There are 4 types of melanoma:

• Superficial spreading melanoma is the most common type. It often appears as spreading of dark pigment from a mole, and usually occurs on skin that has been exposed to sunlight.
• Nodular melanoma appears as a firm bump. It may grow from the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) into the second layer of skin (the dermis) more quickly than other types of melanoma.
• Lentigo maligna melanoma is the slowest growing type of melanoma. It appears as a dark stain with an uneven border, often on the face or arms. It is not associated with a mole.
• Acral lentiginous melanoma can appear as a dark bruise-like spot on the palm of the hand or sole of the feet, or under the nails. This type of melanoma is common in Asian people and people with darker skin (e.g. people of African descent), but is uncommon in fair-skinned people.