detection is key to successful treatment. This blog post aims to shed light on the importance of breast self-exams and how you can seamlessly incorporate this health-conscious practice into your beauty routine—whether you’re tanning by the pool or getting a wax at your favourite spa.

Why Breast Self-Exams?

Breast self-exams are a simple yet powerful tool in the early detection of breast cancer. By regularly examining your breasts, you become familiar with their normal appearance and can quickly identify any changes. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

The Tanning Session: A Moment for Self-Exams

Tanning can be a relaxing way to unwind, but it also provides an excellent opportunity for a discreet self-exam. As you apply sunscreen or moisturizer, take a few extra minutes to check for any unusual lumps, bumps, or changes in your breast tissue. Use the pads of your fingers to gently feel for any abnormalities, and be sure to check the entire breast, including the underarm area.

Waxing: Turning a Routine into a Ritual

A waxing session can be a bit uncomfortable, but it can also be turned into a health-focused ritual. Before or after your wax, take a moment to stand in front of the mirror and visually inspect your breasts. Look for changes in size, shape, or skin texture. Remember, the key is consistency—make breast self-exams a regular part of your beauty routine.

How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

1. Visual Inspection: Stand in front of a mirror and inspect your breasts for any changes in size, shape, or colour. Look for dimpling, puckering, or changes in the skin texture.

2. Raise Your Arms: While still in front of the mirror, raise your arms and check for the same changes. Sometimes, the positioning of the arms can reveal alterations in the breast tissue.

3. Manual Examination: Lie down and use the pads of your fingers to explore your breast tissue. Use a circular motion, covering the entire breast and underarm area. Pay attention to any lumps, hard knots, or changes in texture.

4. Check Your Nipples: Examine your nipples for any unusual discharge, changes in shape, or inversion.

Establishing a Routine

To make breast self-exams a habit, consider setting a reminder on your phone or associating it with another routine activity, like applying lotion after tanning or checking your appearance after waxing.

Conclusion

Beauty and health are not mutually exclusive. By incorporating breast self-exams into your beauty routine, you’re taking a proactive step in caring for yourself. Remember, early detection of breast cancer can save lives, and a few minutes spent on self-exams can make a significant difference in your well-being. So, the next time you’re enjoying some self-care through tanning or waxing, take a moment to care for your health as well. Your future self will thank you.

For more information visit nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer/