Can you get cancer on your eyelid? Unfortunately yes; skin cancer on the eyelid is possible, especially since the skin around your eye is thinner than most other areas and therefore more prone to cell damage. What does skin cancer on the eyelid look like? We’ll answer these questions and more with this rundown.
Can You Get Cancer on Your Eyelid?
Any area of skin that sees excessive sun exposure is susceptible to skin cancer. Overexposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) rays causes skin cells to regenerate at an unnatural pace, causing damage to the layers above. Most faces are uncovered when outdoors, and although sunscreen helps provide a layer of protection, many avoid applying SPF over their eyelids due to sensitivity issues. This leaves your eyelids vulnerable to the sun’s harmful rays.
There are three different types of skin cancer on eyelids:
Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers are classified as non-melanoma skin cancers and are most common on the eyelid. Melanoma is less likely to develop on this area of the body, but all three types of cancer should be treated immediately for best results.
What Does Skin Cancer on the Eyelid Look Like?
The tissue around your eyelid is very sensitive, and even the most subtle of appearance changes can signal early signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer can develop above, below, or in the corner of your eye, so staying aware of changes will help you detect possible issues below the surface.
Skin cancer on the eyelid can look like:
- A firm, red bump
- A smooth, pearly, or shiny bump
- A reddish-brown scaly patch
- A flesh-colored lesion
- A sore that repeatedly scabs or crusts over
- A sty that refuses to heal
- A scaly, itchy sore
- A sudden loss of eyelashes
During your annual skin exam, your face and body will be carefully reviewed for any changes, but if you notice any of the above outside of your appointment window, be sure to schedule a check-up with your dermatologist for immediate review.
Skin Cancer on Eyelid Treatments
Treatment for skin cancer on the eyelid is a highly sensitive matter. Many patients are understandably nervous about procedures around the eyes, not only because sight is so important but also because they worry they’ll be staring down a scalpel. Luckily, there is an alternative to surgery called Image-Guided SRT, which uses radiotherapy to destroy cancerous cells. Rather than cutting into the skin, this non-invasive procedure channels a low-energy beam for a gentle yet effective treatment.
Your exact diagnosis will determine which treatment is best for your skin cancer on the eyelid.
How to Prevent Skin Cancer on Eyelids
Body parts that are frequently exposed to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) rays are at risk of developing skin cancer, including more sensitive areas like the eyelids. This is why practicing sun safety is so important. Taking the proper precautions before going outside can help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Wear protective clothing.
- Stay in the shade as much as possible
- Wear a hat with a wide brim that protects your face, head, ears, and neck.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more.
GentleCure™ is the Surgery-Free Treatment for Skin Cancer on Eyelids
If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer on the eyelid and are looking for an alternative to surgery, GentleCure™ treatment is just as effective as Mohs surgery without cutting or surgical scarring. Learn how it works and talk to your dermatologist about your options.
