June | 2026 | HairBlues

At the Healthline website, which I often read, the answer for Black People is YES…. Skin Cancer is also a cause of concern for taking precautions against the sun affecting their well-being.

Below are the facts, which I have taken the time to gather for your information and personal research.

Can Black People Get Skin Cancer?
Yes! Black people can develop skin cancer. Regardless of race or ethnicity, anyone can be exposed to the same environmental risk factors, such as UV rays.

Sources: Can Black People Get Skin Cancer?
Overall, skin cancer is less common in Black people. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that in 2021 (the most recent data available), one case of melanoma occurred per 100,000 Black people, compared with 30 cases per 100,000 white people.

Many times, Black people don’t receive a diagnosis until its later stages. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), 22% of melanomas in Black people receive a diagnosis after the cancer has already spread to surrounding lymph nodes, and 14% when the cancer has spread to distant lymph nodes and other organs.

You can read my post about the Great Bob Marley at the link below:
Is Sunscreen for Darker Skin People Necessary? | HairBlues

basal cell carcinoma is more commonTrusted Source in Hispanic and Asian American people than in Black people. Meanwhile, squamous cell carcinoma is more common in Black people and Asian Indians than in other people of color.

Location

Generally speaking, skin cancer often appears on areas of the body that get frequent sunlight exposure. Some examples of such areas include the:

face
ears
scalp
neck and shoulders
chest
arms and hands

Additionally, skin cancer on dark skin tends to show up more often in specific areas of the body. These include the: bottom of the foot lower legs, palms, under a fingernail or toenail, groin.

Finding care for skin cancer if you are Black.

If you’re looking for skin cancer care that focuses on dark skin, several resources can help:

AAD: The AAD has a search tool to help you find a board certified dermatologist in your area. Be sure to filter your search for a practice that focuses on skin of color.
Skin of Color Society. The Skin of Color Society aims to promote awareness and raise excellence in dermatology for skin of color.
Black Derm Directory. The Black Derm Directory is a resource to help you find a dermatologist who specifically focuses on conditions affecting dark skin.

Special Note:
Who is the Skin of Color Society? – Skin of Color Society

Healthline Source Link:
Skin Health Resources for the Black Community