Many people wonder whether dark spots on the hands could be a sign of melanoma. The answer is: sometimes. While many dark spots are harmless, some may be early indicators of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.

Melanoma starts in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. Though commonly found on the back or legs, melanoma can also appear on the hands, including the backs, palms (rarely), and under fingernails—a form called subungual melanoma.

To assess whether a spot might be melanoma, the ABCDE rule is helpful:
Asymmetry (uneven shape),
Border (irregular edges),
Color (varied or unusual tones),
Diameter (larger than 6 mm), and
Evolving (changes over time).
Other warning signs include itching, bleeding, crusting, sudden onset in adulthood, or looking different from other moles.

Still, most dark spots are benign. Often called age spots or liver spots, these are usually caused by long-term sun exposure or aging. Other causes include hormonal changes (like during pregnancy or menopause), liver issues, or vitamin deficiencies.

Any new, changing, or unusual spots should be checked by a dermatologist to rule out melanoma or other underlying health problems.

Preventive steps include using sunscreen daily, eating a balanced, antioxidant-rich diet, moisturizing regularly, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol. These habits support healthier skin and may help prevent or delay the appearance of dark spots.