What Does Melanoma Look Like Identifying Key Visual Signs

Published 4 August 2026

Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, often begins as a subtle change in a mole or new skin lesion that may initially go unnoticed. Recognizing its early visual cues is critical for timely intervention, as delayed detection can significantly impact prognosis. This guide provides a structured approach to identifying melanoma through its distinct characteristics, progression patterns, and comparisons with benign skin conditions. By understanding the ABCDE rule, subtle visual shifts over time, and demographic variations in presentation, individuals can empower themselves to take proactive steps in skin health monitoring.

The visual distinction between benign moles and melanoma hinges on specific criteria—irregular asymmetry, blurred or jagged borders, uneven coloration, and rapid changes in size or texture. Advanced melanoma may exhibit ulceration, bleeding, or spreading beyond the original lesion, underscoring the importance of regular self-assessments. This resource equips readers with actionable tools, from DIY skin-check techniques to comparative analyses of melanoma subtypes, ensuring clarity in differentiating high-risk lesions from harmless growths. Early detection remains the cornerstone of effective treatment, and familiarity with these visual markers is the first line of defense.

Visual Characteristics of Melanoma: Key Features to Identify

Early detection of melanoma relies heavily on recognizing distinct visual characteristics that differentiate it from benign moles. Melanoma often presents with atypical features that can be systematically evaluated using standardized criteria, such as the ABCDE rule, a widely adopted framework in dermatology for assessing suspicious skin lesions. This rule serves as a practical tool for both healthcare professionals and individuals to identify potential warning signs, emphasizing asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter changes, and evolving features.

The ABCDE rule is not a diagnostic tool but a screening guideline to prompt further evaluation by a dermatologist. Studies indicate that lesions meeting these criteria have a higher likelihood of being melanoma, though false positives may occur, necessitating professional assessment.

The ABCDE Rule: Criteria for Melanoma Detection

Comparing Suspicious Moles to Standard Melanoma Images

1. Shape and Symmetry Assessment
Trace the mole mentally or with a pen to determine if dividing it equally is possible. Melanomas often lack this symmetry, appearing distorted or uneven. For instance, a mole that resembles a leaf or a crescent moon is more concerning than a round or oval nevus.

2. Border Examination
Inspect the edges for smoothness. Benign moles typically have well-defined, rounded borders, whereas melanoma borders may appear ragged, notched, or diffuse. Use a magnifying glass to detect subtle irregularities, such as tiny indentations or a "pebbled" texture.

3. Color Analysis
Note the presence of uniform or varied pigmentation. Melanomas frequently exhibit multiple colors, including shades of tan, brown, black, blue, red, or white. A mole with a single, consistent color (e.g., uniform light brown) is less suspicious. Pay attention to areas of depigmentation (white patches) or hyperpigmentation (dark streaks), which can indicate vertical growth—a hallmark of malignant melanoma.

4. Size and Growth Tracking
Measure the lesion using a ruler or compare it to common objects (e.g., a pencil eraser). Document changes in size over time, as rapid growth is a critical warning sign. Even small lesions (less than 6 mm) can be melanoma, particularly if they exhibit other ABCDE features.

5. Texture and Surface Changes
Palpate the mole to assess its texture. Melanomas may feel firm, rough, or develop a crusty surface. Look for signs of ulceration, oozing, or scaling, which can indicate advanced disease.

Visual Comparison Technique:
Place the suspicious mole alongside a printed reference image of melanoma (available in dermatology guides) to identify discrepancies. For example, a mole with a mix of brown, black, and blue hues may indicate melanoma, whereas a uniform tan or light brown nevus is typically benign. Use a smartphone app or dermatology atlas for side-by-side comparisons if physical references are unavailable.

Benign Moles vs. Malignant Melanoma: Key Visual Differences

Benign Mole (Nevus):

• Texture: Smooth and even, often slightly raised or flat with a uniform surface.
• Symmetry: Perfectly symmetrical when divided along any axis; resembles a circle or oval.
• Color: Uniform pigmentation, typically a single shade of brown, tan, or flesh-colored.

Malignant Melanoma:

• Texture: Rough, irregular, or nodular; may develop crusting, bleeding, or a shiny appearance due to ulceration.
• Symmetry: Asymmetrical with uneven proportions; no clear dividing line creates matching halves.
• Color: Multicolored with uneven distribution, including shades of black, blue, red, white, or gray. Often appears "mixed" or "splotchy."

