Many people mistakenly believe that skin cancer only affects individuals with fair skin. While skin cancer is more common in lighter skin tones, people of every race and ethnicity can develop skin cancer
— and in patients with darker skin tones, it is often diagnosed at a later stage when treatment can be more difficult. Understanding the signs, risks, and prevention strategies for all skin types is critical to improving outcomes and saving lives.*
How Common Is Skin Cancer in People With Darker Skin Tones?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), melanoma occurs far more frequently in non-Hispanic White individuals than in non-Hispanic Black or Asian/Pacific Islander individuals. However, lower incidence does not mean lower risk.
Skin cancer in people with darker skin tones is often detected later, leading to more advanced diagnoses and lower survival rates. Because many patients and even providers may not immediately suspect skin cancer in skin of color, warning signs can be overlooked until the disease has progressed.
Certain skin cancers, including melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma, can affect people of all skin tones. Acral lentiginous melanoma — a rare but serious form of melanoma — is more commonly diagnosed in individuals with darker skin.
Where Does Skin Cancer Typically Appear in Darker Skin Types?
Unlike skin cancer in lighter skin tones, which frequently develops in areas with high sun exposure, skin cancer in darker skin often appears in less obvious locations.
People with darker skin tones are more likely to develop skin cancer on:
- The palms of the hands
- The soles of the feet
- Under the fingernails or toenails
- Inside the mouth
- The groin or genital area
Because these areas are not routinely checked, skin cancers may go unnoticed longer. Changes such as dark streaks under the nails, non-healing sores, or new pigmented spots should always be evaluated by a dermatology provider.
Can People With Darker Skin Get Melanoma?
Yes. Although melanoma is less common in people with darker skin tones, it can still occur and is often more dangerous due to delayed diagnosis.
Research shows that melanoma survival rates are lower among patients with skin of color. In many cases, melanoma is not discovered until it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.
This is why routine skin checks and awareness of unusual skin changes are important for everyone — regardless of skin tone.
Do Sun Protection Recommendations Change Based on Skin Type?
No. Sun protection is essential for all skin tones.
Everyone should:
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors
- Wear sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, and wide-brim hats
- Seek shade during peak sun hours
- Avoid tanning beds
- Use facial sunscreen during everyday activities, even on cloudy days
While darker skin contains more melanin, which offers some natural UV protection, it does not completely prevent skin cancer or sun damage.
Is Skin Cancer More Difficult to Treat in Darker Skin Tones?
The treatment for skin cancer is generally the same across all skin types. However, outcomes can differ because skin cancer in patients with darker skin is frequently diagnosed later.
Delayed diagnosis may result in:
- Larger or deeper tumors
- More aggressive treatment needs
- Increased risk of cancer spreading
- Lower survival rates
Early detection remains one of the most important factors in successful skin cancer treatment.
What Are the Biggest Differences Between Skin Cancer in Lighter vs. Darker Skin?
The primary differences involve:
- Incidence rates: Skin cancer is more common in lighter skin tones.
- Location: Skin cancer in darker skin often develops in non-sun-exposed areas.
- Detection challenges: Pigmented lesions may be harder to recognize.
- Outcomes: Later-stage diagnoses contribute to poorer survival rates in patients with darker skin tones.
Despite these differences, one message remains the same: skin cancer can affect anyone.
Why Skin Cancer Awareness Matters for Every Skin Tone
Education and prevention are key in the fight against skin cancer. Routine skin exams, daily sunscreen use, and awareness of unusual skin changes can help detect skin cancer earlier and improve outcomes for patients of all backgrounds.
If you notice a changing mole, dark streak under a nail, non-healing sore, or any unusual spot on your skin, schedule an evaluation with a board-certified dermatology provider. Early detection saves lives.
*Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dermatology Partners is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from reliance on this information.
