Unusual Signs of Skin Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

When most people think of skin cancer, they picture a changing mole. But many skin cancers don’t look like moles at all. During National Healthy Skin Month, it’s important to know the subtle, easily missed warning signs that deserve a closer look.

Skin cancer is highly treatable when found early. These are some of the less obvious signs our dermatologists want you to keep an eye on.

1. A sore that doesn’t heal — or heals and returns

A non-healing spot is one of the most common signs of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It may look like:

• a small cut that never fully goes away
• a patch that bleeds with minimal trauma
• a spot that “heals” but comes right back

If it hasn’t healed after a few weeks, a dermatologist should evaluate it.

2. A pimple-like bump that lasts longer than a few weeks

Not every bump is acne. Skin cancers can appear as:

• firm, flesh-colored bumps
• pearly or shiny nodules
• bumps that bleed when you wash your face
• sores that crust over repeatedly

If a “pimple” isn’t going away, it may not be a pimple at all.

3. A rough, sandpaper-like patch

Actinic keratoses—precancerous growths—can feel gritty before they look concerning. They are often:

• appear on sun-exposed areas
• feel dry or scaly
• catch on clothing or towels

Not every precancerous spot looks dramatic; sometimes texture is the first clue.

4. A new dark streak under a nail

Melanoma can develop under the fingernails or toenails, showing up as:

• a brown or black vertical streak
• a line that grows wider over time
• discoloration that extends onto the cuticle

These signs should always be evaluated promptly, especially on a single nail.

5. A spot that looks shiny, translucent, or “pearly”

Basal cell carcinoma often has a distinctive sheen. It may look like:

• a glassy bump
• a translucent patch
• a smooth area with tiny visible blood vessels

These areas may be mistaken for scars or skin irritation.

6. A mole that feels itchy, painful, or tender

Not all dangerous moles change dramatically in size or color. Sometimes sensation is the first sign something is wrong.

Any new or persistent itching, burning, or tenderness is worth checking.

7. A new lesion in an area not typically exposed to the sun

Melanoma can appear anywhere — even in places that rarely see sunlight. That includes:

• the soles of the feet
• between the toes
• the scalp
• the genitals
• under the arms

This is why total body skin exams are so important.

8. A scar-like patch you don’t remember injuring

Certain skin cancers, especially morpheaform basal cell carcinoma, can appear as:

• flat, white, waxy patches
• areas that look like a faint scar
• spots that slowly expand

These can be easy to overlook without a trained eye.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you notice any new or changing spots, or something simply doesn’t look or feel right, trust your instincts. Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment.

Schedule a skin exam today and make healthy skin a priority this month and every month.