As the field of esthetics continues to evolve, its potential to profoundly impact the lives of those undergoing medical treatments, particularly cancer, becomes increasingly evident. Incorporating oncology esthetics into your practice not only broadens your professional expertise, but also allows you to offer unparalleled care and compassion to a vulnerable and often underserved population. Here’s an exploration of when and why you should consider adding oncology esthetics to your practice.
“I had no idea this type of help was available. I felt lost, left out and ignored. No spa I talked with was able to help me until I met my angel, an oncology-trained esthetician. Thank you for helping me feel normal and valuable. I am your client forever!” - Client Testimonial
“I walked in yesterday as a dried-out husk, but walked out feeling moist and supple, and woke this morning feeling like I’d just left the service. I’m going to tell everyone I know about my oncology trained “esthetician magician.” - Client Testimonial
As the field of esthetics continues to evolve, its potential to profoundly impact the lives of those undergoing medical treatments, particularly cancer, becomes increasingly evident. Incorporating oncology esthetics into your practice not only broadens your professional expertise, but also allows you to offer unparalleled care and compassion to a vulnerable and often underserved population. Here’s an exploration of when and why you should consider adding oncology esthetics to your practice.
Understanding Oncology Esthetics
Oncology esthetics is a specialized field that focuses on providing safe, effective skin care treatments tailored to the unique needs of cancer patients. This requires a deep understanding of how various cancer treatments affect the skin, hair and nails, and knowing how to adjust esthetic procedures to avoid causing harm or discomfort. Oncology estheticians address the specific dermatological and emotional challenges faced by cancer patients, playing a crucial role in enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.
Related: 5 Things You Didn't Know About Oncology Esthetics
When to Add Oncology Esthetics to Your Practice
1. Growing Demand and Awareness
With the rising incidences of cancer worldwide, more individuals are undergoing treatments that can have significant side effects on their skin. This growing patient population is increasingly seeking skin care professionals who understand their unique needs.
If you notice an increase in inquiries from clients currently undergoing cancer treatment or survivors, it might be the right time to consider adding oncology esthetics to your repertoire. Also, if you aren’t already, you should be asking every client if they have or have had cancer. I think you will be surprised how often clients won’t tell us unless asked.
“I had no idea this type of help was available. I felt lost, left out and ignored. No spa I talked with was able to help me until I met my angel, an oncology-trained esthetician. Thank you for helping me feel normal and valuable. I am your client forever!” - Client Testimonial
2. Expanding Your Client Base
If you’re looking to expand your client base, oncology esthetics offers a unique opportunity. By catering to cancer patients and survivors, you open your practice to a demographic that’s actively seeking specialized care. This can help distinguish your practice in a competitive market, positioning you as a compassionate and knowledgeable professional dedicated to holistic wellness.
3. Personal Fulfillment and Professional Growth
If you seek greater professional fulfillment and the opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of others, oncology esthetics can be incredibly rewarding. Providing care to individuals at such a critical time in their lives requires empathy, understanding and specialized knowledge.
This enhances your skill set, and offers deep personal satisfaction as you help clients regain confidence and comfort in their own skin.
Why Add Oncology Esthetics to Your Practice
1. Filling a Gap in Client Care
Cancer treatments including chemotherapy, radiation and surgery often result in various skin-related side effects such as dryness, sensitivity, rashes and scarring. Traditional esthetic practices may not be suitable for these conditions.
By specializing in oncology esthetics, you can offer tailored treatments that alleviate discomfort, promote healing and improve the quality of life for your clients.
2. Enhancing Client Trust and Loyalty
Clients undergoing cancer treatment or who are in remission will deeply appreciate your specialized knowledge and care. Building a reputation as an oncology esthetician fosters trust and loyalty, as clients feel understood and safe in your hands. This trust can lead to long-term relationships and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
“I walked in yesterday as a dried-out husk, but walked out feeling moist and supple, and woke this morning feeling like I’d just left the service. I’m going to tell everyone I know about my oncology trained “esthetician magician.” - Client Testimonial
3. Increasing Your Client Database
When you can care for a client with cancer, they will tell everyone, including family, friends and their medical team. It can open the door to many more clients.
4. Collaboration with Healthcare Providers
Oncology estheticians often work closely with healthcare providers, including oncologists, radiologists and dermatologists. This collaboration ensures that the treatments provided are safe and complementary to medical care.
Establishing such professional relationships can enhance your credibility and open up new avenues for referrals.
5. Continuing Education and Professional Development
The field of oncology esthetics is continually evolving, with ongoing research and new treatment modalities emerging.
By pursuing advanced training and certification in oncology esthetics, you commit to ongoing professional development, staying at the forefront of the latest techniques and best practices. This dedication to learning benefits your clients and keeps your practice dynamic and innovative.
The Beauty of Oncology Esthetics
Oncology esthetics is a rewarding, beautiful and beneficial addition to your current esthetic skills. It offers opportunities for personal growth, job satisfaction, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
It enables you to meet the unique skin care needs of a growing patient population, build trust and loyalty with clients and collaborate effectively with healthcare providers. Most importantly, it allows you to offer compassionate care that enhances individuals' overall well-being during one of the most challenging times in their lives.
With the rising demand for specialized esthetic services, now is the perfect time to integrate oncology esthetics into your practice, positioning yourself as a leader in holistic, patient-centered skin care and wellness.
Becky Kuehn serves as the visionary founder of Oncology Spa Solutions® and is the esteemed author of "Life Changing Esthetics®." Her core mission revolves around enlightening spa, salon, and medical professionals on how to alleviate the often devastating side effects of cancer treatments. She stands as the foremost, leading advocate and intermediary for estheticians trained in holistic and oncology practices, whether they work within hospital treatment centers or collaborate with oncology specialists.
