Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can develop on any part of the body. However, certain body areas are more prone to melanoma than others. Knowing which areas are most at risk can help you take steps to protect and monitor your skin health.

1. Face and Neck

The face and neck are common areas for melanoma to develop, especially for women. This is because these areas are frequently exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds.

It’s particularly important to protect your face and neck from the sun with a broad-spectrum sunscreen and wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Regularly checking your face and neck for changes in moles or other growths is also recommended.

2. Back and Shoulders

The back and shoulders are also high-risk areas for melanoma, especially for men. These areas are often exposed to the sun during outdoor activities like sports and yard work.

Since it can be difficult to see these areas yourself, it’s a good idea to have a partner check your back and shoulders for any unusual growths or changes in moles. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, consider wearing a shirt with UPF protection to shield your skin from the sun.

3. Legs and Feet

For women, the legs and feet are common areas for melanoma to develop. This is often due to wearing sandals or flip-flops that leave the skin on the tops of the feet exposed to the sun.

It’s important to wear sunscreen and protective footwear when spending time outdoors, particularly during peak sun hours. Regularly checking your legs and feet for changes in moles or other growths is also recommended.

4. Scalp

The scalp is another area that is susceptible to melanoma, especially for people who have thinning hair or bald spots. Sunburn on the scalp can be particularly painful and dangerous, as it can go unnoticed until it is too late.

Wearing a hat with a brim can help protect the scalp from the sun’s harmful rays. Regularly checking your scalp for changes in moles or other growths is also recommended.

5. Genital Area

The genital area is another area where melanoma can develop, although it is less common. This area is often not exposed to the sun, but can still be at risk due to other factors, such as genetics and a weakened immune system.

It’s important to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider and to report any unusual growths or skin changes in the genital area.

6. Nails

Although rare, melanoma can also develop under the nails, especially in people with darker skin tones. Melanoma on the nails can appear as a dark streak or spot and can be mistaken for a bruise or injury.

It’s important to have any unusual nail changes checked by a healthcare provider, particularly if they do not go away or spread.

7. Eyes

While not technically a body area, the eyes are also susceptible to melanoma. Eye melanoma, or ocular melanoma, is a rare but serious type of cancer that can develop in the iris, ciliary body, or retina.

Symptoms may include changes in vision, spots or dark spots in the field of vision, or eye pain. Regular eye exams can help detect early signs of eye melanoma.

8. Mouth and Throat

Similar to eye melanoma, melanoma can also develop in the mouth and throat. Symptoms can include changes in the color or texture of the tongue, gums, or roof of the mouth, difficulty swallowing, or a persistent sore throat.

Regular dental check-ups and oral cancer screenings can help detect early signs of melanoma in the mouth and throat.

9. Hands and Fingers

The hands and fingers are also susceptible to melanoma, especially among people who work outdoors or participate in outdoor sports like golf or tennis.

Wearing sunscreen and protective gloves can help reduce the risk of melanoma on the hands and fingers. Regularly checking your hands and fingers for changes in moles or other growths is also recommended.

10. Ears

Finally, the ears are another area that can be at risk for melanoma, especially for people with short hair or who wear their hair up in a bun or ponytail. Wearing a hat or earmuffs can help protect the ears from the sun’s harmful rays.