When you check your nails for flecks or ridges, it’s because you’re after shiny, healthy talons, right? Well, there’s another reason to inspect your nails regularly, and that’s for signs of acral melanoma, a type of skin cancer.
‘Acral melanomas typically look like darker areas, spots or marks on the skin that can appear on the hands, nails and feet of people affected by the condition,’ explains Dr Nishali Patel, GP at NHS England. ‘They are usually painless and do not go away by themselves over time.’
This cancer’s less obvious signs make it hard to detect, which is why Melanoma UK has launched its Beauty Spotters campaign. By visually representing the signs as nail art they’re hoping to raise awareness of acral melanoma in the beauty world, to help people spot the symptoms sooner. ‘Early detection is vital, as this is the most important factor in successful treatment,’ says Dr Patel.
While this type of cancer is rare, affecting just 1-3% of people with melanoma, it’s most common in people with black or brown skin,’ says Dr Patel.
Dr Sharon Belmo, a consultant dermatologist based in London agrees: ‘Medical conditions can present differently in darker skin, so raising awareness of acral melanoma means people can become familiar with the signs to look out for.’
So, next time you’re having a mani-pedi session and you notice anything unusual, such as discolouration, don’t brush it off. Catch issues early on by snapping a photo and visiting your GP.
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And if you work as a beauty professional, keep an eye on your clients’ hands and feet.
Remember, check your nails, spot the signs, and potentially save a life. We can all be Beauty Spotters.
Acral melanoma: What to look out for
A new streak: in a nail that is not caused by an accident or bruise.
A nail streak: that has damaged the fingernail.
A changing spot: in or connected to a mole on the foot or hand.
An irregular-shaped growth: on the foot or hand, which is changing, growing or has an unusual colour.
An elevated, thickened patch: on the sole of the foot or palm of the hand.
Don’t stress – not all nail streaks are melanoma. In fact, acral melanoma is very rare, but like all types of skin cancer, checking for changes can be life-saving.
If you notice any of these signs on your hands, feet or nails, see your GP straight away.
Find out more at melanomauk.org.uk
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