As estheticians we are often the first people to detect suspicious lesions on our clients because we are analyzing their skin every month. A Dermatologist may only see them once a year. Of course, that’s if our clients get an annual skin cancer screening, and unfortunately many do not.

So how do we know what to look for on a client’s skin? And, how do we educate our clients on skin cancer prevention?

It is imperative that as estheticians we understand that we cannot offer medical diagnoses. However, knowing the ABCDE’s of skin cancer will allow us to identify a lesion that looks suspicious and we can refer our client to a Dermatologist. It is also essential to know that when we are relaying this information that it is never done in an alarming way.

The Skin Cancer Foundation guidelines for detecting Melanoma:

  • A – Asymmetry: If you draw a line through this mole, the two halves do not match
  • B – Border: The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven. The edges tend to be uneven
  • C – Color: Having a variety of colors is another warning signal. A number of different shades of brown, tan or black could appear. A melanoma may also become red, blue, or some other color
  • D – Diameter: Melanomas usually are larger in diameter than the size of the eraser on your pencil (1/4 inch or 6 mm), but they may sometimes be smaller when first detected
  • E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, elevation

While you are educating clients on skin cancer prevention remind them that, not only will it keep them healthy, but it will keep them looking young too! It is a known fact that more than 90% of visible signs of aging are attributed to sun exposure.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends:

  • Seek the shade, especially between 10am and 4pm
  • Avoid tanning and never use UV tanning beds
  • Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher everyday
  • Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating
  • Examine your skin head-to-toe every month
  • See your physician every year for a professional skin exam

Given that skin care is our passion, New York Institute of Beauty is dedicated to educating students on skin cancer, not only how to prevent it, but how to confidently provide treatments to clients that are undergoing or have undergone chemotherapy and radiation. Oncology Spa Solutions hosted at NYIB is a unique class with the mission of teaching the essential skills necessary to make modifications for custom and safe spa treatments that will enhance client quality of life. 

Estheticians have the opportunity to alert their clients on suspicious marks on their skin, discuss preventative measures, and help with skincare during or after cancer treatments. You can learn more on how to choose safe and effective skills for oncology clients. Contact us today to learn more.