By learning the warning signs of skin cancer, stylists can become a valuable partner in the ongoing battle against melanoma. As a result, The Melanoma Foundation of New England (MFNE)-a non-profit dedicated to skin cancer awareness and early detection-presents a new initiative for stylists and salon professionals. The Skinny On Skin is a free education program that trains industry insiders to identify cancerous moles on the scalp and neck while performing common salon services. Led by Dr. Robin L. Travers of SkinCare Physicians of Chestnut Hill, MA, the training sessions will teach the warning signs and advise on the best ways stylists can speak with their clients about seeking medical attention if a suspicious mole is identified.
Although only 10% of melanomas occur on the neck and scalp, they account for a large portion of all melanoma deaths as they are often undetected or are caught late. Since stylists see their clients on average every 5-6 weeks (significantly more often than most people visit their own doctors), and are familiar with their clients' skin, they must be equipped with the skills to spot potential melanoma. Launch events will include The Skinny On Skin training, an opportunity to use MFNE's UV facial scanner to see lurking skin damage, and beyond. All attendees will receive a healthy skin goody bag with sponsor product samples.
Dr. Robin L. Travers of SkinCare Physicians of Chestnut Hill, Mass., will lead the few training sessions on melanoma detection. |
Partners include Oribe, Paul Mitchell of Northern New England, Macadamia Natural Oil, Modern Salon Media, Salon Mario Russo, Elavina Salon, the Harvard School of Public Health and the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing.
Events include:
Monday, May 6
11:00-2:00 p.m. at the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope & Healing, 29 Lowell Street, Lewiston, Maine
Tuesday, May 21
7:00-9:00 p.m. at Montage, Boston, 75 Arlington Street, Boston
Monday, July 22
6:30-8:30 p.m. (location TBD), Manchester, N.H.
The Skinny On Skin training is free to salon owners and stylists, but reservations must be made in advance. Refreshments will be served.
To reserve a spot, email skinnyonskin@mfne.org or call 800-557-6352.