Salim Khan Salim Khan Asked 8 months ago

Can black get skin cancer?

I always thought skin cancer was more common in fair-skinned people. But recently, I heard that even individuals with darker skin can get it. Is it true that people with black or dark skin tones are also at risk for skin cancer?

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7 answers

Swami Chaitanya Swami Chaitanya Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago
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Yes, absolutely. Even though darker skin has more melanin which provides natural protection from the sun, skin cancer can still happen. It is always wise to protect your body and get any unusual skin changes checked.

Preeti Iyer Preeti Iyer Joined Jan 2026 8 months ago

Yes, people with darker skin can definitely get skin cancer, and it is often diagnosed much later, which makes it dangerous. Please get any new or changing moles checked by a dermatologist immediately.

Kritika Sen Kritika Sen Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago

I always thought dusky or dark Indian skin was completely safe from skin cancer, so I never wore sunscreen. Now I am super worried about a dark spot on my foot. Has anyone else had to get a biopsy done?

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Rohan Mehta Rohan Mehta Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago

Actually, yes, yaar. Darker skin tones can get it too, often in places like under the nails or on the soles of the feet. That's why wearing sunscreen is not just for fair skin!

Ananya Roy Ananya Roy Joined Feb 2026 8 months ago

Yes, skin cancer can affect all skin colors. In darker skin, it often appears as acral lentiginous melanoma on palms or soles. Keep an eye on any unusual spots and see a doctor if you find anything.

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Sanjay Gupta Sanjay Gupta Joined Mar 2026 8 months ago

It is a big myth that dark skin doesn't get cancer. Just buy a simple, budget-friendly SPF 30 sunscreen from the chemist and apply it daily when going out in the sun. It's a very easy way to protect yourself.

Amit Rawat Amit Rawat Joined Mar 2026 8 months ago

Yeah, anyone can get it. I have a dusky skin tone and my derm told me to always wear SPF because UV rays still cause damage. Don't skip sunscreen thinking you are immune.

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