The sun is a wonderful source of Vitamin D but overexposure to it can cause skin damage and skin cancers including those on the eyelids. Protecting the skin from sun-related damage should be an essential part of one’s skincare routine.

However, most people often forget to include in their routine protection for the eyelids. Sunglasses are great for protecting the eyes, but do not provide effective coverage for the eyelids. Sunscreens may also be used but some can be irritating when applied close to the eye.

The Importance of Protecting the Eyelids from the Sun

Skin cancers due to overexposure to the sun are likely to develop on the most sun-exposed areas of the skin, and the eyelids are no exception.

The delicate skin on the eyelids is prone to significant damage from the sun, making it necessary to take proactive steps towards protection. Studies show that basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers occur frequently on the lower eyelid. This is because the area is continuously exposed to sunlight without being shaded, and the layer of tissue beneath the surface of the skin is thin.

The Types of Skin Cancer that Can Affect the Eyelids

The skin on the eyelids can develop different types of cancer due to overexposure to the sun. These include:.

Basal cell carcinoma – This is the most common eyelid cancer and can develop on either the lower or upper eyelid. It may appear as a bump or a pimple-like sore on the skin that never heals. Basal cell carcinomas grow slowly but tend to be invasive and have high rates of recurrence.
Squamous cell carcinoma – This develops more frequently on the lower eyelid. It appears as a red, crusty patch on the skin surface, which can bleed easily. Squamous cell carcinomas can cause extensive damage compared to basal cell carcinomas.
Malignant melanoma – This is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and it can potentially spread throughout the body. It occurs less frequently than basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. Malignant melanoma on the eyelids can appear as an unusually dark mole, typically on the lower eyelid. Eyelid malignant melanoma can easily be missed in routine eye examinations.

Tips for Protecting Your Eyelids

Protecting the skin of the eyelids from the sun requires some specific strategies. Here are some tips:.

Wear sunglasses – Choose sunglasses that wrap around the eyes to provide better protection. Purchase sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection.
Wear a hat with a brim – A hat with a brim protects the eyelids as well as other sensitive skin areas on the face and scalp.
Apply sunscreen – Apply sunscreen to your eyelids with a cream formulation, which is less likely to run into the eyes. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF rating of 30 or higher.
Stay in shade – If possible, avoid the direct sun at midday when the sun is the strongest.

The Best Sunscreen for the Eyelids

The best sunscreen for use on the eyelids would generally be a physical blocker containing ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the primary active ingredient.

These ingredients play a pivotal role since they do not get absorbed into the body as chemical sunscreens do. As a result, they are less likely to cause irritation to the skin around the eyes. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are also excellent broad-spectrum sunscreens that block out UVA and UVB rays.

The Bottom Line

Protecting your eyelids from the sun is crucial. Unchecked and long-term exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can result in skin cancer, which is not only difficult to treat but can also result in permanent disfiguration.

Take proactive and meticulous steps to protect your eyelids from the sun, so they continue to serve you for a long time.