Hair loss, dry skin: cancer patients get help

Dubai: For the first time in the UAE, female cancer patients will be able to benefit from a series of beauty and wellness support workshops. The volunteer group ‘Be Beautiful’ was launched on Wednesday at the Dubai Ladies Club to help patients deal with and manage the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

Most women undergoing such treatments experience changes in the hair (colour, thinning or hair loss), skin (dry and cracked) and nails (develop blemishes, bruises, and/or become brittle). Some women experience hair loss on the eyebrows and eyelashes.

Speaking to Gulf News, Hanadi El Imam, the founder of the initiative, said she has seen first-hand the added stress female cancer patients go through due to the changes in appearance. “My sister was a cancer patient, and it was tough for her. Through Be Beautiful, I wanted to give patients in the UAE an opportunity to consult with certified professionals in hair, skincare and cosmetics. Cancer shouldn’t stop them from stepping out with confidence and self-esteem.”

The two-hour format of the workshop includes tips on skincare, make-up application and methods of using scarves and hairpieces to cover the scalp. These will be held monthly at various locations in collaboration with hospitals and cancer support groups in the UAE. Only four to six patients will be accommodated per session with each receiving a complimentary bag of beauty products sponsored by renowned brands.

Patients can sign up for the next workshop via be.beautiful2@hotmail.com.