Skin Cancer
What is foot skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the growth of abnormal skin cells that can invade or spread to other parts of the body — and it can develop anywhere on the feet, including the soles, between the toes and under the toenails. Because these areas are easy to overlook, skin cancer on the foot is sometimes noticed later than on more visible parts of the body, which is why regular checks matter.
What causes skin cancer on the feet?
Most skin cancers are linked to ultraviolet (UV) exposure over time, but the feet present some unique considerations. People often forget to apply sunscreen to the tops of their feet, and some foot skin cancers — particularly certain melanomas — can appear in areas that get little or no sun at all, such as the sole or beneath a nail. Other contributing factors can include fair skin, a history of significant sun exposure, and a personal or family history of skin cancer.
What are the symptoms to watch for?
Foot skin changes worth having checked include:
- New moles or spots, or existing ones that change in size, shape or colour
- Dark patches under a toenail that aren't from an injury
- Sores or ulcers that don't heal as expected
- Irregular borders, uneven colouring or spots larger than a pencil eraser
- Itching, bleeding or crusting lesions
These signs don't necessarily mean cancer — but they do mean it's worth getting a professional opinion.
How does Blueprint Podiatry help?
Our podiatrists are well placed to keep an eye on the skin and nails of your feet, especially for patients who find it difficult to bend down and inspect their own feet. During routine and dermatological foot care appointments, our podiatry team — all university-qualified, registered podiatrists — examine the skin and nails closely as part of your overall foot health.
Importantly, podiatrists do not diagnose or treat skin cancer. If our team notices anything concerning, we'll refer you promptly to your GP or a specialist for proper assessment and, where needed, biopsy or treatment. Think of us as a valuable extra set of trained eyes on an area you can't always see clearly.
Alongside skin monitoring, our Tuggerah clinic offers a full range of foot care — from general nail care and wound management to gait assessments and custom orthotics — with appointments available 7am–7pm on weekdays.
When should you seek help?
If you notice any new, changing or non-healing spot on your foot, have it checked sooner rather than later. Early detection makes a meaningful difference, and emerging tools are also being explored to support early identification in primary care settings.[2] Sensible sun protection, including sunscreen, may also help reduce risk.[1]
Citations
- Silva ESD et al. Use of sunscreen and risk of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Dermatol 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29620003/
- Jones OT et al. Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms for early detection of skin cancer in community and primary care settings: a systematic review. Lancet Digit Health 2022. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35623799/
Medically reviewed by Matt Shanahan, registered podiatrist (AHPRA POD0001603396), Blueprint Podiatry.
Last reviewed: 21 June 2026.
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Frequently asked questions
Can a podiatrist diagnose skin cancer on my foot?
No — diagnosis requires a GP or specialist, often with a biopsy. What our podiatrists can do is closely monitor the skin and nails on your feet and refer you promptly if we spot anything that needs further assessment.
Why would skin cancer appear on the sole of my foot if it never sees the sun?
Some foot skin cancers, including certain melanomas, can develop in areas with little or no UV exposure. That's exactly why any new, changing or non-healing spot on the sole or under a nail is worth having checked.
How often should I have my feet checked?
If you have ongoing foot care needs, struggle to see or reach your feet, or have a history of skin cancer, regular podiatry visits to our Tuggerah clinic are a good opportunity for our team to keep an eye on your skin. For any specific concern, don't wait — book in or see your GP.
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