When people think of skin cancer, they often imagine moles on their back or sunspots on their arms. But there’s one area that’s frequently overlooked — your eyes. Yes, it’s true. Your eyes and the delicate skin surrounding them are just as vulnerable to sun damage as the rest of your body. In some cases, this can lead to skin cancer developing around or even in the eye.
At Station Road Medical Centre, we’re committed to educating our community on all aspects of skin health. Understanding how skin cancer can affect your eyes and knowing the steps to take for prevention and treatment can protect your vision — and potentially your life.
Can You Really Get Skin Cancer in Your Eyes?
Yes, you can. Skin cancer in or around the eyes usually presents in one of two forms:
-
Eyelid skin cancer: This is the most common form, and it typically affects the lower eyelid. It can appear as a bump or lesion that may bleed or crust over.
-
Ocular melanoma: This rare type of cancer forms in the pigment cells of the eye. It’s more serious and often harder to detect without a proper eye examination.
These cancers can develop silently and be easily mistaken for benign conditions, which is why regular skin and eye checks are vital.
Risk Factors for Eye-Related Skin Cancer
While anyone can be at risk, certain factors make some individuals more vulnerable:
-
Prolonged sun exposure without adequate eye protection: Extended time in the sun without sunglasses or hats increases UV exposure, raising the risk of skin cancer around the eyes.
-
Fair skin and light-colored eyes: Individuals with fair skin and light eyes (blue, green, or gray) are more sensitive to UV damage and are at a higher risk for skin cancer.
-
History of frequent sunburns: A history of sunburns, particularly during childhood, can increase the likelihood of skin cancer developing around the eyes later in life.
-
Use of tanning beds: Tanning beds expose the skin to concentrated UV rays, which can damage the delicate skin around the eyes and increase skin cancer risk.
-
A family or personal history of skin cancer: A family history of skin cancer, or having had skin cancer previously, makes individuals more susceptible to developing eye-related skin cancers.
If you tick several of these boxes, it’s wise to visit a skin cancer clinic in Ipswich for a comprehensive screening.
Signs to Watch Out For
Being vigilant about changes around your eyes can help in early detection. Look out for:
-
A persistent lump or bump on the eyelid: A new growth that doesn’t go away or changes over time could be a sign of skin cancer around the eyes.
-
Skin discoloration or new growths: Dark spots or unusual skin changes, especially around the eyes, should be examined by a professional.
-
Sores that don’t heal or keep returning: Any sores or wounds near the eyes that persist or recur could indicate skin cancer.
-
Changes in vision or new floaters in the eye: Vision changes or new floaters (small specks that move in your vision) might signal ocular melanoma or other eye issues.
-
A pigmented spot on the white part of the eye: Dark spots or growths on the sclera (white part) of the eye could be a sign of skin cancer or melanoma in the eye.
These symptoms aren’t always signs of cancer, but they should be assessed by a professional just to be safe.
The Importance of Early Detection
Early detection dramatically improves the success rate of treatment. Cancers found early are usually less invasive and can be removed more easily. At Station Road Medical Centre, our experienced medical team performs thorough skin checks, including the sensitive areas around the eyes.
We use advanced diagnostic tools to examine any suspicious lesions and, if needed, perform biopsies to confirm the diagnosis. Our partnership with dermatologists and ophthalmologists ensures you receive specialized care when necessary.
Protective Measures: What You Can Do
Fortunately, many cases of skin cancer around the eyes are preventable. By adopting smart habits and protecting yourself from harmful UV rays, you can significantly lower your risk.
Here’s how you can safeguard your eyes and the surrounding skin:
-
Wear sunglasses: Choose wrap-around styles that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
-
Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen around the eyes. Mineral-based products tend to be gentler in this sensitive area.
-
Wear hats: A wide-brimmed hat can shield your face and eyes from direct sunlight.
-
Avoid peak sun hours: Stay indoors or in the shade during midday when UV rays are strongest.
-
Schedule regular skin checks: See a professional yearly, or more often if you’re high-risk.
What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Screening
When you book an appointment at our skin cancer clinic Ipswich, we carry out a thorough skin assessment. This includes inspecting all parts of your body — including around and on the eyelids — for suspicious lesions or growths.
The procedure typically involves:
-
Reviewing your medical and family history
-
A head-to-toe skin examination with a dermatoscope
-
Close evaluation of moles, freckles, or bumps
-
Immediate feedback and next steps if anything abnormal is found
If a biopsy is required, we’ll explain the process, answer your questions, and refer you to the appropriate specialist for further care.
Treatment Options for Eye-Related Skin Cancer
If skin cancer is detected around or in your eye, treatment will depend on the type, size, and location of the lesion.
Common treatments include:
-
Surgical excision: The cancerous tissue is removed along with a small margin of healthy skin.
-
Mohs surgery: Often used for eyelid cancers, this technique preserves as much healthy tissue as possible.
-
Radiation therapy: Used in cases where surgery isn’t feasible or for deeper lesions.
-
Targeted drug therapy or immunotherapy: These are options for advanced or aggressive cancers.
In all cases, early treatment is essential to prevent spread and preserve both function and appearance.
Supporting Eye Health All Year Round
It’s important to think of eye protection as a daily habit, not just something for beach days. Australia has some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world, which means consistent protection is critical, even on cloudy days.
Keep these simple strategies in mind:
-
Make sunglasses and sunscreen part of your daily routine
-
Be cautious near water, snow, or sand where UV rays reflect strongly
-
Teach children sun safety from a young age
Partner with Station Road Medical Centre for Expert Care
At Station Road Medical Centre, we understand how frightening a cancer diagnosis can be — especially when it involves your eyes. That’s why we provide compassionate, expert care in a comfortable, accessible setting. From routine checks to treatment coordination, we’re here every step of the way.
Our skin cancer clinic Ipswich offers appointments throughout the week with experienced general practitioners trained in skin cancer detection and treatment. Don’t wait for a sign that something’s wrong — prevention and early detection are your best defense.
Contact Us Today
Protect your eyes and your health by booking a skin cancer screening with Station Road Medical Centre. Contact us today at (07) 3816 1155 or email admin@srmcbooval.com.au.
Your eyes deserve the same attention and care as the rest of your body. Let us help you keep them safe.