Salon Professionals Bring Added Line of Skin Cancer Defense

Because salon professionals see clients on a regular basis, it’s not uncommon for them to notice unusual skin changes. Hair stylists, barbers, beauty experts, manicurists and others are well positioned to see the smallest of growths.

They are your added line of defense against skin cancer. Ask them to watch for anything unusual on these areas of your body:

• Ears: My brother had the most common type of skin cancer on his ear, squamous cell carcinoma. When caught early, nearly all can be treated successfully. That’s all the more reason to wear a wide-brimmed hat. But don’t neglect any inch of your ears when applying sunscreen.
• Eyelids: Your barber or hair stylist sees your eyelids when you close them for a shampoo. They can look for changes. Pat sunscreen on your eyelids, and don’t forget to wear your sunglasses.
• Feet: If you’re donning flip-flops and lounging by a pool, be careful. The tops and soles of your feet are prime real estate for the sun’s reach. Use sunscreen often and ask your pedicurist to watch for moles or skin lesions.
• Lips: The sun seeks the path of least resistance. That’s why your lower lip is more prone to squamous cell carcinoma than your upper lip. You know to cut back your sun exposure and wear a hat outside. Also use lip balm or lipstick with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Nails: Skin cancer can grow in the tissue under the fingernails. Called subungual (under the nail) melanoma, it appears as a brown or black streak and looks like a bruise or a fungus. Your manicurist can see what might be brewing under your nails.
• Palms: Although your palms don’t withstand much sun exposure, your manicurist can keep an eye out. Black or brown spots could mean a melanoma.
• Scalp: Your scalp receives a lot of sun exposure. Yes, your full head of hair offers some sun protection, but not completely. If you are beautiful in your baldness or have thinning hair, remember it’s a target for melanoma. As you do for your ears, protect your bare scalp from sun damage.

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Connect With a Dermatologist

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the world and affects millions of Americans each year. NKCH dermatologists screen for it, treat it and help people understand how to avoid it. They also can help you improve your skin’s appearance.

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Jodi Rawson

As Digital Marketing Strategist Jodi Rawson oversees the digital consumer experience for North Kansas City Hospital & Meritas Health. This includes managing website strategy, marketing automation and social media for the system. She believes in the power of building positive relationships, trusts data (with a side of gut instinct) and has a passion for driving consumer engagement..