KNOW YOUR SKIN. KNOW THE SIGNS.
Your Skin Has Something to Tell You
Melanoma can appear in every skin tone and the signs can be subtle. Learn what to look for, how to check your skin, and why early detection matters.
Melanoma Doesn't Look The Same On Everyone
Many people believe melanoma only affects lighter skin tones — but melanoma can develop in every skin tone, including deeper skin. Because it’s often diagnosed later in people with darker skin, awareness and early detection are especially important.
Melanoma can appear in places people may not think to check:
Nail Beds
Palms
Soles of Feet
Scalp
Under Nails
The good news: early detection can save lives.
WHY IT MATTERS
Know The Facts
01
Every Skin Tone
Melanoma can affect every skin tone.
02
Diagnosed Later
Melanoma is often diagnosed later in deeper skin tones.
03
Early Detection
Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
04
Regular Checks
Regular skin checks can help identify changes early.
Knowing what to look for — and checking your skin regularly — can make a difference.
CHECK THESE FIRST
Don't Forget These Areas
Melanoma doesn’t only appear in sun-exposed areas. On deeper skin tones, it can commonly appear in places people often overlook.
Nail Beds
Changes in or around the nails — including dark streaks or discoloration — should be monitored.
Palms
Pay attention to spots, discoloration, or changes in texture on the palms of your hands.
Soles of Feet
Check the bottoms of your feet regularly for new or changing marks.
Scalp
Part your hair and examine the scalp for unusual spots or changes.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Know The Signs
Dermatologists often use the ABCDE method to identify warning signs of melanoma.
ASYMMETRY
One side looks different from the other.
BORDER
Edges are uneven, blurred, or irregular.
COLOR
Different shades or uneven color throughout the spot.
DIAMETER
Spots larger than a pencil eraser may need attention.
EVOLVING
Changes in size, shape, color, or texture over time.
DO IT MONTHLY
A Skin Check Only Takes A Few Minutes
Checking your skin monthly can help you notice changes early.
STEP 1
Check your face, neck, chest, and arms.
STEP 2
Examine hands, palms, and nail beds.
STEP 3
Use a mirror to check your back and shoulders.
STEP 4
Look at your legs, feet, soles, and between toes.
STEP 5
Pay attention to anything new, changing, darkening, growing, or irritated.
SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT
Myth vs. Fact
✕ MYTH
“People with darker skin don’t get melanoma.”
✓ FACT
Melanoma can affect every skin tone.
✕ MYTH
“Skin cancer only appears where the sun hits.”
✓ FACT
Melanoma can also appear on palms, soles, nail beds, and other less visible areas.
✕ MYTH
“If it doesn’t hurt, it’s harmless.”
✓ FACT
Some melanomas may not cause pain or discomfort early on.
Watch BGS Founder & CEO Shontay Lundy get her skin checked
How To Perform A Skin Self-Check
Watch how to check your skin and learn what changes to look for. This quick guide walks you through every spot you should examine — including the areas commonly missed on melanin-rich skin.
- How to spot the ABCDE warning signs
- Which areas to check on melanin-rich skin
- When to see a dermatologist
The following video is provided by the American Cancer Society. Learn more at cancer.org
Learn More About Melanoma Awareness
Explore additional educational resources and skin health information from trusted organizations.
Melanoma Research Alliance
American Cancer Society
Skin of Color Society
The Skin Cancer Foundation
DON'T DELAY
Know Your Skin. Know The Signs.
Awareness starts with paying attention to your skin. Early detection matters.
Educational Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you notice any unusual or changing spots on your skin, consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.