Skin cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, and it can develop in different parts of the body, including on existing scars. While scars are generally seen as cosmetic issues that fade with time, they can occasionally be the site of skin cancer. Understanding how skin cancer scars form and how to detect them early can be the key to effective treatment.

Skin cancer affects over 1 in 5 people during their lifetime (American Academy of Dermatology, 2023). Although most cases develop on healthy, sun-exposed skin, rare cases known as Marjolin’s ulcers can develop in old scars or wounds. Recognizing these changes early is critical for effective treatment and prevention.

Whether you have a scar from a melanoma excision or basal cell carcinoma removal, it’s important to keep a close eye on any changes in the scar area. Early detection is crucial in ensuring the best possible outcome, as skin cancer caught early is much easier to treat.

This article explores how skin cancer can develop in scar tissue, the appearance of skin cancer scars, and how to manage them effectively.

What is Skin Cancer and How Does It Relate to Scars?

Skin cancer develops when skin cells start growing uncontrollably, forming abnormal growths that can spread to other parts of the body. The most common types of skin cancer are:

• Melanoma: A dangerous type of skin cancer that develops in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) of the skin.
  

• Basal cell carcinoma: The most common form of skin cancer, usually found on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun.
  

• Squamous cell carcinoma: More aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, often developing in areas exposed to sunlight, but can also form in scars or wounds that haven’t healed properly.

Scars, particularly old scars, have a higher risk of developing skin cancer for several reasons:

• Weakened tissue structure: Scar tissue is structurally different from regular skin, lacking the same elasticity and regeneration properties. This can sometimes create an environment where abnormal cells are more likely to grow.
  

• Chronic inflammation: If a scar is consistently irritated or exposed to harmful UV rays, the chronic inflammation can increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer in the scar area.
  

• Pre-existing damage: Scars from past injuries, surgeries, or burns can be susceptible to further damage. The skin in the scar area may already have been weakened by injury or surgery, making it more vulnerable to the development of cancer.

Although rare, research shows that between 0.1–2.5% of chronic scars can undergo malignant transformation (Acta Derm Venereol, 2020). Most of these cases are squamous cell carcinomas that appear years—sometimes decades—after the initial injury (Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, 2018).

Understanding how scars form and their potential to develop into skin cancer can help you monitor any changes and act early if necessary.

Can Skin Cancer Grow on a Scar?

A common concern is whether skin cancer can grow on a scar. The short answer is yes. Scar tissue, especially if it has been exposed to the sun, can become a site where skin cancer may form. Here’s why:

• Scar tissue is not immune to cancer: Scar tissue is not "normal" skin, and as a result, it may behave differently. A scar is made up of fibrous tissue and doesn’t regenerate like healthy skin does. This can sometimes result in changes that make the tissue more susceptible to cancerous growth.
  

• Sun exposure: If a scar has been exposed to the sun without protection, it can become damaged and prone to developing skin cancer. Scars formed from injuries or surgeries in sun-exposed areas like the face, arms, or neck are especially at risk.
  

• Chronic irritation: Scars that are regularly irritated, for example from tight clothing, frequent movement, or scratching, may have a higher likelihood of developing abnormal cells. This irritation can trigger inflammation and damage to the tissue, which can set the stage for skin cancer to develop.

Keloid scars which are raised, thickened scars are particularly vulnerable to becoming sites for skin cancer. Because keloids tend to be more noticeable and may be in areas that are constantly exposed to irritation, they are at a higher risk.

Protecting scars from UV exposure is essential. Using a broad-spectrum silicone-based scar gel with SPF 30, such as BIOCORNEUM®, helps block harmful UV rays while supporting collagen balance and hydration. This combination is particularly important for surgical or post-cancer excision scars exposed to sunlight.

What Does a Skin Cancer Scar Look Like?

Knowing what a skin cancer scar looks like is essential for early detection. Skin cancer scars can have distinct features that set them apart from normal scars. Some signs to look out for include:

1. Changes in Color: One of the most noticeable signs of a developing skin cancer scar is a change in color. A scar that becomes darker, develops uneven pigmentation, or turns red or purple should raise concern. These color changes may indicate abnormal cell growth beneath the skin’s surface.
   

2. Irregular Borders: While normal scars tend to have smooth, even edges, a skin cancer scar may have jagged or irregular borders. This is a hallmark of abnormal cell growth, as cancer cells tend to spread out in an unpredictable fashion.
   

3. New Growth: If a scar that has been present for a long time starts growing or developing new lumps, bumps, or raised areas, it could be a sign of skin cancer. A benign scar should not grow or change shape significantly over time, but a skin cancer scar may show signs of new tissue forming on the surface.
   

4. Itching, Bleeding, or Pain: Scars generally shouldn’t itch excessively or cause pain. If a scar begins to itch persistently, or if it starts to bleed or excrete fluids without any known reason, it may be a sign of skin cancer. Skin cancers like melanoma and basal cell carcinoma may cause itching or bleeding as the tumor grows beneath the skin.
   

5. Changes in Texture: A scar that was once flat and smooth but becomes rough, scaly, or crusty could be a sign that skin cancer is developing. This is particularly important for melanoma scars, which may begin to show raised areas or rough patches.

