Your hair stylist sees more of your scalp than anyone else.  Make use of their unique perspective by asking your stylist if they see any moles on your scalp.   If any moles are found be sure to have your physician take a look at them during your next exam.  

While most skin cancer occurs where skin has been exposed to the sun, this isn’t always the case.  The sun-exposed areas are higher risk areas, but skin cancer can occur anywhere, even on your scalp.

Most moles are perfectly harmless but some can signal the presence of skin cancer.  A doctor can do a quick visual exam of the mole to see if it has any of the danger signs associated with skin cancer.  The danger signs include:

• Asymmetry – Moles that change shape or become asymmetrical (one half is different than the other).
• Border  – Moles that are uneven, blurred, or lumpy around the edges.
• Color – It’s normal for moles to be a solid brown color. A mole that turns a different shade of brown or black may be a sign of skin cancer.
• Diameter – A mole that’s growing or is larger than the head of a pencil eraser may require a biopsy.

So the next time you’re getting your hair cut or styled remember to ask your hair stylist to take a quick look for any moles.  Even if they find one chances are that it’s perfectly normal, but ask your doctor about it just to make sure.