How Massage Therapists Can Help Increase Skin Cancer Awareness

As we embrace the sunny days of summer—with longer daylight hours and more time spent outdoors—it's a perfect time to raise awareness about skin health. Increased exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays during this season brings a greater risk of skin damage, including skin cancer, which remains the most common form of cancer in the United States.

Massage therapists are in a unique position to support early detection efforts. You regularly observe areas of clients’ bodies they may not easily see themselves—such as the back, shoulders, and scalp. For clients who receive consistent care, you may even be the first to notice if a mole has changed shape or color, or if a new spot has appeared. This makes you a valuable ally in recognizing early signs of skin cancer and encouraging clients to take action.

AMTA Resources to Support You

To help you feel confident in this role, AMTA offers a variety of educational tools:

• Talking to Your Clients About Skin Cancer
  This free AMTA continuing education course provides an overview of skin cancer, guidance on identifying various types of skin lesions, and effective communication strategies to approach this sensitive subject with clients.
  
  
• Skin Deep: Massage Therapists & Early Detection of Skin Cancer
  This Massage Therapy Journal feature includes expert insights from dermatologist Amanda Friedrichs, M.D., and explores the important relationship between massage therapy and skin cancer awareness.

Know the Warning Signs of Skin Cancer

While prevention is essential, early detection can be lifesaving. Despite best efforts, sun exposure is inevitable, which makes it important to stay alert to potential warning signs. Encourage your clients—and yourself—to watch for the following:

• New or Changing Moles
  Look for irregular shapes, color changes, or rapid growth.
  
  
• Sores That Don’t Heal
  Any sore or lesion that persists for more than a few weeks should be checked by a medical professional.
  
  
• Itchy, Crusting, or Bleeding Spots
  Changes in texture or sensation, such as itching, crusting, or bleeding, may signal concern and should be evaluated.

Sun Safety Tips to Share with Your Clients

Fortunately, protecting skin from UV damage can be both easy and effective. In your role as a massage therapist, you can encourage clients to take simple steps to reduce their risk of skin cancer and prevent premature aging, sunspots, and wrinkles:

• Wear Sunscreen
  Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Apply it generously and reapply every two hours—don’t forget commonly missed spots like the ears, lips, and tops of the feet.
  
  
• Cover Up with Protective Clothing
  Lightweight clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays provide an added layer of defense.
  
  
• Find Shade During Peak Hours
  UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When possible, schedule outdoor time earlier or later in the day—or seek out shaded areas under umbrellas, trees, or canopies.
  
  
• Hydrate and Nourish Your Skin
  Healthy skin begins on the inside. Encourage hydration and a diet rich in antioxidants—such as berries, leafy greens, and tomatoes—to help the body fight sun-related damage.

Promoting a Healthier Summer for All

AMTA is dedicated to empowering massage therapists with the knowledge and tools to support the well-being of their clients. By raising skin cancer awareness, recognizing early warning signs, and promoting smart sun safety habits, you can make a meaningful difference this summer and beyond.

Let’s work together to protect the skin we’re in—because healthy skin is always in season.

For more ways to stay sun smart during Skin Care Awareness Month, check out our recent Massage Therapy Journal article,  “Stay Sun-Smart: Your Guide to Healthy Summer Skin.”