Yes, Your Feet Need Sunscreen Too!

If you’ve been worshiping the sun, enjoying sweet summertime, you’ve hopefully been applying (and re-applying) sunscreen. Your feet need sunscreen, too!

We all know about the dangers of sunburn and the effects of harmful rays of the sun on our skin, but there may be one body part you’ve forgotten to lather sunscreen on—your feet! If you’ve ever gotten sunburn on your feet, however, you’re not likely to forget again. Ouch!

Yes, your feet are just as susceptible to melanoma and other forms of skin cancer, like Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS), skin cancer of the foot can be fatal if not caught early enough.

The ACFAS revealed that the symptoms of skin cancer include:

• Melanoma: Pigmentation (coloration) of the skin that spreads to other areas of your body, while it continues to grow under a layer of skin.

• Basal cell carcinoma: Smooth, raised bump or a sore that won’t heal.

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Thick, red, scaly patches or a bleeding ulcer.

To avoid skin cancer on your feet, keep these tips in mind this summer:

• Apply sunscreen from head to toe and re-apply every 90 minutes, especially if you are swimming, sweating or in sandy conditions.
• Always check your feet regularly for abnormal moles or freckles that change in size or shape. Make sure to check between the toes and on the soles of your feet!
•  If you think something does not ‘look right’, make an appointment with a podiatrist to have it examined. Better safe than sorry!
• Schedule routine exams to check for any abnormalities of your skin.

Remember, a 60-second exam could save your life!

For more information about the dangers of skin cancer on your feet and to have your feet examined, visit the doctors at the Triad Foot & Ankle Center to schedule your appointment. Call (336) 375-6990 or click here to request an appointment.

 

Disclaimer: The information and other content provided in our blogs, videos, or in any other content or linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. For a full disclaimer, please click here.