The class of beauty therapists hope their “Love the Sun, Respect your Skin” campaign will highlight the dangers of too much time in the sun or on sunbeds.
There are more cases of skin cancer here than in the UK with around 40 people diagnosed with malignant melanoma each year. It’s the second most common cancer in people aged 15 to 34.
The students have been offering five minute one-to-one skin consultations to students and staff at the College and using a UV facial scanner to spot the signs of sun damage. They have also been giving tips on how to apply sunscreen and fake tan properly.
Public Health Officer Karen Le Cornu said: “For most young people, the risk of developing skin cancer in the future is not something which concerns them. However, they are concerned about their appearance, so helping them to recognise the impact that the sun and sunbeds have in causing premature ageing of the skin is something they can relate to now. Using the UV facial scanners helps to personalise the message.
“Studies also show that young people are more likely to relate to advice when it comes from their friendship groups and classmates. The beauty therapy students from Highlands attended a special training session led by Public Health; they are using this knowledge to help pass the sun safety message on to other students, including those who might be at most risk due to their future occupation, such as students studying construction and sports leadership.
“In addition, students are developing communication skills which will help them to discuss this issue with their clients in the future and encourage clients to get suspicious-looking moles checked by their GP.”