When you think of all the places where you can get skin cancer, you probably think of your face, arms, and legs. But, it turns out skin cancer can grow in just about any area of your skin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the two most common and easily treatable types of skin cancer. Melanoma is less common and causes the most deaths reports the CDC.
The number one way to protect yourself from skin cancer is to stay out of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. This includes both during the summer and winter, and even on cloudy days. Not every type of skin cancer is completely preventable and it’s important to know all the places it can pop up on your skin.
Keep reading to learn more about the unusual places you can get skin cancer.
Scalp
One place on your body you might not suspect skin cancer is on your scalp. For most people, it’s well protected from the sun because of their hair but that doesn’t necessarily eliminate your risk for skin cancer. According to WebMD, “13-percent of total skin cancers are on the scalp, usually the less serious nonmelanoma cancers like basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.” Skin cancer on your scalp can look like a small, smooth lump that bleeds or is crusty.
To protect your scalp from skin cancer, wear a hat when you’re outside in the sun. If a hat isn’t feasible, then use sunscreen. Spray sunscreen is a good way to get protect your scalp from UV sunlight without using greasy lotion sunscreens. If you think a spot on your scalp is skin cancer, see your doctor for evaluation/confirmation.