A team of specialists will be encouraging hairdressers and beauty therapists across the Fylde to spot early signs of skin cancer.



The skin cancer team, based at Clifton Hospital in Lytham St Annes is supporting the Melanoma and Skin Cancer Early Detection (MASCED) programme for hair, health and beauty industry professionals.



Macmillan Skin Cancer Care Coordinator, Michelle Forsyth, said: “Staff in these industries are often the first to spot potential skin problems, especially if they are found on the scalp, back or other areas that are hard to see yourself.



“A lot of salons in the area have already gained their online accreditation and to promote this further the team will be visiting Blackpool and the Fylde College’s hair and beauty department on May 15.”



The team will be at the Bispham campus from 9am to 5pm encouraging students to become more aware of potential skin cancers and to encourage their clients to visit the GP if they feel something may need further investigation.



Michelle added: “From April 2017 to March 2018, our department diagnosed 1,654 skin cancers, most of which were treatable. Early detection of skin cancers is vital, that’s why it is so important to be aware and to be safe in the sun.”

The scheme is run by Skcin, the Karen Clifford melanoma and skin cancer charity