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Oncology Trained Esthetics
What is Oncology Trained Esthetics is an expanded practice of spa services and incorporates the specific need of patients with or recovering from cancer, including skin dryness & sensitivities, swelling, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, and stress.
WHY ONCOLOGY TRAINED ESTHETICS?
A cancer diagnosis changes a person forever. Working with the cancer society for just under two years now, I have seen the changes and the impact this diagnosis has made on women of all ages.
I truly believe the power of touch makes all the difference in the world. I’ve learned how to bring my knowledge,kindness, compassion, and love for what I do all through touch, coupled the best ingredients and products for each individual client. I truly care about every clients well being that comes to my spa room.
My goal is to make the biggest difference in my clients life while helping with their process anyway I can.
We live in such a chaotic world where we are all so busy, work too much and very often we can barely keep track of our own needs much less anyone else’s. My belief is that if we could all add a little LOVE back into our world, we could make a change in our lives and the lives of those around us. That is why I became an Oncology Trained Esthetician. I wanted to give back. I wanted to use my skills for a higher purpose. I wanted to truly make an impact in someone’s life.
I’ve been working as a Look Good Feel Better facilitator with the cancer society for nearly two years. The impact these patients have had on my life has changed me forever.
MY PROMISE TO MY CLIENTS
- Being clearly and intentionally in the moment and present with every client.
- Improving quality of life for others
- Make life more wonderful for those who are suffering
- Integrity: show up and always do what’s right
- Every client deserves my utmost attention and care.
- Attention to detail for each client's specific needs.
Oncology guests need modifications during their spa treatments for the following:
Ingredient sensitivity to products because cancer-fighting drugs change your sense of taste/smell as well as cause the skin to become irritated and intolerant to previously used skin care products.
Body temperature & room heat because a patient's body temperature can difficult to keep warm & comfortable due to medications and their side effects.
Exfoliating without harsh scrubs or peels because the skin will be thin and sensitized and require a more gentle approach to skincare.
Oncology Trained Esthetics in San Antonio, Texas
Did you know that there are ways to reduce the effects of anti-cancer treatments on your skin?
Safe products for personal care for Oncology Esthetics
The below information is intended for cancer patients and survivors:
Cleansers….Use a creamy cleanser for sensitive skin free of synthetic fragrance, dyes, sodium Laurel sulfates, alcohol and parabens. I don’t recommend any types cleansing scrubs during treatment, and suggest starting them after treatment if desired, by adding a bit to a creamy cleanser and then going to half and half, maybe then moving up to full strength.
Toners….Toners should be alcohol free with hydrating and soothing ingredients. Look for products with ingredients such organic calendula, tamanu, and organic witch hazel.
Facial Moisturizer….Easily absorbed oils are a good choice for a facial moisturizer. Choose oils free of fillers, synthetics, dyes and fragrance. Fewer ingredients means less chance of skin irritations.
Dry, cracked cuticles are a side effect of many chemotherapy drugs. Soak hands in warmed jojoba oil. Products that include Shea butter and calendula are great choices, as well.
Scars….Tamanu oil, Calendula oil soften and restore skin and scars once the healing process begins. Remember to always check with your physician before adding any oils or products to scars or surgical sites.
Washcloths….Sponges and washcloths can be breeding grounds for bacteria. Use a microfiber or soft cloth that can be laundered daily.
Shaving….consider an electric shaver for less chance of skin irritations. We want to avoid any cuts which could lead to an infection when the client’s immune system is compromised. Also, avoid manicures, pedicures, and cutting of the cuticles during treatment.
Full body exfoliation….Gentle full body exfoliation is important to help keep skin free of dry, cracked areas. A gentle exfoliating glove or washcloth along with olive oil or any edible oil is great. Rub in soft circular motions.
Sunscreens….Many medications make the skin more photosensitive (highly sensitive to sunlight) so sunscreens are of utmost importance. Sunscreens can also help prevent hyper-pigmentation (brown spots) from becoming darker. Use a broad spectrum physical sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Our usual recommendations are SPF of 15 for everyday use and SPF of 30 when out in the sun.
Shampoos and Conditioners….when hair starts to grow back is a good time to start using shampoos and conditioners which are free of known irritants such as synthetic fragrance, sulfates, and parabens.
Nighttime rituals are important…
Pillowcases: consider using a satin or silk pillowcase for a better feel on fragile skin. All sheets, towels and clothes should be washed in detergents free of fragrance and dyes.
Hydrating Products....are wonderful at night as the body rests. Please note that some people are very sensitive to smells during treatment and may not be able to tolerate even natural scents.
Essential oils....are highly potent in pure form and should be used with caution under the direction of an expert. Some experts believe that certain essential oils such as lavender and tea tree oil are phytoestrogenic (mimic estrogen), so should be avoided in their pure form by those with estrogen positive cancers, but additional studies are needed.
PLEASE NOTE:
**Please speak to your doctors before trying any of these tips at home.**