Clinical Note:
A mole that exhibits two or more ABCDE criteria should be evaluated by a dermatologist promptly. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes, as melanoma is highly curable when detected in its initial stages (Stage 0 or IA).

Stages of Melanoma Progression: Visual Evolution and Diagnostic Indicators

Timeline of Visual Changes in Melanoma Progression

Atypical Melanoma Locations: Subtle Signs and Diagnostic Challenges

### Palms and Soles

### Nail Unit (Subungual Melanoma)

### Mucous Membranes (Oral, Genital, Anal)

Documenting Mole Changes: A Systematic Checklist for Monitoring

ABCDEF

Differentiating Melanoma from Common Skin Conditions and Subtype-Specific Visual Patterns

Early and accurate identification of melanoma relies on distinguishing its visual characteristics from those of benign or less aggressive skin conditions. Misdiagnosis can delay critical intervention, while overdiagnosis may lead to unnecessary anxiety or procedures. Below, melanoma is compared with three frequently encountered non-cancerous or pre-cancerous skin conditions—seborrheic keratosis, actinic keratosis, and fungal infections—highlighting key visual and tactile differences. Additionally, a structured breakdown of melanoma subtypes and a decision-making flowchart for urgent dermatological evaluation are provided to enhance clinical and public awareness.

Melanoma vs. Other Skin Conditions: Differentiating Traits

While melanoma shares some superficial similarities with benign lesions, its asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, and rapid growth are critical red flags. The following comparison outlines distinguishing features between melanoma and three common non-malignant conditions:

### 1. Seborrheic Keratosis
Seborrheic keratoses are benign, waxy, and often age-related lesions that resemble "stuck-on" skin. They rarely progress to malignancy but can mimic superficial melanoma, particularly in lentigo maligna melanoma (a subtype with flat, irregular pigmentation).

- Visual Hallmarks of Seborrheic Keratosis:

Appearance: Greasy, waxy, or verrucous (rough) surface; often resembles a "stuck-on" wart or coin.

Color: Uniform tan, brown, or black; may have a "dirty" or "oily" sheen.

Borders: Well-defined, rounded, and symmetrical; lacks the jagged edges of melanoma.

Size: Typically small (a few millimeters to 2–3 cm), though some may grow larger over decades.

Distribution: Common on the trunk, face, and scalp; often multiple lesions.

Texture: Rough or velvety to the touch; may have a "horn-like" projection (keratin plug).

Evolution: Stable over years; sudden darkening or ulceration is rare but warrants evaluation.

- Key Differentiator:

Melanoma: Exhibits uneven pigmentation, radial streaking (pseudopods), and rapid growth (weeks to months). Seborrheic keratoses lack these features and typically evolve slowly.

### 2. Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis)
Actinic keratoses (AKs) are precancerous lesions caused by chronic sun exposure, often progressing to squamous cell carcinoma if untreated. They differ from melanoma in texture, color, and growth pattern.

- Visual Hallmarks of Actinic Keratosis:

Appearance: Scaly, crusty, or sandpaper-like patch; may appear as a "rough spot" on sun-exposed skin.

Color: Pink, red, or flesh-colored; occasionally tan or brown (less pigmented than melanoma).

Borders: Ill-defined, blending into surrounding skin; lacks the sharp demarcation of melanoma.

Size: Small (a few millimeters to 1 cm), though multiple lesions may cluster.

Distribution: Face, scalp, hands, forearms, and other sun-exposed areas.

Texture: Dry, rough, or gritty; may bleed with minor trauma.

Evolution: Slow progression; may persist for years or resolve spontaneously.

- Key Differentiator:

Melanoma: Presents as a dark, asymmetrical, and expanding mole with color variation (black, blue, red, or white). AKs are rarely pigmented beyond light brown and lack melanoma’s structural complexity.

### 3. Fungal Infections (Tinea Versicolor, Dermatophytosis)
Fungal infections can mimic melanoma due to hypopigmented or hyperpigmented macules, particularly in darker skin tones. However, they lack melanoma’s three-dimensionality and vascular changes.

- Visual Hallmarks of Fungal Infections:

Appearance: Scaly, ring-like (annular) patches; may be itchy or inflamed.

