How can I safely have a facial if I can’t wear a mask? by Samantha Kool, LE, COE
Oncology Skincare Services During COVID by Samantha Kool, LE, COE
Skincare treatments are an important part of self-care before, during and after cancer. Cancer and related treatments can wreak havoc on our skin. Keeping the skin barrier hydrated and intact plays an integral role in preventing infection from entering the body through microscopic tears that can be caused by conditions including but not limited to dry skin, thinning skin, irritated and inflamed skin, skin rashes and other localized and systemic reactions. COVID has changed the way most everything is done. Skincare is no exception, so how do we provide skincare services during COVID in the safest most enjoyable manner?
Adaptation is the name of the game it seems with most things during COVID times. Skincare is definitely up there in complexity from the standpoint of “How is it done safely?” I am often asked how I perform facials and body treatments during COVID. I feel very fortunate to be a part of the therapist team at Cancer Rehab and Integrative medicine where we have strict COVID guidelines in place for the facility and all interior spaces where we see clients. In addition, we have requirements to follow based on our licensing board or TDLR as well as the CDC.
Here is a quick rundown of what you can expect if you schedule a skincare treatment with me.
I will:
Ask you to text me upon your arrival so I can greet you at the door and open it for you to welcome you in.
Take your temperature upon arrival. I will have also taken mine upon arrival to work.
Be wearing a mask/face shield combination or a double mask during your treatment.
Be wearing nitrile gloves during your treatment.
Have a HEPA approved air purifier running in the treatment room at all times.
Remove all steaming steps from the treatment protocol. Hot towels will be used instead of steam.
Deep clean and disinfect all high touch surfaces between each client and at the beginning and end of the day.
ALL linens including table warmers and coverlets/blankets will be removed and changed after EACH treatment and table will be wiped down with disinfectant.
One additional point of interest, I have received both doses of the COVID vaccine.
You will:
Text me when you arrive at CRIM so I can let you in without you having to touch the door handle(s).
Agree to let me take your temperature.
Chat with me about your skin and the issues you are having.
Get comfortable on the treatment table.
RELAX and ENJOY your service……….
Currently, we know of no way to perform a facial treatment while clients are wearing a mask. Until that changes, I will continue to do everything in my power to protect you, myself and others from the spread of this virus by following the guidelines that have been outlined for us by our governing boards and agencies.
For additional information on CRIM COVID guidelines please click on this link.
For additional information on Sava Face and Body services call or text 512-608-7760
Samantha Kool LE, COE