Skin cancers often appear on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun. But they can also develop in other areas, including on the palms, under the fingernails, between or under the toes and in the genital region, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fair-skinned people are at higher risk than the general population, but people with dark complexions can also develop skin cancers. The growths may appear suddenly or develop over time.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinomas are the most common of skin cancers and usually develop because of overexposure to the sun. They often occur on the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders and back, but can develop anywhere on the body. They may be pearly or waxy bumps on the face or head area, the Mayo Clinic says. Basal cell carcinomas may also appear as flat, flesh-colored or brownish lesions on the chest or back. They are easily treated when caught in the early stages. Medical removal should be done as soon as possible. Once the tumor starts to grow, it will need more extensive treatment. People who have had basal cell carcinomas are at risk of recurrence, so they should start seeing a dermatologist on a regular basis.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinomas occur in the upper layers of the skin. They can occur on areas exposed to the sun, including the ears, lower lip, face, bald scalp, neck, hands, arms and legs. But they can occur on any part of the body, including the mucous membranes and the genitals, the Skin Cancer Foundation says. They may appear as hard, red nodules. They may also develop as flat, scaly or crusted lesions. Although fair-skinned people are at high risk for skin cancer, the majority of skin cancers in African-Americans are squamous cell carcinomas. The skin cancer can also develop from burns, scars, ulcers or sores.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious skin cancer and can be fatal if not treated on time. It can appear anywhere on the body. Melanomas may have a black or black-blue color. They often change in size, shape, color or feel, according to the National Institutes of Health. The "ABCD" method of what to watch for is often advised. Asymmetry is when half of the mole does not match the other half. Borders of the mole may be ragged or irregular. Color may be uneven and may include black, brown or tan shades. Diameter of the mole may change or increase in size.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis is the most common precancerous growth, the Skin Cancer Foundation says. It can develop into any skin cancer. It usually develops on the face, bald scalp, ears, lips, hands, forearms, shoulders or neck. The growths may be red, dark tan, pink or a combination of colors.
Dysplastic Nevi
Dysplastic nevi, or atypical moles, are not yet skin cancer, but people who have these moles are at increased risk of developing one or more melanomas, the Skin Cancer Foundation explains. People with this condition may have 100 or more moles. They may have one or more moles that are 1/3 inch or larger in diameter or they may have one or more moles that are atypical. A family history of melanoma puts a person at increased risk. People with signs of precancerous growths should have them checked out with a dermatologist.
