Selfcare Workshops for Young People with Cancer

This event brought together 15 young people who had the opportunity to connect with representatives from the beauty brand Indu, known for their expertise in skincare tailored for teenagers. This unique workshop focused on the importance of self-care, specifically addressing skincare routines post-treatment and makeup techniques to help with some of the physical side effects that cancer treatment can cause.

The primary objective of the workshop was to provide a safe and supportive environment where young people could learn how to manage the visible effects of cancer treatment. Skincare routines were a central focus, with Indu’s specialists highlighting how essential proper skincare is for healing and regaining confidence. Topics included managing sensitive skin, hydration, and addressing common concerns such as dryness or scarring post-treatment.

In addition, the makeup segment provided practical and empowering solutions for common challenges. This included:

• Eyebrow recreation techniques – Teaching young people how to reshape and recreate eyebrows, an important step in framing the face and restoring a sense of normality and identity.
• Natural-looking makeup tips – Addressing uneven skin tone, managing redness, and learning simple techniques to enhance natural features in a subtle way.

One of the most valuable aspects of the workshop was the safe, understanding environment it fostered. For many of the young people, this was the first opportunity to engage in a beauty-related activity since undergoing treatment. The workshop provided a rare and vital chance to be surrounded by others who genuinely understood the emotional and physical journey of cancer. Being able to share experiences, laugh, and learn alongside peers created a sense of community and mutual understanding that is difficult to replicate in other environments.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed that the workshop helped them feel more confident and better equipped to manage their appearance post-treatment

Outcomes and Next Steps:

• Increased Confidence: 90% of participants reported feeling more confident in managing their appearance following the session.
• Skill Development: All attendees left with new skills in skincare and makeup application, which they can continue to build on independently.
• Community Building: Several participants exchanged contact details and expressed interest in attending future beauty or self-care workshops.

With your support, we will continue hosting similar workshops in the future, with the goal of expanding the program to include more participants and additional themes around wellness, body positivity, and mental health.

We extend our gratitude to Indu for their generous support and expertise in making this workshop a success. Their commitment to empowering young people aligns closely with the values and mission of Teens Unite, and we look forward to further collaboration.

Thank you to you for enabling events like this to take place. Your contributions make a real difference in the lives of young people facing incredibly challenging circumstances.

Teens Unite recently hosted an impactful series of skincare and beauty workshops as part of our annual residential stay, bringing together twenty young beneficiaries who are overcoming cancer. These workshops were designed to address the unique skincare, and self-care needs of young people affected by cancer treatment, promoting self-esteem and providing a sense of normalcy during a challenging time.

Workshop Activities

The workshops offered a comprehensive range of activities tailored to support the beneficiaries:

1. Skincare Routines: Participants learned about effective skincare routines to manage and improve skin health, addressing common concerns such as dryness and sensitivity caused by cancer treatments. They received personalised advice and practical tips to maintain healthy skin.
2. Relaxation with Face Masks: To promote relaxation and self-care, the young people used soothing face masks. This activity provided a calming experience and helped alleviate some of the physical discomfort associated with treatment.
3. Nail and Hair Care: Beneficiaries had the opportunity to have their nails and hair done, including styling and grooming. This aspect of the workshop aimed to enhance their appearance and boost self-confidence, addressing changes often experienced due to treatment.
4. Makeup Application: the young people learned makeup techniques designed to recreate features such as eyelashes and brows that may have been affected by treatment. This included practical demonstrations on applying makeup to help them feel more like themselves and boost their self-esteem.

Inclusivity and Engagement

While the beauty workshops might traditionally be perceived as catering primarily to young women, the program was designed to be inclusive of all genders. Young men actively participated in the skincare and grooming sessions, embracing the advice on maintaining healthy skin post-treatment. This inclusive approach ensured that all beneficiaries, regardless of gender, could benefit from the sessions and address their personal skincare needs.

Impact and Feedback

The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. The workshops provided not only practical skills but also a much-needed boost in self-confidence. Young people reported feeling more empowered and better equipped to manage the physical changes resulting from their cancer treatment. The sessions fostered a supportive community environment where participants could share experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges.

Conclusion

The skincare and beauty workshops at our annual residential stay exemplify Teens Unite's commitment to addressing the needs of young people overcoming cancer. By offering these workshops, we support the beneficiaries in managing the physical side effects of their treatment and enhance their self-esteem and well-being. This highlights our dedication to providing comprehensive support and creating a positive, inclusive environment for all beneficiaries.

Thank you to everyone who continues to fund these vital workshops improving the lives of teenagers and young adults whose lives have been impacted by cancer.