Introduction
It’s a sad statistic that one in two of us will experience a cancer diagnosis at some point in our lives. With someone receiving a diagnosis every ninety seconds in the UK, it’s likely that we will all know someone in this position. A cancer diagnosis is lifechanging; bringing uncertainty and many emotional and physical challenges. Traditional beauty treatments don’t always cater for the unique needs of those undergoing treatment or recovering from surgery. Oncology aesthetics is a specialised field that offers safe, soothing and compassionate skincare and wellness treatments tailored to individuals facing cancer. At The Country Spa we understand the importance of self-care and dignity throughout this journey and are committed to providing gentle, supportive care.
What is Oncology Aesthetics?
Many patients going through cancer treatment find themselves overwhelmed and can benefit greatly from supportive care. Oncology aesthetics can provide welcome benefits such as easing symptoms, improving skin and their overall health and restoring a sense of well-being. Many complimentary therapies are not typically incorporated into standard patient care in most doctor’s offices, hospitals or cancer centres and this is such a shame. Qualified oncology aesthetic therapists can help to complete the circle of care that is provided by complimenting the conventional cancer treatments and allowing the patient to feel nurtured in a safe environment. This holistic approach empowers the client, allowing them to enjoy a degree of normality over their life whilst easing the inconvenience and discomfort of many treatment side effects. Oncology trained therapists use gentle, non-toxic and deeply nourishing products to restore skin health while prioritising safety and comfort.
How can we help?
There are many treatments that can be modified to make them comfortable and safe for people going through cancer treatment or recovering. Many aspects are taken into consideration such as surgery performed, types of drugs administered and radiotherapy. Surgery may make some positions for treatments uncomfortable, so we modify things to accommodate that. We have fully adjustable treatment couches, lots of supportive, soft pillows and cushions and the training to know what to do to make our client most comfortable. Chemotherapy drugs, i.e. chemotherapy can have a huge variety of side effects and we need to consider those also. Low blood counts often dictate when a person can and can not attend for treatment. Typically the blood cell count will be at its lowest 7 – 10 days after chemotherapy, so any treatments should be avoided at this time. Some drugs are administered intravenously and require a small “port-a-cath” or PICC line to be fitted thus reducing the need for frequent needle insertions causing damage to already fragile skin. These devices remain attached to the patient during active treatment so we need to be mindful when dealing with this type of patient.
Other drugs can be affected by ingredients contained in skincare and other products, reducing their effectiveness. We have to be aware of the type of treatment the client is having so that we can ensure we do not interfere with the success of the medical cancer treatment. These ingredients are called endocrine disrupters and include parabens (a preservative), siloxanes (to soften, smooth and moisten – found in some moisturisers and deodorants), octinoxate (UV filter), phthalates (holds colour and scent in cosmetics), synthetic musks (scents) and triclosan (preservative). We work with products that have been specifically manufactured to cater for clients requiring special care. Our Repechage Hydra Dew Pure range offers a safe, but deeply nourishing option for clients who need to avoid endocrine disrupters in their products. Radiation therapy can cause discolouration of the area being treated, radiation dermatitis (which can be painful and uncomfortable) and fatigue. There are other issues too, but these are the main ones. Great care must be taken especially if the skin is compromised as infection may occur. This would be detrimental as the immune system will already be compromised and scarring or disfigurement may occur. The client may also be experiencing fatigue, so treatment times may be shortened so as not to overdo it for the client.
Oncology treatments we can offer would be:
Skin treatments/facials. Using the safest, purest products we can offer our clients their facial treatments in comfortable surroundings. The facial may be shortened slightly to ensure we don’t fatigue the client. Treatment routines may be modified depending on the skin’s tolerance. Exfoliation will probably be removed as skin may be fragile. Massage will be light and not include strong fragrance as some chemotherapy can cause nausea. Hydration is super important during cancer treatment to keep skin supple and flexible. We can use some of our facial tools as they are safe. i.e. LED, Kansa wand, silver ball massagers, but other electrical treatments may not be safe to use on a particular client. i.e. steam, galvanic or faradic. Everyone is different and great care must be taken with each individual client.
Body Treatments may be an option. It depends on whether or not surgery has taken place. This may affect the client’s positioning on our treatment couch, but there is always a solution. Have any lymph glands been removed? If so, this will restrict the treatment offered, but not affect the client’s enjoyment in any way. No massage should be performed within the quadrant of the body with lymph gland removal for risk of causing lymphoedema. That being said, massage is so good for anyone affected by cancer as the power of touch is so healing. Just having someone gently stroke your skin can relieve pain and anxiety which leads to less stress, relaxation and better sleep. Skin is nourished, softened and made more comfortable due to the hydrating products used; again all selected for their effectiveness and safety.
Other treatments such as reflexology can have a very positive effect on the client’s psyche, helping with relaxation, pain management and anxiety reduction. Massaging the feet can be very therapeutic and by stimulating various reflex points in the feet, the client can really experience an improved sense of wellbeing. This is an excellent treatment to have done between chemotherapy sessions as it may lessen the severity of the side effects. It can also aid a restful sleep afterwards.
Indian Head Massage can be really soothing and promote better sleep. Nerve endings are calmed and people often fall asleep during this treatment. Our compassionate approach means that everything is taken into consideration.
You will be greeted in a friendly manner, the same as we would welcome all our clients. You will not be made to feel different, but we will respect that you may feel self-conscious and vulnerable. You will be offered privacy to adjust clothing, headbands, wigs etc and you will not be rushed. We move at your pace and we only do what is safe and comfortable for you on that particular day. The salon will be warm, but not too hot for you. Fragrance will be kept to a minimum to reduce any feelings of nausea and you will immediately feel welcome and cared for.
With the myriad of cancers and treatments out there, we need to be sure we’re offering you the best possible care so it is essential that we get to know each other a bit better before you arrive for treatment. This is generally done through a phone call, zoom call (better) or in person at the salon. You get to meet me and ask any questions and I get a chance to find out more about your cancer journey. Then together we can create a treatment plan to help you navigate through your cancer treatment.
And finally, oncology aesthetics is more than just modified beauty treatments – it’s an act of kindness, a step towards healing, and a way to regain a sense of self. Whether for yourself or a loved one, consider the restorative benefits of oncology aesthetics as part of the journey to wellbeing. At The Country Spa, we feel privileged to support you with care, compassion and expertise.
If you or someone you love would like to know more, please do reach out to us today to learn about how we can support you.
Or email us at hello@thecountryspa.co.uk