01/07/2025

By Christine Comans – Skin ChX Subiaco

The Importance of UV Protection for Hands and Fingers

When we think about sun protection, we usually focus on the obvious places: our face, shoulders, and arms. But one of the most overlooked areas when it comes to UV protection is also one of the most exposed: our fingers.

At Skin ChX Subiaco, we regularly see how incidental sun exposure can affect areas people rarely think to cover with sunscreen or inspect for changes. Fingers, just like the nose, ears, and scalp, are regularly exposed to sunlight during everyday activities like walking, driving, gardening, or even just sitting near a sunny window.

Can Skin Cancer Develop on the Fingers?

Yes, and it’s more common than many people realise. Two of the three most common types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), frequently appear on the hands and fingers due to chronic sun exposure. Although less common, melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, can also develop on the fingers or even under the fingernails.

These cancers don’t discriminate by location. Anywhere the sun reaches is vulnerable, which is why full-body skin checks at Skin ChX always include close inspection of the fingers, nail beds, and hands.

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer on the Fingers

Some people are at higher risk than others, particularly if they have:

  • Fair skin, blonde or red hair, and light eye colour
  • A personal or family history of skin cancer
  • A weakened immune system
  • A history of severe sunburns or tanning bed use
  • Outdoor or UV-exposed occupations (like gardening, construction, or driving)

In Perth’s sunny climate, UV exposure is high year-round. Subiaco locals may underestimate their exposure during short errands or office breaks, but over time, that adds up.

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like on the Finger?

Some of the early signs of skin cancer we look for during skin checks include:

  • Rough or scaly patches that persist
  • Small, translucent or pearly bumps
  • Sores or lesions that won’t heal
  • New moles or spots, especially if they change in shape, colour or texture
  • Streaks or dark lines under the fingernails

Even something that looks like a “harmless” dry patch or a tiny bump near the nail bed could be a precancerous lesion, such as actinic keratosis or Bowen’s disease, which can progress if left untreated.

Melanoma Under the Nails (Nail Bed Melanoma / Subungual Melanoma)

Nail bed melanoma, also known as subungual melanoma, is a rare but serious type of skin cancer that appears under the fingernails or toenails. These terms are used interchangeably and refer to the same condition.

It often presents as a dark line or discolouration under the nail, which may be mistaken for bruising or a fungal infection..

Any persistent change to your nail should be professionally assessed, and at Skin ChX Subiaco, we take these signs seriously.

The Importance of Regular Skin Checks

Skin cancer can start with a subtle change. If you notice a spot on your finger (or anywhere on your body) that is new, changing, itching, crusting, bleeding, or simply doesn’t look right, it’s time for a professional opinion.

At Skin ChX Subiaco, your skin check is carried out by a dermal clinician trained in advanced dermoscopy. While I don’t perform biopsies at the clinic, if something suspicious is found, I’ll refer you directly to a skin cancer GP for further investigation and biopsy if needed.

How to Check Your Fingers at Home

Use the ABCDE rule of melanoma when inspecting moles:

  • Asymmetry
  • Border irregularity
  • Colour variation
  • Diameter larger than 6mm
  • Evolving (changing in any way)

Also check under the nails, between the fingers, and along the sides of the nail beds.

Simple Prevention Tips

Driving in Western Australia often involves long distances, and it’s common to find non-melanoma skin cancers on the tops of the hands due to prolonged sun exposure through car windows. Wearing driving gloves is a great idea, or alternatively, applying sunscreen to your hands before getting behind the wheel can help prevent damage.

  • Apply sunscreen to your hands and fingers, especially before driving or walking outside
  • Wear gloves when gardening or doing outdoor work
  • Avoid UV overexposure during peak hours
  • Don’t ignore small changes, even a “minor” spot can be the beginning of a more serious issue

Book a Skin Check at Skin ChX Subiaco

At Skin ChX, we’re passionate about early detection and education. Our clinic in Subiaco offers comprehensive skin checks in a calm, confidential setting, with a focus on areas people often overlook.

If it’s been a while since your last skin check or if you’ve noticed a spot on your fingers, hands, or nails that concerns you, don’t wait. Book a consultation today through skinchx.com.au and let’s stay ahead of skin cancer together.