New course helps hair and beauty industry save lives

The NSW Government has launched a new online course to equip the hair and beauty industry with the skills to start a conversation about skin changes that could save a life.

Developed by TAFE NSW in conjunction with the Australian Melanoma Research Foundation, Hair and Beauty Australia (HABA), and Keune Australia, the ‘Spot a Spot’ course targets hairdressers, barbers and beauticians to increase early awareness and prevention of skin cancer.

Australia has some of the highest melanoma rates in the world and 90 per cent of melanomas can be treated successfully if caught early.

Dr Wayne Harvey from the Australian Melanoma Research Foundation said: “Early detection of melanoma is associated with high survival rates. Hairdressers and barbers are in regular contact with their clients and access hard-to-see spots, so they are very well placed to recognise skin changes.

CEO of the Australian Hairdressing Council and Newcastle salon owner Sandy Chong agreed.

“We’ve spotted a concerning mark many times in my own salon,” Ms Chong said. “We think the course is really valuable.”

For more information and to purchase the course, go to https://store.training.tafensw.edu.au/product/spot-a-spot/