By Dr. Lori DeBlasi, DPM, FACFAS
Every year, Southwest Florida averages 260-335 days. We think about protecting our skin more during the summer months when the heat here is excessive, but we need to protect our feet from UV rays year-round. Exposure to the sun provides many health benefits, but it also delivers ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Excessive exposure can lead to sunburn, skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. Most people don’t realize that their feet are as vulnerable as other body parts to the damaging effects of the sun and UV radiation.
What Is UV Radiation?
Ultraviolet radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation. It is not visible to the human eye. It is produced by both the sun and artificial sources (Tanning beds, tanning lamps, certain medical lamps, and industrial processes). UV radiation is classified into several types.
UVA: Penetrates deeply into the skin and can cause long-term damage such as wrinkles and photo aging.
UVB: This is the primary type of UV radiation responsible for sunburn, leading to skin cancer.
UVC: This has the highest energy and is mostly absorbed by the Earth’s atmosphere.
How to Protect Your Feet from UV Radiation:
1. Apply sunscreen:
Use a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection) with an SPF of 30 or higher. SPF of 30 or higher typically blocks out 97 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays. Apply sunscreen to both the top and bottom of your feet. Don’t wait to apply sunscreen until you go to the beach, pool, or other outdoor destinations. If you have perspiration on your skin prior to application of the sunscreen, it will be less effective. Always apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before you plan to go outdoors to allow it to set and absorb. It must be reapplied regularly, especially after swimming or sweating. Even if you are not going into the water or not sweating excessively, it is still recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours while you are outdoors. Typically, it takes 1 ounce of sunscreen, the approximate size of a golf ball or a full shot glass, to cover an adult’s body.
2. Choose appropriate footwear:
If you are going to be spending time outdoors during peak sun hours, choose closed-toed shoes or sneakers rather than sandals or flip-flops. There are shoes available with UV protective materials designated with a UPF: Ultraviolet protection factor. These will help shield feet from harmful radiation when worn. Look for shoes and sandals with a UPF rating that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. There are some shoes designed with UV resistant material or coatings that will completely block or reflect this harmful UV radiation.
3. Seek shade:
The hottest part of the day is between 10 AM to 4 PM. During these peak hours of UV radiation exposure, consider staying in the shade or wearing a layer of protective clothing to minimize penetration. In the early evening and morning, the UV rays are weaker, and less exposure is occurring.
4. Regular foot checks:
Check your feet regularly for any signs of skin cancer. If you notice a new mole/skin growth or change in existing moles/skin growths, consult your podiatrist regarding these changes.
Your feet deserve the same level of protection from UV rays as the rest of your body. Prevention can reduce the risks associated with harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. In Southwest Florida, we need to protect our feet and the rest of our bodies year-round from the sun’s damaging UV rays.
So, if there is there is ever the question of whether we should apply sunscreen to your feet… the answer is YES!!!
Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Lori DeBlasi, DPM, FACFAS
Dr. Lori DeBlasi is certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery®. Dr. DeBlasi works at Family Foot & Leg Center at the Estero office. She is accepting new patients.
To make an appointment, call 239-430-3668 or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com.
21401 Corkscrew Village Lane,
Suite 4
Estero, FL 33928
(239) 430 – 3668 (FOOT)
www.NaplesPodiatrist.com