The skin on your feet is just as susceptible to damage from UV rays as anywhere else on your body, but many people forget that. July is UV Safety Awareness Month and a great time to share reminders about protecting your skin from harmful exposure and sunburn. Here’s what you need to know.

UV Rays 101

UV stands for “ultraviolet” and is part of the energy emitted by the sun and tanning beds. UV light is invisible but has the power to harm and burn your skin. There are different kinds of UV rays. The most common, UVA and UVB, act on the skin differently, but unprotected exposure to either or both damages the DNA in skin cells leading to:

• Premature aging
• Sunburn
• Skin cancer
• Eye damage
• Weakened immune system

Protect Your Skin

Fortunately, several ways to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation exist. Below are five suggestions:

1. Start with sunscreen – look for sunscreens labeled “broad spectrum,” which protect against UVA and UVB radiation. You’ll want a sun protection factor – SPF – of at least 15. A water-resistant variety will provide extra protection if you’re swimming or participating in an activity likely to cause you to sweat profusely.

2. Apply properly – sunscreen must be applied liberally to all skin exposed to the sun. Be sure to cover the tops and bottoms of your feet at the pool or beach. It’s also essential to reapply every two hours or after swimming. Yes, you can get sunburned while you’re in the water. There’s an even higher likelihood because the sun also reflects off the water and gives you additional exposure.

3. Cover up – don’t rely just on sunscreen. Look for clothing with SPF in the fabric. Use hats with broad brims, breathable clothing, and shoes that provide at least some skin coverage.

4. Seek the shade – peak sun hours are between 10 a.m. and 4p.m. If you’re out at that time, look for shade under awnings, umbrellas, covered porches, tree, and even the shady side of the street to reduce exposure.

5. Just say “No” to tanning beds. Using them before age 35 raises your risk for melanoma by 75%. Even one-time use of a tanning bed increases your risk for skin cancer.

Be sure to examine the skin on your feet periodically. If you notice any changes to existing moles or freckles (size, shape, or color) or discover new skin lesions ask your podiatrist to evaluate them.

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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!