October Newsletter
Vol. 10 | October 2026
Happy fall! No matter how cool the temperature, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can still cause damage to your skin and eyes within just a few minutes. Yes, even though it’s October, you can still get sunburned. Protect your skin with sunscreen, shade and clothing. And prevent sun damage to your eyes and eyelids by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.
Most skin cancers that develop around the eyes are basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). While BCCs rarely metastasize, 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.
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
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 8. We often say that skin cancer is the cancer you can see, but for the visually impaired, it may be challenging to identify warning signs. Thankfully, there are ways to stay on top of skin health and detect potential skin cancers.
Whitney’s Melanoma Story: The Skin Check that Changed Everything
Whitney’s melanoma did not look suspicious, but she trusted her instincts and advocated for a biopsy. She shares her story to support skin cancer awareness.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma at Age 23, Melanoma at 24: “People Aren’t Scared Enough of Skin Cancer”
Brinly was just 23 when she popped a little pimple on her upper lip. To her alarm, the lesion began to grow and change, prompting her to see a doctor. After several failed treatments, Brinly was referred to a dermatologist and got a shocking diagnosis: invasive squamous cell carcinoma.
Destination Healthy Skin Fall Schedule
Our Destination Healthy Skin (DHS) RV is on the road, traveling to communities around the country where volunteer providers perform free skin cancer screenings and give educational materials to the public. See our schedule of fall dates and places here.
October Is Estate Planning Awareness Month
By including The Skin Cancer Foundation in your estate plans, you can make a lasting difference in the fight against skin cancer. Leaving a legacy gift can provide tax benefits for you and your loved ones, while ensuring future generations have access to trusted skin cancer education, prevention programs, early detection initiatives and research that saves lives. Learn more at skincancer.org/legacy.
GivingTuesday Is December 1
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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