Summer is here in the Pacific Northwest! While we want you to enjoy these next few months out in the sun, we also want to remind you on the importance of sun protection and your eyes. Skin cancer most commonly occurs on the face, head, neck, and arms as these body parts are most exposed to the sun. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that most commonly appears on the nose, cheeks, and yes, even eyelids. You can be proactive at preventing basal cell carcinoma by following these steps to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation.
 

Sun Protection

• Wear sunscreen. Always apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days.

• Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with long sleeves, pants, and a hat. A wide-brimmed hat can shield your eyes from direct sunlight.

• Wear sunglasses even if it is cloudy, as this will protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them. We recommend wearing UV-blocking sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wrap-around styles offer additional protection.

• Avoid tanning beds. Artificial UV radiation from tanning beds increase your risk of skin cancer.
   

Regular Skin Checks

• Self-examinations. Perform regular self-examinations to check for new growths or changes in existing moles, freckles, or spots. Look for Asymmetry, irregular Borders, Color changes, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving size, shape, or color (these are the ABCDEs of identifying a melanoma, which can also help identify other skin cancers). 

• Visit your dermatologist and your eye care professional. Schedule annual skin and eye exams especially if you have a history of skin cancer or a high number of moles.
   

Healthy Habits

• Avoid smoking. Smoking can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

• Maintain a healthy diet.  A diet rich in antioxidants (fruits, vegetables, nuts) to support skin health. 

By following these tips, you can protect your eyes and significantly reduce your risk of developing basal cell carcinoma and other eye conditions like cataracts and pterygiums. If you notice any suspicious skin changes on your eyelids or around your eyes, or if you are noticing new spots on the eye itself, call our office promptly to be seen.
 

 

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