Efudex on lower lip
I have AC on my lower lip and was given Efudex to start using. Truthfully, I am scared to death to start using it but I will. I was going to start on 4/30/21. Instructions are to use it twice a day for 7 days. My son is getting married on July 3rd and I do not want my lips to be swollen, red and peeling. Is this enough time for healing to take place? About how long does it take to heal? I have 2 areas on lower lip-one on each side of the lip. The center of the lower lip is cle
I understand how you much stress you are under. Efudex can be quite a challenge. It sounds like your doctor has given you a rather short treatment time compared to most others. If you are only treating for a week, you will likely be done with the worst of the peeling by July. It generally takes a couple of months for the redness to complete fade when I treat my face, but we all react very differently to the cream. You might want to have a conversation with your doctor and see if he/she wants you to start now or wait until after the wedding.
I am including a couple of articles with tips and advice for healing.
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/tips-for-efudex-users
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/efudex-side-effects-tips
Please keep us posted! We are here for you!
April, SkinCancer.net, ModeratorCan I eat and drink normally after the cream dries on my lips or should I not really eat or drink after?
This is such a great question! I used Efudex above my lips a few years ago, and I made sure to wait at least an hour or so after application to eat or drink. When possible, I ate beforehand. Straws were my best friend during this time, too. One trick I have seen used is to apply a thin layer of Vaseline on the lips below the area to which you are applying Efudex. This will serve as a barrier to help prevent the cream from getting into your mouth.
I am including with tips for using Efudex. It might come in handy as you treat.
https://skincancer.net/life-with-skin-cancer/tips-for-efudex-users
April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator
