Experts Reveal 3 Warning Signs of Lip and Nail Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

Could Your Chapped Lips or Nail Discoloration Be Something More Serious?

We’ve all experienced dry lips or noticed odd changes in our nails—but when should these seemingly minor symptoms raise red flags?

Medical experts warn that certain small changes on your lips and nails can be early signs of skin cancer, particularly lip cancer and nail melanoma. While these symptoms may seem harmless at first, spotting them early can lead to faster diagnosis, more effective treatment, and potentially life-saving outcomes.

Skin Cancer Is More Common Than You Think

According to Cancer Research UK, over 156,000 people are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer each year, while 17,500 are diagnosed with melanoma, the more serious form of skin cancer. Fortunately, 86% of melanoma cases are considered preventable, largely through UV protection and early detection.

A spokesperson for Usay Compare told The Mirror:
“Early detection of skin cancer greatly improves treatment outcomes and helps prevent the disease from progressing to a more serious stage.”

That’s why it’s crucial to recognize these three warning signs of skin cancer on your lips and nails.

1. Colorless or Pale Moles

Most people know to watch out for dark, uneven, or fast-growing moles, but did you know that colorless moles can also be dangerous?

While the ABCDE rule (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color, Diameter, Evolving) is typically used to spot suspicious moles, a pale or colorless mole might indicate early-stage melanoma. These can be harder to detect, so it's essential to monitor new or unusual moles closely—even if they appear faint or clear.

Tip: Any new or changing mole, regardless of color, should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

2. Persistently Chapped Lips

Chapped lips are common in cold or dry weather, but lips that remain cracked, dry, or irritated despite moisturizing could be a sign of something more serious—actinic cheilitis (AC).

What is Actinic Cheilitis?

AC is a precancerous condition caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun. Left untreated, it can develop into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Common symptoms of AC include:

• Rough or scaly patches on the lips

• Long-lasting ulcers

• Color changes or white patches

Note: AC typically affects the lower lip and may feel like it never heals.

3. Discolored or Deformed Nails

Changes in your nails' color, shape, or texture could be more than just cosmetic—they may point to subungual melanoma, a rare but serious form of skin cancer that develops under the nails.

Warning signs include:

• A dark streak running from the nail base to the tip (called melanonychia)

• Uneven or irregular pigmentation

• Nail cracks, splitting, or peeling

• Sudden nail deformities

While nail changes can also result from fungal infections or trauma, new and persistent abnormalities should always be checked by a healthcare provider.

Why Early Detection Matters

Skin cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when caught early. Ignoring subtle signs like colorless moles, constantly dry lips, or discolored nails could delay diagnosis and worsen outcomes.

Reminder: These symptoms don't guarantee you have cancer—but they are signals worth investigating.

Final Thoughts: Stay Aware, Stay Protected

If you notice:

• A pale or unusual mole,

• Chronic chapped lips,

• Or sudden changes in your nails...

... don’t wait—consult a dermatologist. These symptoms may be early signs of lip or nail cancer, and early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

Quick Prevention Tips:

• Wear broad-spectrum SPF lip balm when outdoors

• Apply sunscreen on your hands and nails

• Avoid prolonged sun exposure

• Perform monthly skin and nail checks

• See a specialist if you notice changes