The short answer: Gentle, relaxing facials designed with cancer patients in mind can be a caring part of your routine before, during and after chemotherapy. At Skin + Wax Clinic in Hervey Bay, we welcome clients at every stage of treatment and offer safe, appropriate facials. Please tell us about your treatment plan, and check with your oncology team if you have any questions.
This article is general information only. It is not medical advice, and your oncology team knows your situation best.
Why does cancer treatment affect your skin?
Many people find their skin feels different during cancer treatment. Skin can become dry, sensitive, tight or easily irritated. Everyone’s experience is different, and what your skin does isn’t a reflection of anything you’ve done.
Because skin can feel unpredictable at this time, a gentle, thoughtful approach matters more than anything else.
Can you have facials during chemotherapy?
Many people do choose to have gentle facials during chemotherapy, and at Skin + Wax Clinic we welcome clients before, during and after chemotherapy. We keep treatments relaxing, safe and appropriate for where you are right now.
Our clinic does not require a doctor’s clearance. That said, we always encourage you to mention your treatment plan when you book or arrive, and to ask your oncology team if you have any questions about what’s suitable for you. They know your medications, your schedule and your health history.
What does an oncology-friendly facial involve?
Rather than a standard facial, we adapt what we do to you. In general, that means:
- Listening first. We ask how your skin and body are feeling that day.
- Gentle techniques. Calming, nurturing care rather than anything intense.
- Suitable products. We choose products with sensitivity in mind from our professional ranges, including Circadia and Murad.
- Circadia oncology rituals. Circadia has its own rituals for clients going through oncology treatment, and our trained team can offer these.
- No pressure. If you’re tired or not feeling well, we go at your pace.
Many clients tell us the best part is simply having an hour where they’re looked after as a person, not a patient.
Which treatments should I avoid during cancer treatment?
This is a question for your oncology team, but as a general rule we avoid any heat-based treatments and anything that could inflame the skin. That means treatments such as HIFU, IPL, radio frequency and Dermapen 4 are not where we begin. Instead, we focus on keeping your skin hydrated, calm and peaceful. A relaxing, gentle facial is where most clients start, and we’d always encourage you to check with your care team if you have questions.
Why choose a clinic that understands oncology skincare?
Not every salon is set up for this. Many clients tell us they felt unsure about whether they’d be welcome, or worried about being a bother. You never are.
We offer dedicated oncology skincare support because clients navigating cancer treatment are often underserved. Our founder, Tammy Wakely, is an award-winning paramedical skin technician with more than 20 years in the industry and has been in beauty since she was 16. Her own lifelong experience with cystic acne taught her what it feels like to have skin that doesn’t behave and to need someone who truly listens. That compassion carries through to how we look after every client.
Who will look after me?
Our oncology skincare is provided by a team with specific training. Tammy Wakely and Joanne Hayward both hold the Circadia oncology certificate and an oncology specialist facial certificate from New Zealand, so they’re trained to treat oncology clients. We also have a nurse practitioner, Eshmeet Dhanoa, on site at the clinic.
What should I tell the clinic before my appointment?
Helpful things to share, only what you’re comfortable with:
- Where you are in your treatment plan
- Any skin sensitivities or reactions you’ve noticed
- Any areas that are sore, tender or need to be avoided
- How you’re feeling on the day
You’re welcome to bring a support person. If you have questions about what’s suitable, we’ll happily talk it through, and we’ll always encourage you to confirm with your oncology team.
What does it cost?
Our oncology facials range from $200 to $350. We’ll discuss what’s suitable and what it costs before anything begins, so there are no surprises.
Where can I find you?
Skin + Wax Clinic is at Shop 44, Pialba Place, Cnr Hunter St & Old Maryborough Rd, Pialba (Hervey Bay) QLD 4655. We’re open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9am to 5pm, Thursday 7:30am to 7pm and Saturday 8:30am to 4:30pm. We’re closed on Sundays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a facial while I’m having chemotherapy? We welcome clients before, during and after chemotherapy and offer gentle, appropriate facials. Please let us know your treatment plan, and ask your oncology team if you have any questions.
Do I need a doctor’s letter? Our clinic doesn’t require a doctor’s clearance. We still encourage you to check with your oncology team about anything you’re unsure of.
Is your team trained to treat oncology clients? Yes. Tammy Wakely and Joanne Hayward both hold the Circadia oncology certificate and an oncology specialist facial certificate from New Zealand, and our nurse practitioner, Eshmeet Dhanoa, is on site. We can also offer Circadia’s own oncology rituals.
What if I’m too tired on the day? That’s completely okay. Just let us know, and we can adjust or reschedule.
Will the facial be relaxing? That’s the goal. We keep treatments calm, gentle and focused on helping you feel looked after.
Book a gentle, caring facial
If you’d like to talk it through first, call us on 07 4325 4060.
When you’re ready, you can click here to book online.
We’d be honoured to look after you.