More Than Skin Deep: Lessons From The Look Good Feel Better Program
Look Good Feel Better (LGFB), a program designed specifically for individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer, fosters compassion, camaraderie, and confidence disguised as skin care. The program began in 1989, and I, as an oncology nurse and American Cancer Society (ACS) volunteer, actively served for several years. At every two-hour workshop, I learned something new. Oh, I didn't learn how to interpret lab results more accurately, or which medication would better battle nausea, or even how to administer chemotherapy more safely. I learned from the participants the importance of holistic patient care, including those aspects that others might label as" nothing but vanity."
Respite
At every LGFB session, without fail, one participant would mention how nice it was to do something "normal." Then, the group would slowly open up and share how long it had been since they had taken time for themselves, time that didn't revolve around active treatment.
Oncology treatments often become the focal point of a patient's calendar. Between scheduling lab work, follow–up appointments, surgical consults, and receiving treatment, there is little time for anything else in their day, week, or month. What little time is left, especially if the patient continues to work, is spent either resting or trying to fit in more moments with loved ones.
Gathering with a small group and unpacking a gift box of free, name-brand skin care and cosmetics is a beautiful moment of respite from what has become their new normal.
Compassion
Instructors for LGFB are beauty professionals who have completed further training and certification to safely teach participants who often have compromised immune systems or sensitivities due to active cancer treatment. Instructors offer tips and tricks of the trade, empowering participants (even those who have never worn cosmetics) to care for their skin and camouflage some of the more obvious side effects of treatment. Many of the instructors I have met over the years have either battled cancer themselves or walked through the treatment of a loved one. They offer compassion for the journey, coupled with hope for living confidently in the midst of treatment.
Confidence & Camaraderie
The first giggle is usually quiet and quickly muffled. But, soon, the room is filled with laughter, oohs, and aahhs! Women who entered with their shoulders slumped, heads down, and taking up as little space as possible soon are offering an encouraging word and laughing with others. There is joy in learning how to draw on eyebrows that chemotherapy stole. You hear "Oh, I love that color on you!" or two women who had never met before are planning to grab coffee afterward because "we are too beautiful just to go home." The isolation and despair of watching hair fall out in the shower or dressing to cover up the ravages of surgery are softly, but firmly pushed to the side for this moment in time. Shared experiences, smiles, and gratitude help build the muscles of hope and renew courage for one more day of their journey through treatment.
Look Good Feel Better is holistic care for patients disguised as skin care, makeup application tips, and tutorials for wigs, turbans, and head coverings. Group Sessions are held at various community locations, including treatment centers and medical offices. You can register online at https://lookgoodfeelbetter.org/workshop-registration/ to find a location near you. If you are in a community with limited access, virtual sessions are also available. Register today for the option that works for you!
If you would like to learn more about LGFB, here are some resources.
Official site for Look Good Feel Better
Look Good Feel Better: Working Wonders for Cancer Survivors' Self-Esteem | CURE
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/supportive-care/appearance.html
https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/CRC/PDF/Public/741.00.pdf
