Using Efudex
I am only on my first week and have purchased the items needed as per reading the tips, etc. which has been really helpful. However I am sorry I am a bit confused about the cleaning and healing. Should I be using my Cetaphil cleanser on the Efudex site or just water.
I have been reading to use Vanicream lotion. Should I start this the day after I have completed using the Efudex ? And should I be using Vaseline or Aquaphor also ? Sorry for my confusion. Any info would be greatly appreciate.
it can be terribly confusing--I know exactly how you feel.
If your doctor gave you specifics about what products to use during treatment, you should follow his/her advice. If not, I can tell you what my doctor always advises. She tells me that, while I am treating my skin, I should only use water on the treated area. The first time I was prescribed Efudex, she told me to rinse the area with water and pat dry--don't use any soaps, creams, lotions, or shower gels--only water for the duration of the treatment. It was difficult to get used to that regimen, but I got great results. Each morning before it was time to reapply the cream, I rinsed the skin and gently patted dry. After allowing the area to dry for at least 30 minutes, I applied the cream. At night, when I showered, I let the water rinse off my skin, but I didn't use soap or shower gels. Again, I would pat dry and let it air dry completely before reapplying the cream for bedtime.
The Vaseline and Aquaphor are usually suggested by doctors to cope with the dryness and itching that can start in the first couple of weeks. Not all doctors recommend it--be sure and check with yours. I use Vanicream once I am done with treatment to help make the healing phase more comfortable.
I know that it can feel as clear as mud--I am sorry. If you have more questions, don't hesitate to ask.
We are here for you!
April, SkinCancer.net, ModeratorYour info is very helpful. Thank You so much April.
