Skin ChX Subiaco
Why Foot Skin Cancer is Often Overlooked
When most people think about skin cancer, their feet are probably the last place that comes to mind. But did you know that skin cancers can and do develop on the feet?
At Skin ChX Subiaco, we’ve seen firsthand how skin cancer can hide in unexpected places. That’s why we’re raising awareness about the skin cancer causes, signs, and steps you can take to protect your feet.
Feet are frequently forgotten in skin checks, sunscreen routines, and even during self-examinations. But despite being hidden away in shoes much of the time, your feet can still be vulnerable to sun damage, chronic irritation, and even skin cancers that arise without UV exposure.
Because lesions on the feet may resemble benign conditions like warts, fungal infections, bruises, or trauma, they’re often misdiagnosed or ignored. That’s why early detection and expert assessment, like those offered at Skin ChX Subiaco, are critical.
Types of Skin Cancer That Can Affect the Foot
Melanoma on the Foot
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. While it’s more commonly found on sun-exposed areas, acral lentiginous melanoma, a subtype, frequently appears on the soles, under toenails, or between toes. It may mimic bruising or dark streaks under the nail (nail bed melanoma), making it easy to dismiss.
At Skin ChX Subiaco, we’re trained to identify these subtle signs. If you notice an irregular mark, streak, or lesion on your foot, don’t delay. Melanoma can progress rapidly.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
SCC is the second most common skin cancer and can also occur on the foot. It may appear as a scaly patch, persistent ulcer, or crusted sore that doesn’t heal. Often associated with chronic inflammation or injury, SCCs on the feet are sometimes mistaken for infections or pressure sores.
Because SCC can spread to nearby lymph nodes if untreated, early diagnosis is vital. Our clinicians at Skin ChX Subiaco assess all suspicious lesions with the seriousness they deserve.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Although BCC is less common on the feet, it can still occur. Typically presenting as a slow-growing, pearly bump or sore that won’t heal, BCCs are more common in sun-exposed areas but should not be ruled out elsewhere, especially in fair-skinned individuals.
BCCs rarely metastasise but can become locally invasive. We routinely check the feet during full-body skin checks to catch early signs of BCCs.
Other Types
Other less common but serious skin cancers on the foot include nodular melanoma and amelanotic melanoma, which lacks pigment and can be easily missed. If a lesion is changing, growing, or behaving unusually, it needs medical attention.
Risk Factors for Foot Skin Cancer
Anyone can develop skin cancer on the foot, but certain factors increase your risk:
• Sun Exposure: Walking barefoot or wearing open shoes exposes feet to UV radiation
• Fair Skin: People with fair skin, freckles, and a tendency to burn are at higher risk
• Chronic Trauma or Inflammation: Persistent irritation, previous infections, or scarring can increase skin cancer risk
• Family or Personal History: A history of melanoma or other skin cancers increases susceptibility
• Immunosuppression: Medications or medical conditions that weaken the immune system also raise your risk
At Skin ChX Subiaco, we take a full medical history and risk profile to tailor your skin check accordingly.
What to Look Out For
Skin cancers on the feet may not present like those elsewhere. Keep an eye out for:
• New or changing moles, spots, or streaks under toenails
• Non-healing sores or ulcers
• Scaly, crusty, or bleeding patches
• Growths that look like warts or calluses but don’t improve
• Discolouration around the nail or changes in nail shape
Even subtle changes can be significant. If in doubt, get it checked. Early detection saves lives.
How We Treat Foot Skin Cancer at Skin ChX Subiaco
If a suspicious lesion is identified, we’ll refer you to an appropriate skin cancer doctor or specialist for:
• Surgical excision – Removing the lesion and surrounding tissue
• Mohs micrographic surgery – A precise method for complex or recurrent cancers
• Topical treatments – Medicated creams for superficial cancers
• Radiation therapy – In specific cases where surgery isn’t ideal
We do not perform biopsies or treatment at Skin ChX Subiaco. Our role is to identify suspicious lesions, provide high-quality skin checks using advanced tools, and refer appropriately.
Prevention Starts With Awareness
Here’s what you can do to protect your feet:
• Apply sunscreen to your feet, especially if wearing sandals
• Avoid tanning beds and prolonged barefoot sun exposure
• Conduct monthly self-exams, including the soles, between toes, and nail beds
• Schedule regular professional skin checks
At Skin ChX Subiaco, we offer comprehensive full-body skin checks that include the feet, because skin cancer can hide in plain sight.
Book Your Skin Check Today
Book your skin check today at www.skinchx.com.au and prioritise your foot health. Let us help you stay one step ahead of skin cancer.