21 May 2013

The Habia Skills Academy (HSA) is asking hair and beauty professionals to be skin aware this summer as it launches its Skin Cancer Awareness campaign.

The Skin Cancer Awareness campaign aims to encourage hair and beauty professionals to play their part in identifying the early symptoms of skin cancer through their role in working closely with clients.

Public awareness of cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. However, the chances of a positive outcome can be dramatically increased if it is caught early.

The HSA is publishing packs for salons and training providers that will help educate colleagues about the signs of skin cancer and raise awareness amongst clients.

The packs contain:

  • Leaflets - containing information on skin cancer, how to check for symptoms and where skin cancer most commonly occurs on people
  • Posters - to make staff and students fully aware of symptoms, and know what to do next should they spot anything
  • Symptom check cards - so that industry professionals always have the facts about skin cancer at their fingertips
  • A learning resource pack - which will support educators delivering training to learners about skin cancer
  • Window stickers - so that organisations involved in the campaign can show their support.

The packs will be available for download or hard copies from www.habia.org

Habia MD Rob Young said, "Getting people to seek advice and take the symptoms seriously is the most difficult part, but this is where industry professionals can play a valuable role. Staff will not take the job of GPs and doctors, instead they will simply identify what could be potential symptoms and recommend medical advice be sought."

He added, "Beauty may be only skin deep, but skin cancer is life changing. With the facts about skin cancer at their fingertips this summer, staff will be able to confidently identify symptoms and advise clients to seek appropriate medical guidance." 

For more information, email the SCA campaign direct on sca@habia.org.

Or go to https://twitter.com/HSA_SCA and www.facebook.com/SkinCancerAwarenessSCA.