Skin Cancer on the Scalp: What to Watch For

Most people know to check their arms, legs, or face for unusual spots, but the scalp is often overlooked. Because it’s harder to see and often covered by hair, skin cancer on the scalp may go unnoticed until it’s more advanced.

Understanding what scalp skin cancer looks like, the symptoms to watch for, and how to lower your risk can make a big difference in catching it early.

Why the Scalp Is at Risk

The scalp is exposed to the sun just as much as other parts of the body, yet many people forget to protect it. Ultraviolet (UV) rays damage skin cells and increase the risk of cancer.

Even if you have thick hair, your scalp is not fully shielded. Areas like the hairline, part line, thinning spots, and bald patches are especially vulnerable. Because the scalp has a rich blood supply, skin cancers that develop here may spread faster than those in other locations, making early detection essential.

Types of Skin Cancer on the Scalp

Several types of skin cancer can develop on the scalp, and each has its own appearance and risks.

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer. On the scalp, BCC may appear as a shiny bump, a pink growth, or a sore that doesn’t heal. It grows slowly and rarely spreads.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): The second most common form of scalp skin cancer. SCC may look like a rough bump, a red scaly patch, or a sore that bleeds and crusts. It grows faster than BCC and can spread if untreated.
• Melanoma: Less common but the most serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma on the scalp may look like a dark or multicolored spot with irregular borders or one that changes in size or shape. It can spread quickly, so early diagnosis is critical.

Symptoms to Watch For

Because the scalp isn’t as easy to check as other areas of skin, symptoms may go unnoticed. Signs of scalp skin cancer include:

• A sore that doesn’t heal
• A lump or bump that bleeds easily
• Red, scaly patches that are itchy or tender
• A mole or dark spot that changes in size, color, or shape
• A lesion with uneven edges or multiple colors
• Persistent pain, itching, or sensitivity in one area

If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule an exam with a dermatology provider right away.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While anyone can develop skin cancer on the scalp, certain factors increase the risk:

• Frequent or unprotected sun exposure
• Fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
• A history of sunburns, especially blistering ones
• Family or personal history of skin cancer
• Thinning hair or baldness
• Older age

Even if you don’t fall into a higher-risk group, scalp checks and sun protection are important for everyone.

What Does Scalp Skin Cancer Look Like?

Scalp skin cancer may appear differently depending on the type. It might look like:

• Shiny or pearly bumps that resemble pimples but never go away
• Crusty or scaly patches that flake or bleed
• Sores that heal, then return in the same spot
• Dark spots or moles with uneven edges, multiple colors, or growth over time

Because these signs can be subtle or hidden under hair, regular scalp checks are important. If you’re unsure about a spot, it’s best to have it examined.

How Scalp Skin Cancer Is Diagnosed

Dermatology providers begin with a full skin exam, carefully checking the scalp for anything unusual. If something looks suspicious, a small biopsy may be performed. This involves removing a small sample of skin to examine under a microscope. The skin cancer diagnosis results confirm whether cancer cells are present and what type of skin cancer it is.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, size, and stage of the cancer. Common options include:

• Surgical excision: Removing the cancerous tissue.
• Mohs surgery: A precise technique that removes thin layers of tissue until no cancer cells remain, preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing abnormal cells with liquid nitrogen.
• Topical or oral medications: Used for some forms of basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas.
• Advanced treatments: For melanoma or cancers that have spread, treatment may include immunotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy.

Your dermatology provider will recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your diagnosis.

Protecting Your Scalp from Skin Cancer

Prevention plays a big role in lowering risk. Simple steps can make a difference:

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
• Apply sunscreen to your scalp and part line, especially if you have thinning hair. Choose SPF 30 or higher.
• Avoid peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Ask your hairstylist or barber to alert you if they notice any unusual spots.
• Schedule regular skin checks with a dermatology provider.

When to See a Dermatology Provider

Any time you notice a sore, bump, or mole on your scalp that doesn’t heal or changes over time, it’s important to have it evaluated. Routine skin exams are also recommended, particularly for those with higher risk factors.

Dermatology providers are trained to identify skin cancer on the scalp early and recommend treatments tailored to your needs. Early diagnosis often leads to better outcomes.

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Book a Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer on the scalp is easy to miss but important to watch for. Knowing the warning signs, practicing sun protection, and keeping up with routine skin exams can help catch problems early. If you have concerns about a spot on your scalp, don’t wait.

Schedule an appointment with Schweiger Dermatology Group today. Call 844-DERM-DOC or book online to connect with a dermatology provider today.