In a small pink room near the Invalides, four women affected by cancer take their places in front of a mirror. In front of them, kits of products, onco-esthetician Sylvie and Thomas, Chanel makeup artist, brought together by the Belle et Bien association.
Their objective goes far beyond simple makeup: they come to relearn gestures abandoned since the announcement of the illness. One will summarize later, quoted by ELLE,.
Makeup and cancer: taming a new face
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can dull the complexion, mark dark circles, weaken the skin, and cause hair, eyelashes and eyebrows to fall out. Many describe a shock in front of the mirror and a femininity put on hold.
Socio-aesthetics responds to this upheaval: corrective makeup is recognized by the National Cancer Institute as supportive care. It helps to reduce dark circles, redness, scars and to rebuild, little by little, self-confidence and self-esteem.
Onco-aesthetic workshops: when makeup restores confidence
At Belle et Bien, a free workshop lasts around two hours in a small group, with an onco-beautician and a professional makeup artist. Skin care, complexion, eyebrows, lips: each step is explained, adapted to side effects and carried out with the equipment provided.
The League Against Cancer organizes on the same principle. According to data from Jinko.care, more than 80% of participants in this type of session say they feel more confident afterwards.
Where to find these makeup workshops to regain confidence
In France, this support exists in many hospitals, at the League against Cancer or within associations such as Belle et Bien. The MÊME brand also offers, with its Maison MÊME, skin diagnostics, makeup workshops and colorimetry sessions.
Other initiatives complete this journey, such as the scalp massage and turban tying workshops led by Les Franjynes, or the sessions where MaquilleMonKrâne transforms bare skulls into works of art. For many, choosing a scarf or a line of eyeliner becomes a very concrete way to regain control of your image.
How does makeup help with cancer?
By lightly working on the complexion, eyes and mouth with suitable products, it allows you to find known landmarks and feel more presentable.
Are the onco-aesthetic workshops free?
Those offered by Belle et Bien, the League against Cancer or EVEN are generally free, upon registration, and reserved for people affected by the disease.
Is it safe to wear makeup during chemotherapy?
Socio-estheticians recommend very gentle, hypoallergenic formulas, cleaning brushes and sponges well, and seeking the advice of the healthcare team in the event of a reaction.
