October Newsletter
Vol. 10 | October 2025
Focus on safety by protecting the delicate skin around your eyes from skin cancer and premature aging every day, no matter the weather.
Most skin cancers that develop around the eyes are basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). While BCCs rarely spread, they can grow wider and deeper into the skin if left untreated. This can make surgery difficult, with the potential to cause tissue damage and/or blindness. Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) account for a smaller percentage of eyelid skin cancers and have a higher chance of spreading. Melanoma, a more dangerous form of skin cancer, can occur around and in the eye (ocular melanoma), but it is far less common.
Fortunately, you can prevent sun damage to your eyes and eyelids by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, applying sunscreen and seeking the shade.
And remember, even though it’s October, you can still get sunburned! A warrior from our Facebook community just shared this story:
“The worst sunburn of my life happened at a football game in early October years ago. Was outdoors from 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM. Who would have thought about sunburn in the autumn? Ended up in ER next day with bad burns. Please everyone wear sunscreen!”
Protect your skin every day and check it from head–to toe monthly. And if you see anything new, changing or unusual, do not wait! Go get checked by a dermatologist.
Dr. Sarnoff Says
New on the Blog
In My Mother’s Eyes: Her Ocular Melanoma Story
Ocular (meaning “of the eye”) melanoma is very different from cutaneous (“of the skin”) melanoma. Learn more about this rare form of melanoma.
Skin Cancer Detection Through Touch, Technology & Teamwork
World Sight Day was October 9. We often say that skin cancer is the cancer you can see, but for the visually impaired, it may be challenging to identify skin cancer warning signs. Thankfully, there are ways for visually impaired people to stay on top of skin health and detect potential skin cancers early.
Gordon Ramsay’s Skin Cancer: The News Heard Around the World
When celebrity chef and restauranteur Gordon Ramsay revealed that he was treated for basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the news quickly went viral, serving as a global PSA about the dangers of skin cancer.
Destination Healthy Skin Fall Schedule
Our Destination Healthy Skin (DHS) RV is on the road, traveling to communities around the country where volunteer dermatologists will provide free skin cancer screenings and educational materials to the public. See our schedule of fall dates and places here.
GivingTuesday Is December 2
Mark your calendars for #GivingTuesday. Each year, this global generosity movement reminds us that when we team up, we can make a profound difference. All around the world, the #GivingTuesday spirit of unity inspires hundreds of millions of people to do good. It’s a beautiful thing!
Pick a cause that gets you fired up – like The Skin Cancer Foundation – spread the word about our free skin cancer screenings, education and research – and get out the give!
Monthly Giving: Join Our Skin Protection Fund
Join our community of monthly donors and become a member of the Skin Protection Fund (SPF). Your recurring gift will steadily support the lifesaving programs of the Foundation and help us educate the public and the medical community about skin cancer, its prevention by means of sun protection, the need for early detection and prompt, effective treatment. Learn more and donate here.
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