Melanoma on the Feet
Where to Look, What to Watch For, and What to Do
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and, while many people associate it with sun-exposed areas such as the face or back, melanoma can also develop on the feet. Because the feet are often overlooked during skin checks, melanoma in this area is frequently diagnosed later than it should be.
Understanding where to look, what to look for, and what action to take is essential for early detection.
Where Can Melanoma Appear on the Feet?
Melanoma on the feet is more common than many people realise and can develop in several hidden or unexpected areas, including:
Soles of the Feet
Melanoma can appear on the plantar surface (the sole), even though this area is rarely exposed to sunlight. It may look like a dark patch, streak, or uneven mark that doesn’t heal or gradually changes.
Between the Toes
The skin between the toes is warm, moist, and often difficult to inspect. Melanoma here may be mistaken for a fungal infection, sore, or area of irritation.
Around or Under the Toenails
Known as subungual melanoma, this type can appear as:
- A dark streak under the nail
- Pigmentation spreading into the surrounding cuticle or skin
- A nail that splits or lifts without obvious injury
Importantly, this is often confused with bruising from trauma.
Sides and Heels of the Feet
Melanoma can also develop on the edges, heels, or sides of the feet, where friction from footwear may disguise early warning signs.
What Should You Look For?
Melanoma on the feet doesn’t always look like a classic mole. Some appear subtle, unusual, or are mistaken for common foot problems.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Use the ABCDE rule, adapted for the feet:
- A – Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other
- B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges
- C – Colour: Multiple colours (brown, black, red, grey, or blue)
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (but can be smaller)
- E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or sensation
Additional red flags specific to the feet include:
- A dark patch that doesn’t fade or heal
- A sore that bleeds, crusts, or fails to heal
- Pigmentation spreading from under a nail to surrounding skin
- Pain, itching, or tenderness without clear cause
Not all melanomas are dark. Some are amelanotic, meaning they can appear pink, red, or skin-coloured.
Why Is Melanoma on the Feet Often Missed?
Melanoma on the feet is frequently diagnosed later because:
- Feet are not routinely checked during self-exams
- Lesions are mistaken for blisters, fungal infections, bruises, or verrucas
- Soles and nail beds aren’t associated with sun exposure
- Changes can go unnoticed due to footwear coverage
This makes regular foot checks especially important.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
You may have an increased risk of melanoma on the feet if you:
- Have a history of melanoma or atypical moles
- Have fair skin or many moles
- Have experienced repeated trauma or pressure to the feet
- Have a family history of skin cancer
- Are older (although melanoma can occur at any age)
However, melanoma of the feet can affect any skin type, including darker skin tones.
What Should You Do If You Notice Something Unusual?
1. Don’t Ignore It
Any changing, unusual, or non-healing lesion on the foot should be taken seriously, even if it doesn’t hurt.
2. Arrange a Medical Assessment
Start with your GP, who can examine the area and refer you urgently if needed. Early referral significantly improves outcomes.
3. Seek Specialist Skin Assessment
For faster reassurance or specialist review, a private consultation with an experienced skin doctor can provide prompt evaluation and, if required, biopsy or removal.
Checking Your Feet: A Simple Routine
- Check your feet regularly as part of a top to toe mole review
- Use a mirror or ask for help to inspect soles and between toes
- Examine toenails and cuticles carefully
- Look for anything new, changing, or unusual
- Photograph areas you’re unsure about and monitor for change
Professional Mole & Skin Checks
At Cosmedics Skin Surgery & Laser Clinic, thorough skin assessments are carried out by experienced doctors trained to identify suspicious lesions, including those in hard-to-see areas such as the feet.
Founded by Dr Ross Perry, the clinic provides:
- Full skin and mole checks
- Rapid access to expert opinion
- Surgical, laser, or biopsy-based removal where appropriate
- Clinics in London and Bristol
Early detection of melanoma can be life-saving. If you have any concerns about a mole or lesion on your feet — or anywhere on your body — it’s always better to get it checked.
Book a consultation today for expert reassurance and advice.
Skin Surgery Laser Clinics
Dr Ross Perry is a qualified and experienced London GP, who founded Cosmedics Skin Clinics in 2003, an independent company specialising in skin treatments such as removal of lesions/blemishes.
Cosmedics’ Skin Surgery Laser Clinic offer private mole removal at a selection of clinics based in London and Bristol. Moles are removed using the latest surgical techniques including laser mole removal; with trained doctors and surgeons.
Our team of qualified and experienced doctors and surgeons also treat other skin blemishes, including sebaceous cysts, skin tags, warts and lipoma using freezing, laser or surgical techniques.
For ultimate peace of mind, Cosmedics Skin Surgery Laser Clinic offer a thorough top to toe mole check carried out by their trained and experienced doctors.
For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.
