Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has hosted its first skincare advice course for men affected by cancer.
The ‘Skin Fitness’ Workshop, run by international charity Look Good Feel Better (LGFB), presented a two-hour advice session at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on how to combat skin problems often associated with cancer treatment to male patients currently undergoing care.
Regional Manager (North) for LGFB, Sarah Emerson, said: “We have been delivering courses to women in the UK since 1994 and now are catering for men living with cancer as they have the same problems as the ladies.
“Our course gives gentlemen the chance to discuss their skin conditions and get advice from a professional barber as well as trying some free products to help alleviate their skin conditions.”
The course covers six topics including cleaning, exfoliating, shaving, moisturising and sun protection and also provides an outlet for the male attendees to discuss their concerns openly.
Orrin Bebbington, a barber at Smooth Hound Barbers in Blackpool who gave advice on the day, said: “It’s nice to give the group the opportunity to take time out to take their mind off everything and introduce them to a shaving regime they may never have had before. The course is a great idea and one I would like to stay involved with.”
More sessions are planned for the future, following positive feedback from the first group.
The Trust’s Macmillan Cancer Care Co-Ordinator, Kerrie Newsham, said: “I have been working with Sarah to launch the first men’s care session and I’m really pleased we have the opportunity to offer the workshop for our male patients who will definitely benefit from the skin care advice within the course.
“We will definitely be offering more courses in the future.”
You can find out more information on the Skin Fitness Workshops by dropping into the Macmillan Information and Support office within the Windmill Unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, or by calling 01253 955710.
For more information on the LGFB services, please visit www.lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk or call 01372 747500.