Color:

Tinea versicolor: Hypopigmented (white) or hyperpigmented (brown/black) macules.

*Dermatophytosis (e.g., ringworm): Red, scaly rings with central clearing.

Borders: Well-circumscribed, often with active scaling at the periphery.

Size: Variable (a few millimeters to several centimeters).

Distribution:

Tinea versicolor: Trunk, shoulders, and upper arms.

Dermatophytosis: Groin (jock itch), feet (athlete’s foot), or glabrous skin.

Texture: Dry, flaky, or slightly moist; may have satellite lesions.

Evolution: Spreads peripherally; responds to antifungal treatments (e.g., ketoconazole, terbinafine).

- Key Differentiator:

Melanoma: Displays uneven elevation, ulceration, or bleeding; fungal infections remain flat or slightly raised and lack melanoma’s ABCDE (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution) criteria.

Melanoma Subtypes: Visual Patterns and Common Locations

Melanoma presents in distinct subtypes, each with unique visual, anatomical, and demographic patterns. The following table summarizes the four most common subtypes, their preferred locations, and diagnostic features to aid in early recognition.

Subtype	Common Locations	Unique Features
Superficial Spreading Melanoma (SSM)	Trunk (men), lower legs (women) Sun-exposed areas (face, neck, arms) Less common in non-white skin but still prevalent in fair-skinned individuals.	Radial growth phase: Flat, irregularly shaped macule with multicolored zones (black, brown, tan, blue, red, or white). Border: Notched, scalloped, or indistinct ("pepper and salt" depigmentation). Elevation: Later stages develop a raised, nodular component. Diameter: Often >6 mm but may start smaller. Associated with: Chronic sun damage (e.g., solar lentigines nearby).
Nodular Melanoma (NM)	Trunk, head/neck, or extremities More common in older adults and men. Aggressive subtype with early vertical growth.	Appearance: Dome-shaped, dark nodule (black, blue, or red) that may bleed or ulcerate. Border: Often well-defined but elevated and firm to palpation. Color: Uniform or mixed; may appear shiny or translucent (indicating vascularity). Growth rate: Rapid (weeks to months); high metastatic potential if untreated. Lack of radial growth: Often no preceding flat phase, making early detection challenging.
Lentigo Maligna (LM) / Lentigo Maligna Melanoma (LMM)	Face (cheeks, forehead, temples) in older adults (often >60 years). Associated with chronic sun exposure ("sun-induced" melanoma). More common in fair-skinned individuals with a history of sun damage.	Appearance: Large, flat, tan-to-brown macule with irregular, wavy borders. Pigmentation: Streaks of dark brown/black Tools and Techniques for Self-Assessment of Skin Lesions Early detection of melanoma relies on regular self-assessment of skin lesions, which can be performed using accessible tools and systematic techniques. While professional dermatological evaluation remains essential, individuals can enhance their ability to monitor suspicious changes by employing structured methods, including photography, measurement, and visual inspection under controlled conditions. This section outlines practical techniques for self-examination, highlights often-overlooked red flags in melanoma imagery, and provides a standardized template for tracking mole evolution over time. DIY Skin-Check Method Using Handheld Tools A systematic approach to self-assessment minimizes the risk of missing subtle changes in skin lesions. The following method leverages common household and low-cost tools to capture high-quality visual and physical data: Equipment Requirements: Handheld mirror (full-length or foldable) for examining hard-to-see areas (e.g., back, scalp). Smartphone camera with macro mode or optical zoom (preferably 10x or higher) to capture close-up images. Dermatoscope (if available), a handheld device with magnification (10x) and a light source to enhance visualization of lesion borders and vascular patterns. Natural light source (e.g., sunlight or a bright LED ring light) to avoid color distortion. Measuring tool (e.g., a clear ruler or dermatological caliper) for size documentation. Step-by-Step Instructions for Image Capture: 1. Environment Setup: Perform the check in a well-lit area with natural light to ensure accurate color representation. Avoid indoor lighting, which can distort hues (e.g., making lesions appear redder or darker than they are). Use a plain white or light-colored background (e.g., a towel or sheet) to enhance contrast and reduce shadows. 2. Positioning and Angles: Capture images from multiple angles (top-down, side-profile, and oblique views) to assess asymmetry, border irregularity, and depth. For lesions on joints or curved surfaces (e.g., knees, elbows), use the handheld mirror to reflect light and angles indirectly. 