Skin Cancer in Skin of Color: Why Darker Tones Still Need Protection
Darker skin is not immune to skin cancer - it's often diagnosed later and in places people never think to check, like the palms and soles.
52% of non-Hispanic Black melanoma patients receive an initial diagnosis at an advanced stage versus 16% of white patients, and acral lentiginous melanoma accounts for up to 55-65% of cases in patients of color.
Dermatologists emphasize that melanoma in skin of color often appears in less sun-exposed sites such as the palms, soles, and nail beds, and that delayed recognition contributes to more advanced diagnoses and worse outcomes.
Questions we get a lot
Can people with darker skin get skin cancer?
Yes. While darker skin has more melanin, it is not immune to skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that melanoma in people of color is often diagnosed at a more advanced stage - 52% of non-Hispanic Black patients at advanced stage versus 16% of white patients - which worsens outcomes.
What is acral lentiginous melanoma and where does it appear?
Acral lentiginous melanoma is a type that commonly occurs on the palms, soles, and under the nails. A narrative review notes it can account for up to 55-65% of melanoma cases in patients of color. Because these areas get little sun, the spots are easy to miss, so regular self-checks matter.
What signs should people with skin of color watch for?
Watch for new or changing spots on the palms, soles, and nail beds, including dark streaks under nails, in addition to typical mole changes. Because diagnosis often comes later in skin of color, prompt evaluation of unusual lesions is especially important.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'I have deep brown skin and was told I don't need sunscreen - is that actually true?'