For example, basal cell carcinoma scar pictures often show small, shiny, or pearly bumps with visible blood vessels. Melanoma scars, on the other hand, might present with asymmetry, irregular edges, and dark or multi-colored pigmentation.

If a scar changes in color, texture, or size, consult a dermatologist immediately. Early detection improves survival rates by over 90% (Skin Cancer Foundation, 2023).

Symptoms and Warning Signs of Skin Cancer in Scar Tissue

While skin cancer in scar tissue is rare, it is important to stay vigilant. Here are some additional symptoms and warning signs to look out for:

• Size Changes: If a scar begins to expand or grow larger over time, especially after the initial healing period, it could be a sign of skin cancer.
  

• Texture Changes: A scar from skin cancer removal might develop new textures, such as becoming hardened or developing a rough surface. This is particularly concerning in melanoma scars.
  

• Ulceration: If a scar starts developing open sores, ulcers, or lesions, this could be a sign that cancer cells are growing beneath the skin.
  

• Tenderness: If the scar becomes painful or tender to the touch, it could be a result of inflammation or irritation caused by skin cancer.

Does Removing Skin Cancer Leave a Scar?

When skin cancer is removed, whether it’s melanoma excision or basal cell carcinoma removal, a scar is typically left behind. The extent and visibility of the scar will depend on several factors, including:

• Type of cancer: Melanoma excision scars tend to be larger and more noticeable because melanoma tends to grow deeper into the skin. On the other hand, basal cell carcinoma excision scars may be smaller and less noticeable but can still leave permanent marks.
  

• Location: The location of the surgery also plays a big role in the appearance of the scar. Scars on the face, for instance, may be more visible than those on less exposed areas.
  

• Healing process: The way your skin heals after the surgery will also impact the appearance of the scar. For example, some people are more prone to developing keloid scars, which are raised and thick, making the healing process a bit more challenging.

However, most skin cancer removal scars can be managed with proper aftercare, including the use of silicone gel sheets, pressure garments, and laser treatments to minimize the scar’s appearance.

A 2016 study in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery found that medical-grade silicone gel can reduce hypertrophic scarring by up to 68%. BIOCORNEUM® combines Silishield® crosslinked silicone with SPF 30 to help flatten raised scars, fade discoloration, and protect against UV damage during recovery.

How to Treat Skin Cancer Scars

Managing skin cancer scars is an important part of the recovery process. Here are some of the best treatment options to reduce scar formation:

1. Silicone Gel Sheets or Gels: The use of silicone products is the gold standard for scar treatment. Silicone helps to hydrate and flatten scars, reducing the visibility of skin cancer scars over time.
   

2. Pressure Garments: If you’ve undergone a large excision or have a burn-related skin cancer removal scar, pressure garments can help minimize the appearance of the scar and prevent it from becoming raised or thickened.
   

3. Laser Treatments: Laser therapy is an excellent option for improving the texture and color of melanoma surgery scars. Lasers work by resurfacing the skin and promoting collagen production, helping the scar heal more evenly.
   

4. Topical Treatments: Retinoids and other topical treatments can stimulate collagen production and speed up the fading process for skin cancer scars.

5. BIOCORNEUM® Silicone Scar Treatment

• • Combines Silishield® professional-grade silicone with broad-spectrum SPF 30.

  • Creates a breathable barrier that hydrates, flattens, and softens scars.

  • Recommended by surgeons for post-melanoma, basal cell, and surgical scars.

  • Available in 10g ($55), 20g ($75), and 50g ($130) sizes.

  • Purchase directly from BIOCORNEUM.com.

Clinical tip: Begin silicone therapy once the incision is fully closed and continue daily for 8–12 weeks for optimal results.

Can a Scar Turn into Cancer?

While the chances of a scar turning into cancer are low, it’s not impossible. Internal scar tissue that hasn’t fully healed or has been repeatedly irritated could eventually become a site of cancer growth. Here’s why:

• Chronic inflammation: Scars that remain inflamed for long periods can potentially lead to cancerous changes. This is especially true for sun-damaged scars.
  

• Tissue breakdown: Over time, the body continues to repair and regenerate scar tissue. In some cases, this process can go awry, leading to abnormal cell growth that may develop into skin cancer.

Studies show that Marjolin’s ulcer typically appears 10–30 years after the initial injury (Burns Journal, 2017).

Chronic inflammation and UV damage are the leading triggers for this rare transformation.

Conclusion

Skin cancer scars require ongoing attention and care. Although rare, cancer can sometimes recur or change in previously treated areas, making regular monitoring of skin cancer removal scars and melanoma excision scars essential. Examine your scars frequently for any changes in color, size, or texture—especially on areas exposed to the sun.

BIOCORNEUM®, the only advanced silicone gel with Silishield® technology and SPF 30, is clinically proven to help protect and improve the appearance of skin cancer scars. It hydrates, softens, and shields healing skin from UV damage, supporting long-term scar health and confidence.

Beautiful outcomes begin with BIOCORNEUM®.