Why it works: spa treatments for cancer patients at Macdonald Hotels and Resorts

The nationwide collection of Macdonald Hotels and Resorts has introduced Jennifer Young spa treatments to help anyone with, or recovering from cancer, to enjoy an uninhibited spa experience. The first chain of its kind to extend training and protocol across its hotel spa destinations, following our recent interview with them here they explain a little more about the treatments…

What exactly are the Jennifer Young spa treatments at Macdonald Hotels?

Jennifer Young offers a range of treatments that are safe for anyone affected by cancer. Both the treatments and products allow therapist to help and advise those affected by cancer going through treatments, and really have a positive impact.

The range of treatments available includes:

Jennifer Young Indulgent Massage

A bespoke massage carefully adapted by a specialist therapist to suit each individual’s need. Using 100% natural and organic oils, this treatment can be done with or without chakra balancing and crystal work.

Jennifer Young Manicure or Pedicure

This treatment is designed for damaged nails and sensitive skin, finishing with an application of your favorite colour.

Jennifer Young Top to Toe

This top-to-toe experience includes a gentle full body massage followed by a deeply relaxing facial.

Jennifer Young Glowing Facial

A relaxing facial, blissfully adapted to bring the glow of health and harmony to even the most sensitive skin.

Where does it come from?

Jennifer Young is a product manufacturer who created these products and treatments in collaboration with experts. At the time she created it, there were no other beauty treatments on the market that met the right standards for cancer patients.

She created Defiant Beauty by Jennifer Young specifically for those going through treatment for cancer and was encouraged by her local NHS cancer centre. Her goal was to create products that really made a difference to the skincare issues that people suffered as a result of cancer treatment, as well as to provide products that were safe to use whilst undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

What are the spa treatments supposed to do?

Both treatments and products are specifically designed for those suffering from cancer and receiving cancer treatment. They aim to help soothe the side effects that cancer treatments commonly present. For example, clients with dry, sore, sensitive and itchy skin (a common side effect of some chemotherapy drugs) will benefit from the Jennifer Young treatments and products such as ‘Itchy Skin Oil’.

Is there anything you do to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment?

All treatments take place in our Macdonald Hotels urban spas, with all the comforts and amenities you would expect. There’s a thermal suite, relaxation area and we provide fluffy dressing gowns and slippers. As with all treatments guests also have full verbal consultations conducted by our experienced team of beauty therapists. As regards the products, only Jennifer Young formulated products are used, that includes nail polish.

These products aim to be as free from toxins as possible and hypoallergenic to protect those who have a lowered immune system. The big thing that we have done is made the Jennifer Young treatments available on all packages, so if you’re visiting with a friend who does not have cancer, you don’t have to book a separate break. We want to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible for our guests to have an experience that’s the same as anyone else’s.

Is there anything you recommend clients to do pre- or post-treatment to get the most out of it?

Arrive around 20 minutes before your treatment so you have time to change and fill out a consultation form without rushing. Dress in comfortable clothes and bring swimwear and waterproof footwear if you wish to use the thermal area.

Is there anyone you particularly recommend the treatment for?

Jennifer Young treatments are for any adult suffering from any cancer, whether receiving treatment (including chemotherapy) or recently recovered, which a lot of brands are not suitable for. Whatever symptoms or specific issues an individual has, each treatment can be tailored to them following their consultation. On another note, we have also found that the Jennifer Young products and treatments are really good for helping and benefitting clients who are going through the menopause.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have this treatment at Macdonald Hotels and why?

The treatments are not generally suitable for pregnant women and some (rare) cancer treatments need to be discussed in their own right. All Jennifer Young treatments are preceded by a consultation, but if you’re concerned at all it’s best to contact us in advance.