While we work very closely with at-risk clients, such as those dealing with cancer, everyone reacts differently to chemotherapy/radiation treatment. Some clients have more sensitivities than others, so even the slightest odors can make them queasy. I would recommend using an eco-friendly nail polish line, such as Zoya. It’s not completely odor-free, but we find it to be much less overwhelming than other traditional lines. If paraffin is an issue, try Eco-fin. It’s a petroleum-free alternative to paraffin, biodegradable and 100% natural.
Forgo using anything with synthetic fragrance. Instead, try using essential oils such as peppermint, lemon, or tea tree. There are some real medicinal benefits to using essential oils, but do speak with your doctor before using them. Wearing gloves and a face mask can also serve as sensory barriers. While nothing is 100% guaranteed, these are some great precautionary methods to try.
— Missy Malone, founder, SPAtaneity (www.spa-ta-neity.com), Fort Worth, Texas
A: Essential oils or aromatherapy oils can both be lightly applied to your fingertip and inserted into your nose to avoid having the breakthrough smell. Also you can spray a facemask lightly with oil and then wear it. Chewing spearmint gum helps as well. You can also use unscented paraffin and go chemical-free.
— Sam Rivenbark, East Coast Acrylic, Edenton, N.C.