By Ayanna Kirton, Freelance ReporterIMPROPERLY trained persons performing hair and skin care services pose an enormous threat to the health of black women, said United States-based dermatological doctor, Angelo Thrower.
Educating industry professionals through the exchange of ideas and skills locally and internationally, one of the major objectives of National Association of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists' (NAHC), was exemplified at its annual trade show held at the Jamaica Pegasus on Sunday, November 9.
In his presentation at the trade show, guest speaker Angelo Thrower said a lack of knowledge of the harmful effects of some products on black skin was cause for concern, in particular the widespread use of skin lightening products among black people.
Skin lightening, which has become commonplace worldwide, can result in irreversible physical and emotional trauma among black populations and women in particular, Mr. Throwert said.
Minister of Local Government, Community Development and Sports, Portia Simpson Miller, praised the NAHC for their efforts and said the need for an association to promote and protect the industry was imperative to the development and professional status of both men and women as hairdressers, barbers, and cosmetologists.
The Minister said the risks posed to clients could be very grave if beauty technicians were not properly trained in the use of these products.
"People do not understand the level of training skills required for a successful career in this field," said Mary Dawes, president of the NAHC. "It is an ongoing process."
The NAHC president said plans were being made to establish a vocational training programme for persons interested in pursuing a career in the field.
"We have embarked on a new training model to ensure high standard of education among practitioners," she said. In addition to practical training, Dawes said seminars and workshops on entrepreneurship and strategic planning were already under way for industry professionals and students to understand the business generation side of the industry.
These seminars were being conducted in partnership with the University of Technology's (UTech) Innovation Centre.
