Hairdressers and barbers could be key players in spotting the early signs of skin cancer, according to a new University of Portsmouth study.
The research, conducted with 37 hairdressers and barbers in the city, found that many already notice suspicious moles or skin changes on their clients' scalps, necks and faces - areas that are often hard for people to check themselves.
The findings suggest that with greater awareness and training, these professionals could play a valuable role in improving the early detection of skin cancer.
The study showed that despite only 5 per cent of hairdressers having had formal training, almost a quarter of staff (24 per cent) were regularly screening customers. Of those interviewed, a third had advised customers of a suspicious mole, and of those,39 per cent had subsequently been diagnosed with skin cancer.
The study, published in Skin Health and Disease , was carried out by Helen Fleming as part of her Master of Research (MRes) degree at the University, she is now a Research Associate in the School of Dental, Health and Care Professions . Last year, her impactful research won her the Student Research Impact Award at the annual Student Impact Awards .
Hairdressers and barbers are in a unique position to notice changes on parts of the skin most people don't regularly see. Many of the participants in our study had already encouraged clients to seek medical advice after noticing something unusual. With simple training, they could become powerful advocates for early detection.
Helen Fleming, Research associate, University of Portsmouth
Helen said: "Hairdressers and barbers are in a unique position to notice changes on parts of the skin most people don't regularly see. Many of the participants in our study had already encouraged clients to seek medical advice after noticing something unusual. With simple training, they could become powerful advocates for early detection."
The reasons participants reported not screening their customers were lack of training (65 per cent) and lack of confidence to screen for suspicious moles or skin lesions (24 per cent). Almost all showed an interest in learning more about skin cancer (92 per cent).
When asked how a customer reacted when it was suggested to them they should seek medical advice, one hairdresser said: "They didn't know they had it. I explained and showed her in the mirror and she managed to get it looked at and sorted and was very grateful that I showed her because she didn't know."
Another said: "He was quite unsettled as he already has moles on his head. As a result he went and got them checked."
Rates of melanoma in Portsmouth are around 26 per cent higher than the average across England , making it one of the more affected areas in the country. Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the UK, and melanoma - though less common - can be the most dangerous if not caught early.
With May marking Skin Cancer Awareness Month, the study highlights the importance of regular self-checks, sun protection, and talking to professionals who may spot warning signs early. Figures show that almost 250,000 people get diagnosed with skin cancer each year, and this figure is growing.
"We want to encourage both the public and hair professionals to understand the signs and take them seriously", added Helen. "Spotting a suspicious mole and acting early can make a life-saving difference."
Helen's current research project will investigate barbers skin cancer prevention practices in Portsmouth.
Further research in this area could facilitate the inclusion of skin cancer awareness training for apprentice UK hairdressers and barbers, and free training for established hairdressers and barbers.
This could allow willing hairdressers and barbers to provide a nationwide head-and-neck screening resource for their customers, potentially aiding the earlier detection of skin cancer, improving patient prognosis and cutting NHS treatment costs.
