Ann wrote: << I really want to go south for a week before the dreaded
mastectomy, but I
don't want to burn or stay out of the sun. How soon after chemo is it okay
to go in the sun?>>

I am not sure, but think the effects of chemo are greatest source of difficulty
from 7 to 10 days after it is given.  I really am not sure about
sun-sensitivity.  I didn't do anything special although recall having used sun
screen if I were going to be outside for any extended period of time.  I think
it is best to check with your oncologist and/or medical staff at your treatment
facility.

Janet finished chemo in June 03, and was told that her skin would be
sensitive for around a year.

We went on a Med. Cruise in August and, whilst she was cautious, it was
impossible to avoid the sun completely. She seems to be OK.

I went walking late in the afternoon, the day of my first treatment.  My face
turned bright red but was pretty much okay the next day.  

My guess is that if you're really careful those first days after your treatment
and then use a good sunscreen, you should be fine.  

In any event, it just makes good sense to not sit and bake.  Sun exposure
increases everyone's risk of both squamous and basil cell carcinomas not to
mention melanomas (which are not nearly as easy to treat as breast cancer)!

Sassy