5 days ago
Beauticians being trained to spot early signs of skin cancer
Beauty professionals are being trained to help spot the early signs of skin cancer.
A new scheme launched on the Isle of Wight by the Lighthouse Clinic and Lighthouse Education aims to equip beauticians with the skills to identify potentially cancerous moles and lesions, helping to refer clients for early medical assessment and potentially lifesaving treatment.
The scheme uses the MASCED (Melanoma and Skin Cancer Early Detection) Accredited Training, developed by the national skin cancer charity Skcin, and is specifically designed for the beauty industry.
A spokesman for the Lighthouse Clinic said: "We are excited to partner with Skcin to bring this training to the Isle of Wight.
"The beauty industry is perfectly placed to play a vital role in spotting the early signs of skin cancer.
"Together, we're training eyes to save lives."
The campaign highlights the unique position of beauty therapists, nail technicians, hairdressers, and barbers, who regularly observe their clients' skin and may notice changes that clients themselves have missed.
Lighthouse Education has funded 100 free places for Isle of Wight professionals to take part in the training, which takes about 60 minutes to complete online.
Participants receive a certificate of accreditation and a practical guide covering sun safety, UV exposure risks, and identifying types of skin cancer.
The first salon to complete the training was Becalmed Medispa in Cowes.
Marie Tudor, chief executive officer of Skcin, said: "We are delighted Lighthouse Education has funded the training for salons and clinics on the Isle of Wight.
"This is an incredible opportunity to help promote the early detection of skin cancer and sun safety with the people living on the island."
She emphasised the vital role beauty professionals can play in skin surveillance and early intervention.
Marie said: "Anyone working in this sector, undertaking close contact skin services, has a key role to play in undertaking skin surveillance, highlighting any concerns with their clients, and signposting appropriately."
The MASCED training has already proven effective elsewhere in the UK.
In one case, a beautician identified concerns in eight clients, three of whom were later diagnosed with melanoma and received timely treatment as a result.
