Melanoma: Reality, Myths, and a Few Numbers

October 28, 2025

2 min read

During the summer, everyone wants to sunbathe and get a powerful dose of vitamin D. However, it is important to be aware of melanoma — one of the most dangerous types of cancer that develops as a result of prolonged exposure to sunlight. There are many misconceptions about this type of skin cancer. Let’s sort out the facts from the myths.

Key takeaways

During the summer, everyone wants to sunbathe and get a powerful dose of vitamin D.

Who this is for

People exploring Preventive Oncology through skin, cancer.

Why it matters

This piece helps you get oriented quickly, then move into a collection or series if you want to keep going.

Article author

Dr. Mary

Dermatovenerologist

Myth 1: Melanoma only affects the skin

Fact: This type of cancer most often develops on the skin. However, melanoma can also appear in the eyes, on the scalp, under the nails, on the soles of the feet, and on mucous membranes.

Myth 2: Melanoma develops from existing moles that turn malignant

Fact: Very often, melanomas develop on normal skin — not just from existing moles. That’s why it’s especially important to pay attention to new moles.

Myth 3: Only fair-skinned people are at risk

Fact: It is true that people with fair skin are at higher risk for this type of cancer. However, melanoma can affect people of all races and skin tones.

In people with darker skin, the disease is often diagnosed at a later stage, when it is more difficult to treat.

Myth 4: Melanoma is always dark in color

Fact: Melanomas can be pink, red, purple, or even colorless.

Myth 5: Skin cancer is easy to treat

Fact: Most types of skin cancer are effectively treated. However, melanoma is a special case as it responds well to treatment only in the early stages. That’s why regular skin checks and prompt visits to the doctor at the first sign of concern are so important.

Melanoma often appears as a dark spot or mole with uneven edges, varied color, and asymmetrical shape. Sometimes it looks like a rapidly growing new mole.

Myth 6: Melanoma only affects older people

Fact: While skin cancer is more common among older adults, it can occur at any age. It’s actually one of the most common cancers among young people — especially women.

Myth 7: Tanning beds are safe

Fact: According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, indoor tanning devices emit 10–15 times more UV radiation than the sun. Using tanning beds increases the risk of developing melanoma by 75%.

Myth 8: Only people who spend a lot of time in the sun get melanoma

Fact: Even a single severe sunburn in youth can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Five or more serious sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 increase the risk by 80%.

Myth 9: It’s safe to sunbathe on cloudy days

Fact: There is no such thing as a safe tan. UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it's important to wear sunscreen every day — regardless of the weather. You’re exposed to harmful UV radiation even on cloudy days, especially when near water.

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