Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK.
Currently, a third of women admit they have never checked their breasts. With a vast majority of women admitting that a lack of education has made them believe that breast cancer does not affect women over the age of 40.
But with October being at the forefront of Breast Cancer Awareness Month- the message from everyone involved in breast cancer services is, if you’re worried about a breast change, take action immediately.
This also means that Breast Cancer Awareness month has never sent out a more vital message about early detection, which improves your chances of successful treatment.
The importance of checking your breasts
Eight in ten women have never checked themselves for breast cancer symptoms, according to research by The Estée Lauder Companies. What's more, one in seven have never seen or been shown how to check their breasts.
According to TV doctor Dr Zoe Williams, self-checking at home is simple: ‘There’s a real lack of confidence about checking breasts,’ she says.
‘Often I think that we are all overthinking it. It is really about getting to know your own breasts so you can identify if something is odd. Do it once a month ideally – getting your period can serve as a reminder. Have a good look from the front for changes in size, shape, a rash or lumps, then from side to side. Repeat with your hands on your head, then with your hands on the hips and your shoulders rolled forward.'
'Next use three fingers and your palm to press the skin,' she continues. 'Use circular movements to compress the breast tissue. Feel the nipple and all the way up to the collarbone and back down. Finally feel the side of the breast up to the armpit.’
Best breast cancer awareness beauty buys
What’s even better is that you can support Breast Cancer Awareness month by shopping your favourite beauty products. Many brands have pledged to donate proceeds to help raise vital funds for breast cancer charities.
That's what we call painting the town pink - all with a click of the mouse...
Pregnancy skincare specialists, Mama Mio, are releasing a limited edition version of their Tummy Rub Butter. Enriched with shea butter and vitamin E, this moisturiser is an autumn must have for those with or without a bump. The best part is, Mama Mio will be donating 20% of the sale price to CoppaFeel! Breast Cancer Awareness Charity.
Now that the temperature is getting lower, nourish parched hands with this portable 100 ml limited-edition moisiturising creme. Not only does this vegan product contain plant hydrators, but it also supports a great cause. Aveda’s goal is to raise $350,000 globally in support of cruelty-free breast cancer research through the sale of this limited-edition product and fundraising efforts. For this, Aveda will donate $10 from each purchase to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation®.
To honour Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Get Harley x PCA Skin have partnered up to turn PCA Skin’s iconic Hyaluronic Lip Booster pink. The product will be available through Get Harley for £20 (normally £44) with all proceeds going to The Pink Ribbon Foundation.
For those looking to hold on to their summer tans for as long as possible, Skinny Tan x CoppaFeel! has the perfect solution. This product not only delivers a streak free tan but it also contributes to educating women on the importance of checking your boobs. With each purchase, Skinny Tan has pledged to donate £1 to CoppaFeel!
This light and floral scent has recently received a limited edition re vamp. For a limited time only, the iconic British Perfume brand will be selling its Peony & Blush Suede Cologne with a pink bottle top. This is to commemorate the brand’s actions in support of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. With every purchase, Jo Malone will be donating £20 to help aid in the world’s most promising research to eradicate breast cancer.
Every year, Avon plays an active part in supporting Breast Cancer Awareness as much as possible. This year is not different with the brand launching not only one but two exclusive products that champion this cause. The first of these being its Breast Cancer Mystery Beauty Box. This is a mystery gift with a promise to give back. Each box includes Avon best-sellers varying from box to box, the contents will range from mascaras, lipsticks and highlighters, to eyeliners, shadow sticks and nail polish. The brand has pledged to donate 100% of all proceeds to Look Good Feel Better and CoppaFeel!
More than a self-care moment, this limited edition body cream supports The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign. With tangy notes of ginger and its velvety-soft texture, this product serves as a daily reminder to see yourself with love.
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