3. Smartphone Camera Techniques: Enable the camera’s macro mode (if available) to focus on borders and textures. If macro mode is unavailable, use the zoom function (digital or optical) to fill the frame with the lesion. Focus manually on the lesion’s edges to ensure sharpness. Tap the screen to adjust focus dynamically. Include a reference scale (e.g., a coin or ruler) in the frame to provide context for size comparison over time. Capture sequential images during the examination to document changes in elevation, ulceration, or bleeding. 4. Dermatoscope Usage (Advanced): Apply a drop of mineral oil or alcohol to the lens to improve light transmission and reduce glare. Press the dermatoscope gently against the skin to eliminate ambient light interference. Observe for: Vascular patterns (e.g., atypical vessels, dotted or linear vessels). Pigment distribution (e.g., streaks, pseudopods, or blue-white areas). Regression areas (white scars within the lesion, indicative of immune response). Note any shiny or pearly regions, which may suggest advanced melanoma with dermal invasion. 5. Documentation Protocol: Label each image with the date, location (e.g., "right forearm, lateral side"), and lesion identifier (e.g., "Mole A"). Store images in a dedicated folder (e.g., "Skin Lesion Archive") with subfolders by body region for easy retrieval. Use cloud storage or a password-protected device to ensure accessibility and security. Example Workflow for a Suspicious Lesion: Step 1: Capture a full-body image with a handheld mirror to locate the lesion. Step 2: Zoom in using the smartphone camera, focusing on the borders and center. Step 3: Use the dermatoscope to inspect vascular structures and pigment patterns. Step 4: Measure the lesion’s diameter with a ruler and document any symptoms (e.g., itching, pain). Step 5: Save the images with metadata (e.g., "2024-05-15_RArm_Lateral_MoleB_8mm"). Red Flags in Melanoma Imagery Often Missed During Self-Assessment Melanoma can present with subtle or atypical features that may be overlooked during casual inspection. The following prioritized list outlines high-risk visual indicators, categorized by severity, along with explanations for their clinical significance. These features often correlate with advanced-stage disease or aggressive subtypes (e.g., nodular melanoma). Prioritized List of Overlooked Red Flags: Critical Warning Signs (Require Immediate Professional Evaluation) 1. Shiny or Pearly White Areas Description: Localized shiny, translucent, or pearly regions within the lesion, often accompanied by a loss of normal skin texture. Severity: High – Indicates dermal invasion (melanoma spreading beyond the epidermis), a hallmark of Stage II or higher disease. Example: A previously brown mole developing a glossy, waxy patch with raised edges. Mechanism: Reflects fibrosis or keratinization due to tumor-induced inflammation. 2. Blue-White Veils or Streaks Description: Blue-gray or white streaks radiating from the lesion, often visible under dermatoscopic examination. Severity: High – Associated with subungal melanoma (under the nails) or acral lentiginous melanoma (palms/soles). Example: A dark brown nail streak with white lines extending toward the cuticle. Mechanism: Represents melanin dispersion in deeper skin layers or regression patterns. 3. Rapid Color Evolution (Beyond ABCDE Criteria) Description: New colors appearing within weeks (e.g., red, blue, or gray replacing uniform brown/black). Severity: High – Suggests vascular involvement or immune-mediated regression. Example: A mole that was uniform tan now shows patchy red and black areas. Mechanism: Indicates angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) or tumor necrosis. 4. Ulceration or Crusting Without Trauma Description: Open sores, bleeding, or scabs that persist for >2 weeks without history of injury. Severity: Critical – Ulceration is a Stage III/IV indicator and correlates with poor prognosis. Example: A non-healing crust on a previously flat mole, accompanied by serous discharge. Mechanism: Reflects tumor breakdown and immune system attack on the lesion. 5. Satellite Lesions or In-Transit Metastases Description: Smaller secondary lesions appearing within 2–3 cm of the primary tumor, often along lymphatics. Severity: Critical – Signifies regional spread (Stage III) and requires surgical excision. Example: A cluster of tiny black dots surrounding a large, irregular mole. Mechanism: Lymphatic or vascular dissemination of melanoma cells. Moderate-Risk Signs (Monitor Closely; Seek Evaluation if Persistent or Progressive) 6. Pseudopods or Irregular Pseudonetworks Description: Thin, finger-like projections (pseudopods) or arborizing vessels (tree-like patterns) at the lesion’s periphery. Severity: Moderate – Common in superficial spreading melanoma (Stage I/II). Example: A mole with dark, jagged extensions resembling "roots" under magnification. Mechanism: Indicates radial growth phase with horizontal spread. 