It’s summertime, and for many that means lots of time outdoors at the beach, at the pool, traveling, and having fun with family and friends. It also means a lot of us are exposed to the highest intensity of sunlight within just a short few months. Sun damage, along with other environmental toxins such as smoking, can cause rapid and premature aging of the skin, along with serious damage like skin cancer.
Did you know the skin around the eyes is the thinnest and most sensitive skin on your body? As a result, it is often the first area on our face to show signs of aging and sun damage. Sometimes, chronic sun damage can lead to cancer of the skin, especially on the eyelids. Skin cancer of the eyelids is relatively common and several types exist. The presence of a nodule or lesion on the eyelid that grows, bleeds, or ulcerates should be evaluated promptly by a board certified ophthalmologist. This may involve an examination and sometimes a biopsy.
Basal cell tumors make up 90% of eyelid cancers. They grow slowly over months or even years. They often appear as a pearly nodule that may develop a central ulceration. Often, these tumors only spread locally, and with timely management, they can be excised then followed by reconstruction of the eyelids. The earlier the treatment, the better the prognosis.
Less commonly, aggressively tumors may appear on the eyelids, namely squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. These tumors may initially appear as a simple discoloration, a “mole”, or even just a scab or scale on skin. Early intervention is the key, as these tumors can quickly spread to other areas on the face as well as the body. Initial biopsy, followed by complete excision, and possible reconstruction is key.
Preventing Skin Cancer
Although successful management and treatment options for skin cancers exist, one can reduce the risk of occurrence with regular use of sunscreen, wearing solar protection, such as polarized sunglasses and large brim hats, and smoking cessation. It is important the sunscreen that one uses is a broad-spectrum product that protects from not only ultraviolet light but also infrared light. Additionally, multiple applications regularly throughout the day will provide maximum protection.
So, while enjoying your summer with friends and family, remember to protect yourself from premature aging, sun damage and skin cancer.
