Beauty pros taught early Melanoma signs

A new programme designed to help hair and beauty professionals spot early signs of skin cancer on their clients is set to launch.

Devised by skin cancer awareness charity, Skcin, the MASCED programme aims to provide those working within the beauty, hair and therapy sectors with the skills and knowledge to spot skin lesions which could develop into cancer. MASCED stands for Melanoma and Skin Cancer Early Detection.

The free online learning resource provides comprehensive, printed educational resources as well as a 45-minute on-line course, leading to a MASCED accredited qualification.

Commenting on the launch, Claire Dale, Campaign Manager for MASCED, says:

“Skin cancer is the UK's most common and fastest rising cancer. Melanoma, the deadliest form of the disease, is now one of the biggest cancer killers in 15 to 34-year olds. Experts estimate that by 2024, Melanoma will become one of the most common forms of all major cancers. Hair, health and beauty professionals are expertly placed to help spot what could be the early signs of cancer which could improve prognosis and save lives.

“The MASCED programme is about empowering those professionals to feel they can communicate any concerns they may have to their client, so medical advice can be sought quickly. We do not and never would expect a beautician or hairdresser to diagnose cancer, but if they find a lesion the MASCED programme will help them understand what it is and what should be done about it.”

The MASCED programme will be officially launched at the Professional Beauty London trade exhibition, taking place on 25th and 26th February. Mark Moloney, MD of Professional Beauty London, comments:

“We are absolutely delighted to be able to support this fantastic initiative; especially as too many people are lost each year to a cancer which is treatable with early detection. We know that people regularly start using salons and having treatments from a young age, meaning that our professionals could be the ones to help those aged 15 – 34 survive this cancer.”