Update on an Update---sorta.

Behold---the face after another round of Zyclara.  Hard to see what it really looks like via a picture (and from my iPhone, no less). 

I tried to filter the color out so that you could see my scar (and now my wrinkles really stand out!), but it's still difficult to really see the effects. 

First, my skin is extra SUPER dry!  I currently have the thick Vitamin E moisturizer on, which is kind of a grody feeling. Feels good on my sandpaper, though, so I won't complain.  That's something I've noticed a lot of is how dry it has been.  There are some flaky areas, but nothing I haven't had before during a cold winter. 

Second, I have a place above my lip (actually looks like an extension of my upper lip peak) that is colored like a sore, but just very flat and dry.  There are a few other places that are smaller, similar...but only I would be able to point them out to you. 

I am waiting for an appointment with my new doctor---one that my surgeon recommended.  One reason I decided to make this switch (other than the recommendation) is the fact that my surgeon wanted me to use Efudex on my face and on my SCC site.  The other derm decided I didn't need that and prescribed the Imiquimod.  One thing I am learning (yes, old dogs can learn new tricks!) is that I am in control of ME.  I can question, discuss, and even argue (carefully) with my doctors.  I employ them.  And even if I LIKE them, they still are supposed to be working with me to figure these things out.  I am learning more as I go through this--I research, I experience--and at the end of the day, when I am uncertain about something I have to have a voice for my own good.

So...that's somewhat of an update.  Not a whole lot to report, but that's not always a bad thing!

Almost There!

I can see the sunshine... but with a good dose of sunscreen. (sarcasm alert) I have almost always worn sunscreen, whether  with my  makeup, or apurposely slathered from the SPF bottle. My husband made mention maybe that's why I have these issues--- its the sunscreen that did it! While I am always up for a juicy government conspiracy, this comment didn't even make me laugh.

I am currently experiencing major dehydration on my face--- feels gross. My hair guru said she could tell my face appeared 'tight', and not that youthful gravity-has-not-affected-skin tight, but sucked dry of all moisture tight. I have some flakes, some redness, and definitely an older appearance. Several bumps have broken through... will be interested in seeing what they are.  One on my cheek is definitely something to look at, as the spot that is on my nose. I bought a small 'goes on dry' sunscreen (70 SPF, I think) to leave on my desk at school. Since I have recess duty, I smear it on about 20-30 minutes before we prepare to leave  class.

I have a picture that I will upload later if I can, just so everyone can see the reddish places I am talking about. I hope everyone is enjoying this fine spring weather. Our countdown is on for winter break! Enjoy life, people!

Another Round Has Started

Howdy!  I am writing a quick update.  Not much to report.  As of this morning, I have applied Zyclara twice.  A few things I noticed right before going into this round:  some bumps that resembled pimples, but weren't, had popped up.  Definitely the one on my nose...it's still there.  I am applying cream to the whole face, which has made my cheeks somewhat rosier. 

This is a pic I took after applying the second day of Zylcara.
I still dislike my scar on my nose.  You can also see that my nose seems to be somewhat fluffier. 
The lining of my nose gets really dry feeling and then I start having sinus issues.  This started at Day 1 of treatment.  It then progresses to grody drainage, with the need to hock loogies quite often (sorry for the gross illustration, but it's true).    Anyway, I'm interested in seeing the 'end' results, although I will be doing a second round for the face area sans nose (since I did just the nose first round).  Whatever the outcome, I will be considering my options much more carefully and more thoughtfully, without a rush to making a determination until I'm 100% positive of my choice.

On a sidenote:  dilemma 1 has presented itself to the household.  The daughter wants to tan a few times in a tanning bed to add some color before prom.  I spoke with her (doubt she listened) and she doesn't like the idea of spray ons (she said every person that she has seen with a spray tan appears orange-tinged).  I also told her that spray ons don't leave scars.  She has pursued debate with research and statistics of childhood burns, sun exposure, etc.  It will work out, no doubt, but still...

That's it for quick update.  So, for all you tanners and non-tanners, have a great weekend!