Clients with cancer have unique needs in terms of hair, skin, and nail care, and professionals should be aware of basic recommendations to best help these individuals. This course has provided an overview of the most common types of cancer therapies that affect the hair, skin, and as well as a more in-depth look at specific issues that affect these areas of the body. Care guidelines and suggestions for issues discussed have been outlined, with an emphasis on tailoring these guidelines to each client's individual needs. Finally, a review of client resources, including online resources specifically designed for individuals with cancer, has been provided. Given the unique emotional challenges faced by cancer patients, including lowered self-esteem, depression, and worry regarding their quickly changing appearance, salon professionals are in a unique position to help these people regain confidence and improve their outlook on daily life during this extremely difficult time.

Victims of domestic violence may suffer emotional, psychologic, and/or physical abuse. In many cases, victims suffer in silence for years, and salon and spa professionals are in a unique position to help these individuals. Salons are often considered a "safe space," because they are one of the few places a victim is allowed to visit without her/his abuser. It is important that we educate ourselves to enhance awareness of domestic violence in every salon and spa.

Although nutrition is a familiar term, many people are unaware of the complexity of nutrition and how many components are needed to help the body function. In addition, nutrition and the overall idea of health are rarely discussed when considering problems common in hair, nails, and skin. Having an understanding of how nutrition affects the hair, nails, and skin is important for cosmetologists to be able to counsel clients or refer them to their healthcare provider when they are experiencing the issues discussed throughout this course. Through this knowledge, cosmetologists are in a unique position to have an impact on their clients' lives and are able to help them become healthier individuals through their chosen profession.

The professional makeup artist should be familiar with currently available products and should know how to apply these products using proper techniques. A knowledge of proper techniques includes an understanding of human skin, facial anatomy and features, color theory, makeup tools and equipment, safety, and client consultation.

Cleanliness is paramount in the cosmetology industry. Following the guidelines for sanitation and sterilization takes great responsibility and requires vigilance. One single technician can put his or her entire clientele's health at risk by not practicing stringent sanitation and disinfection guidelines. In addition, salon technicians should be well versed in the types of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites they may encounter so they may identify infections. The transmission of these infections would be properly eliminated through sanitization and disinfection in the salon environment.

Although prevention and new medical interventions may reduce the pace of the epidemic, HIV will be a significant disease for many years both in the United States and the world. Education provides the opportunity to ensure that West Virginia salon professionals have the information necessary to work with and provide services to persons with HIV.

In order to offer safe and effective services to the public, cosmetology professionals must be aware of the chemical makeup, growth, and structure of hair, skin, and nails. Cosmetologists' basic knowledge and their commitment to increased understanding will translate into client satisfaction.