Melanoma Where? 3 Surprising Places Skin Cancer Can Hide

We tend to think of skin cancer as something that shows up on our nose, arms, or back after too many summers at the beach. And that’s not wrong. But melanoma doesn’t always show up where you expect it.

In fact, some of the most dangerous melanomas are found in places people rarely check. That’s why skin checks matter—and why you need to look everywhere, not just where the sun hits.

1. Under Your Nails (Yes, Really)

Subungual melanoma can develop under your fingernails or toenails. It often looks like a brown or black stripe, but it can also show up as a dark spot or streak that spreads.

🔹 What to Watch For:

• Dark streaks that weren’t there before

• Changes in nail color or texture

• Splitting or lifting of the nail without trauma

⚠️ It’s more common in people with darker skin tones—and it’s easy to miss.

2. On Your Scalp

You can’t protect what you can’t see. And the scalp is prime real estate for melanoma. Hair offers some protection, but UV rays can still do damage—especially along the hairline or in thinning areas.

🔹 What to Watch For:

• New moles or dark spots

• Sores that don’t heal

• Scaly patches or bumps that change over time

⚠️ Get help checking this area. Scalp checks are part of every skin exam at Shore Dermatology.

3. In Your Eyes (Ocular Melanoma)

Melanoma can form inside the eye, usually in the uvea (the middle layer). It’s rare—but it happens. And since you can’t see it yourself, regular eye exams are crucial.

🔹 What to Watch For:

• Blurred or dim vision

• A dark spot on the iris

• Floaters or changes in pupil shape

⚠️ Your eye doctor checks for this during a dilated eye exam. Don’t skip it.

The Takeaway

Melanoma can hide in unexpected places—and it doesn’t care if you’ve been playing it safe. That’s why we launched the Skin Check Program at Shore Dermatology. We check everywhere. So you don’t have to wonder if you missed something.

📅 Ready for your full-body skin check? We’re ready for you.

#MelanomaAwarenessMonth #MelanomaMyths #UnexpectedMelanoma #SkinCheckSavesLives #ShoreDerm