The Friday before Memorial Day is dubbed “Don’t FRY Day” by the Environmental Protection Agency.
As people prepare to enjoy the sunshine this weekend, it’s crucial to remember the importance of protecting their skin.
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Sensitive areas of the skin are more susceptible to sunburn and skin cancer. According to Dr. Mirwat Sami, an oculoplastic surgeon at Houston Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, approximately 5%-10% of skin cancers occur on the eyelids, an area frequently neglected during sun protection routines.
Q&A: Can eyelid cancer lead to blindness?
“When patients are diagnosed with skin cancer in the eyelid area, they are devastated because it’s such a central part of our face,” Dr. Sami said.
The consequences of untreated eyelid skin cancer can be severe, potentially leading to loss of sight and changes in appearance.
“Cancer can spread to deeper, more delicate structures,” he added. “What starts as a skin issue can infiltrate deeper structures and reach the eye socket.”
It is not advised to apply sunscreen on the eyelids, leaving them vulnerable. The only protection eyelids receive comes from sunglasses, which should be regularly checked for UV coating wear.
“If your sunglasses are scratched up, it’s a sign that the UV coating may need to be replaced,” Dr. Sami advised.
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Dr. Sami cautioned that even on cloudy days, UV radiation can still pose a risk.
For those who want to avoid purchasing new sunglasses, a visit to an eye doctor can provide a new UV coating for existing pairs.
Additionally, it’s important to note that UV protective clothing also loses its effectiveness after several washes, increasing vulnerability to sun exposure.
Q&A: Can people lose their eyelids to skin cancer?
Reconstruction and laser treatments have advanced significantly, allowing doctors like Dr. Sami to effectively rebuild the eyelid while preserving both appearance and function.
