The Oncology Aesthetics Podcast

Cancer survivorship and supportive oncology are essential parts of recovery — yet they are often overlooked once treatment ends. In this episode, we explore what truly happens after chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery with Dr. Jeff Kendall , a psychologist and leader in supportive cancer care. Together, we unpack the emotional, physical, and identity shifts that define life after cancer treatment...

How does food impact your skin during cancer treatment? Oncology dietitian Darienne Hall shares simple, evidence-based nutrition strategies to strengthen the skin barrier, support hydration, and reduce inflammation—without supplement hype. Learn how a Mediterranean-style pattern and smart protein choices can help your skin stay resilient through treatment. 👉 Join the Conversation 🤍 Support the s...

A new lump, a “you’re fine,” and a gut that wouldn’t quiet down. Katie’s story spans misdiagnosis to stage 3 breast cancer and then something bigger: a whole-person approach to healing that protected her joy, anchored her days, and transformed fear into fuel. We walk through how she insisted on the right imaging for dense breasts, assembled a team she trusts, and reframed chemotherapy from dread t...

Losing your hair during cancer treatment can be a deeply personal and emotional experience. Beyond the physical changes, it often represents a loss of privacy and control at a time when maintaining normalcy feels most important. This episode tackles this sensitive subject with compassion, offering practical strategies to help navigate hair shedding, shaving, and scalp care with dignity. Our guest...

Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment, but what exactly happens when those high-energy beams target cancer cells? Nurse practitioner Katie Bukolt takes us on a fascinating journey through radiation's effects on the skin and body, highlighting how treatment responses vary based on location, dosage, and individual factors. She dismantles the one-size-fits-all approach, emphasiz...

Ever wondered why sleep becomes so elusive during cancer treatment? Our latest podcast episode tackles this crucial yet often overlooked aspect of cancer care with expert insights from Laurie, an experienced nurse navigator. Sleep isn't just about rest—it's fundamental to physical recovery and mental wellbeing during cancer treatment.  Laurie explains how quality sleep helps lower blood...

Navigating cancer treatment brings countless challenges, and safeguarding your skin from damaging sun exposure shouldn't be another worry. Kate Epperson, an oncology nurse navigator and melanoma survivor, joins us to break down essential sun protection strategies with clarity and compassion. Kate expertly demystifies the science behind sun protection, explaining how UVA rays penetrate deeper...

Rediscovering beauty during cancer treatment presents unique challenges – particularly when it comes to facial features that express our personality. We're diving deep into practical aesthetic solutions with makeup expert Jeanna Doyle-Ruhl, who shares techniques for recreating the look of eyebrows and eyelashes during treatment. Jeanna reveals why traditional eyebrow pencils often fail cancer...

Chemotherapy's effects extend far beyond targeting cancer cells, impacting the body's fastest-growing tissues including skin, hair, and nails. Oncology nurse navigator Lauren Stafford walks us through this journey with expert compassion and practical wisdom gained from guiding countless patients from diagnosis through survivorship. Lauren unpacks the science behind why chemotherapy cause...

Dryness during cancer treatment isn't just uncomfortable—it's a complex side effect that impacts both body and mind. Alex Huffman, Director of Supportive Care and Integrative Oncology at UT Southwestern Cancer Center, reveals why addressing this common challenge requires a holistic approach that nurtures the whole person. Discover the surprising connection between hydration and mental he...

Navigating the cancer journey involves much more than medical treatments alone. In this deeply insightful conversation with Andrea Wendich, Director for Navigation overseeing 18 nurses across North Texas, we uncover the critical yet often overlooked role of specialized skin care during cancer treatment. Andrea reveals why skin care education should begin immediately following diagnosis, preparing...

When facing cancer treatment, the smallest comforts can make a profound difference. Our conversation with Josanna Gaither, Executive Director at the Ricardo Fisas Natura Bisse Foundation, explores an invaluable free resource that puts control back into patients' hands – the Oncology Aesthetics Skin Care Guide. This comprehensive yet surprisingly digestible guide serves as a lifeline when ever...

The Ricardo Fisas Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit focused on enhancing well-being through aesthetic skin and hair care services for people undergoing cancer treatment, along with professional education for spa industry professionals on how to safely serve clients with cancer. Key Highlights: • One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer, yet many are turned away from spas • Cancer treatment...