7. Reed’s Phenomenon (White Scar with Dark Periphery) Description: A white, atrophic (sunken) center surrounded by a dark pigmented border. Severity: Moderate – Suggests immune-mediated regression but may mask residual melanoma. Example: A white, shiny patch in the middle of a mole with a raised, dark rim. Mechanism: Host immune response against tumor cells, but incomplete destruction may leave viable cells. 8. Subtle Border Changes (Non-ABCDE Patterns) Description: Blurred, scalloped, or indistinct edges that are not obviously irregular but show asymmetry in texture. Severity: Mod Cultural and Demographic Variations in Melanoma Presentation Melanoma incidence and presentation vary significantly across skin tones, age groups, and genetic predispositions, necessitating tailored clinical awareness. Darker skin tones often exhibit melanoma with distinct visual patterns due to higher melanin levels, while pediatric cases may arise from congenital nevi or genetic syndromes. High-risk populations, including those with familial melanoma or numerous atypical moles, require vigilant monitoring for subtle lesion changes. Understanding these variations improves early detection and reduces disparities in diagnosis. Melanoma in Darker Skin Tones (Fitzpatrick Types V-VI) Melanoma in individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types V-VI) frequently presents with less redness, more subtle borders, and deeper pigmentation, complicating visual identification. Misdiagnosis rates are higher in these populations due to reliance on traditional ABCDE criteria (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, Evolving), which were developed primarily for lighter skin. Key visual distinctions include: - Color presentation: Dark brown, black, or blue-gray hues dominate, often with lighter or white centers (amelanotic or hypopigmented regions), particularly in acral lentiginous melanoma (palms, soles, nails). Example: A dark brown patch with a lighter, almost white core on the sole of the foot may indicate melanoma, whereas a similar lesion in lighter skin might appear red or pink. - Border characteristics: Less defined edges compared to benign lesions, with radial streaking (pseudopods) extending outward. Blue-black pigmentation at the periphery, often mistaken for a benign mole or fungal infection. - Subtype prevalence: Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM): Accounts for 50-70% of melanomas in darker skin tones, typically appearing as brown-black macules with irregular borders on palms, soles, or under nails. Nail involvement may present as proximal nail banding (Hutchinson’s sign) or diffuse pigmentation without a distinct border. Subungual melanoma: Often misdiagnosed as a fungal infection or subungual hematoma. Visual clues include uneven pigmentation, destruction of nail plate, or bleeding under the nail. Nodular melanoma: Less common but aggressive; may appear as a raised, dark blue-black nodule without preceding flat lesion. Visual Differences Between Pediatric and Adult Melanoma Melanoma in children and adolescents often arises from congenital nevi or genetic syndromes, presenting with unique visual and clinical features compared to sporadic adult-onset cases. Early detection is critical, as pediatric melanoma progresses rapidly. Key distinctions include: - Congenital nevi and melanoma risk: Children with large congenital nevi (>20 cm) or multiple small congenital nevi face a higher lifetime risk of melanoma, with lesions often developing sudden darkening, ulceration, or texture changes. Example: A smooth, hairless brown nevus in infancy may evolve into a rough, darkening patch with irregular borders by adolescence, signaling malignant transformation. - De novo melanoma in children: Location: Predominantly on head/neck (40%) or trunk (30%), unlike adult melanomas, which frequently occur on limbs. Subtypes: Spitzoid melanoma: Mimics Spitz nevi but exhibits rapid growth, ulceration, or deep invasion. May present as a flesh-colored or pink nodule with focal darkening. Nodular melanoma: Aggressive subtype in children, often black or blue-black, with rapid vertical growth. Associated syndromes: Familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome: Children may develop numerous atypical moles with irregular shapes, uneven color, and diameters >5mm. Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1): Pigmented lesions include café-au-lait spots and melanocytic nevi, with melanoma risk increasing with giant congenital nevi. High-Risk Populations and Unique Lesion Presentations Individuals with specific genetic, familial, or phenotypic risk factors exhibit melanoma with distinct visual patterns, often requiring dermoscopy or confocal microscopy for accurate assessment. High-risk groups include: - Individuals with multiple atypical moles (dysplastic nevi): Visual traits: Color variation: Dark brown, light brown, tan, or pink within a single lesion. Border irregularity: Scalloped, indistinct, or blurred edges. Size: Often >5mm in diameter, though smaller lesions may still be high-risk. Diagnostic challenge: Benign dysplastic nevi may resemble melanoma; growth over time or symmetry loss warrants biopsy. Familial melanoma patients: Early-onset lesions: Melanoma may appear earlier (before age 50) and in unusual locations (e.g., scalp, palms). Subungual involvement: Higher prevalence of Hutchinson’s sign (pigment extending to nail fold) in hereditary cases. Panuveal melanoma: Rare but aggressive; may present as ocular changes (e.g., vitreous seeds, retinal detachment) before cutaneous signs. Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., organ transplant recipients): Aggressive subtypes: Higher risk of nodular or lentigo maligna melanoma, which may lack classic ABCDE features but exhibit: Rapid growth (weeks to months). Ulceration or bleeding. Multiple primary melanomas. Atypical locations: Sun-protected areas (e.g., palms, soles, mucous membranes) due to immunosuppression-related impaired surveillance. Individuals with albinism or oculocutaneous albinism (OCA): Ultraviolet hypersensitivity: Melanoma may develop in early adulthood due to lack of melanin protection. Visual presentation: Red or pink lesions (amelanotic melanoma) due to vascular involvement. Rapidly expanding macules with central necrosis. Identifying melanoma relies on a combination of vigilance, knowledge, and systematic observation of skin lesions. By mastering the ABCDE rule, tracking visual changes over time, and distinguishing melanoma from other skin conditions, individuals can act swiftly when warning signs emerge. Whether through self-assessment tools, comparative analysis of lesion characteristics, or awareness of demographic variations, proactive skin monitoring saves lives. Remember, any mole that deviates from the norm—whether in shape, color, or behavior—demands professional evaluation. Early intervention not only improves treatment outcomes but also underscores the power of informed self-care in combating skin cancer. FAQ What does a melanoma look like on the skin? Melanoma often appears as a new, unusual mole or a change in an existing one. It may be asymmetrical, have uneven borders, multiple colors (black, brown, blue, red, or white), or grow larger than a pencil eraser. Some melanomas are dark brown or black, while others can be pink, red, purple, or even skin-colored. What does a melanoma look like when it first appears? Early melanoma may start as a small, dark spot or a mole that changes over time, often growing in size or becoming irregular in shape. It can also appear as a new lesion that looks different from others on your skin, sometimes with a mix of colors or a smooth, shiny surface. Early signs may also include itching, bleeding, or crusting. What does a melanoma look like on your skin? Melanoma can appear as a dark, unevenly colored mole with irregular edges, or as a flat or raised spot that changes over weeks or months. It may also look like a sore that doesn’t heal, a dark streak under a nail, or a new growth that bleeds easily. Some melanomas resemble benign moles but grow or evolve in appearance. What does a melanoma look like on the face? On the face, melanoma may appear as a dark or multicolored spot, often on sun-exposed areas like the cheeks, nose, or forehead. It can look like a new mole or a changing freckle with uneven borders, varying shades, or a shiny, pearly texture. Facial melanomas may also appear as a red, pink, or brown patch that grows slowly. What does a melanoma look like on the scalp? Scalp melanomas often start as dark, irregularly shaped moles or growths that may be hidden by hair. They can appear as shiny, bald patches, scaly lesions, or even as a dark streak under a hairline. Since the scalp is less visible, these spots may grow larger before being noticed, sometimes bleeding or becoming painful. What does a melanoma look like under the skin? Melanoma under the skin (like on the palms, soles, or mucous membranes) often appears as a dark, flat or raised patch without a clear border. It may look like a blue-black or brown-black bruise, a dark streak under a nail, or a painless lump. These types are harder to detect early, so changes in color, size, or texture should prompt a doctor visit. abcde-rule dermatology basics melanoma-visual-guide self-skin-examination skin-cancer-identification Leave a Comment Name Comment Post Comment Comments are moderated before appearing. The data you submit is processed according to the Privacy Policy of Voltefac.