What Is An Oncology Esthetician?

 The beauty industry is an ever growing, diverse field that offers an array of services to a number of people and groups. As this industry begins to grow and expand, specialized groups have begun to form, such as Oncology Estheticians, that allow the beauty industry to be tailored to the needs of those with special conditions. 

Today we will review the compassionate background of oncology estheticians and what separates them from your normal provider. 

What separates oncology estheticians from other estheticians?

At the root of it, an esthetician is a person who provides skincare services to individuals looking to improve or maintain the health and wellbeing of their skin. An oncology esthetician provides the same care but on a specialized level, catering to those who are currently in a battle with cancer, as well as those who may be recovering from the side effects of their triumphs. 

Oncology estheticians have specialized training

One of the primary differences between a standard esthetician and an oncology esthetician is the additional training, tests, and certifications that come with this specialized field. Simply having a baseline knowledge of cancer and the skin's subsequent needs as a result of receiving cancer treatments will not earn you the title of oncology esthetician. 

An oncology trained esthetician is more than just a way to provide esthetic services. It’s the act of learning how the beauty industry can provide life changing services to those going through what could be some of the hardest moments in their lives.  

Knowledge of cancer and the needs of clients

In addition to knowing how the skin reacts during cancer treatments, oncology estheticians need to know the complex modality behind the varying forms of cancer. For example breast cancer, skin cancer, and other forms of cancer all have different needs. Additionally, not all cancer is treated the same. Becoming knowledgeable of each and every form of treatment their clients may be going through is integral to the success of their skincare treatments. 

There are more conditions to work around with oncology esthetics clients

Unfortunately cancer and cancer treatments will most likely affect every organ in the body. Seeing as skin is your largest organ, it will come as no shock to discover that, in addition to the impacts cancer and cancer treatments have on your other organs, your skin will also be heavily impacted. That is why the skin treatments provided by oncology estheticians make such an impact to those who need their services. 

Are there different services provided by oncology estheticians?

While oncology skin care is still heavily rooted in the basic practices and services offered by traditional estheticians, the extent of these services are not the same. A day spa with these specialized skin care technicians results in services specifically tailored to the needs of cancer patients. 

For example, hydrating facials are offered as both a standard spa treatment and an oncology-based skincare practice. Additionally, lymphatic drainage techniques (the process of draining the lymph nodes) can be found in both practices, but are more regularly used in treating oncology patients to help boost their immune system. 

The amount of stimulating products or services is very limited

Unfortunately, the spectrum for skincare treatments for those undergoing chemotherapy or other cancer treatments are not as inclusive as many other esthetician services. This is due in part by the heightened sensitivity that the skin now has, as well as the skin's potential reaction to added exfoliants, chemicals, or other facial treatments. Exfoliants can cause additional strain to the area, creating more issues to the skin than the positive results desired. 

You may offer specialized services to cancer patients

At the end of the day, being an oncology esthetician means being compassionate, being patient, and being well informed on your client’s needs. Making sure to tailor your services to be inclusive can make a world of difference to those struggling to find a piece of home – a piece of themselves – within all of the chaos. Not only are there skincare treatments, there are massage techniques and training programs that can help improve the lives of those trying to navigate their cancer journey. 

How to specialize in oncology esthetics

If specializing in this rewarding career field is something you’re considering, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Below are our primary tips to start your journey. 

Understand the education and state licensing requirements

With most licenses and certifications, the requirements to carry this title will vary from state to state within the United States. The first step on the way to becoming a certified oncology esthetician is to become familiar with the educational requirements and the guidelines your state has set up to become licensed. 

Discover training programs in oncology esthetics

Once you’re aware of what’s required, create a game plan in order to start your educational journey. Become immersed in the field, exposing yourself to as many classes and training programs you can, this way not only are you prepared on an educational level, but now you will also have real life, hands on experiences. 

Look for oncology estheticians and learn from them 

To add to your immersion, do not hesitate to contact a professional and discuss their field with them. Remember: it’s not only what you know, but who you know that can open up opportunities as well as valuable real life experiences.

Bosses in Beauty is here to guide all beauty businesses on their road to success!

Feel a calling for helping cancer patients feel better about themselves and the skin they’re in? Bosses In Beauty is here to guide you along all of your beauty business endeavors so that you can be the reason behind some life changing moments. For an abundance of resources, as well as our programs, visit our website.