It has been proven, massage, holistic and beauty therapy treatments have a positive effect on a person going through cancer therapy. It is no mystery that when you look good you feel good or at least a little better, Time out to relax and switch off. A soothing massage or confidence boosting make up can work wonders. So why should there be any concern?
If someone is having drug therapy such as chemotherapy their immune system is compromised and at different times during their treatment it can be worse than others. If a beauty/hair therapist has a cold or a tummy bug which has not been bad enough to keep them home, this could cause a much more serious problem for the client. So a phone call to postpone or change in staff member is crucial.
During drug therapy there can be many side effects caused by the treatment. Extremely dry skin, breakouts, irritation, sensitivity, nail peeling and discoloration just to name a few. These side effects should change the way a beauty treatment is carried out, what products should be used and whether or not their doctor should be consulted or referred to.
If surgery or radiation has been carried out and lymph nodes removed or radiated, there will need to be changes made to treatments like massage,waxing manicures, pedicures and body treatments.
Due to the nodes been removed or treated with radiation there may be a risk of lymphoedema occurring. Even if the client is in remission and their cancer was as far as 15 or more years ago, there are still precautions to be taken.
What is Lymphoedema? Lymphoedema,, is a condition of localized swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system functions as a critical portion of the body's immune system and returns interstitial fluid to the bloodstream. Lymphedema is most frequently a complication of cancer treatment or parasitic infections, but it can also be seen in a number of genetic disorders. Though incurable and progressive, a number of treatments can improve symptoms. Tissues with lymphedema are at high risk of infection because the lymphatic system has been compromised.
So, what can we do?
Ensure your beauty therapist is trained in Oncology Aesthetics.
If not be sure you have compliance with your doctor to have such treatments and are not at risk.
It is imperative that you tell your therapist of any condition either now or in the past.
Training is widely available for both hair and beauty therapists, holistic and cosmetology. For further details contact louise@oti-oncologytraining.com,
www.oti-oncologytraining.com