This summer is shaping up to be a warm one, and nobody wants to be aching after a day spent in the sun because they forgot to wear sunscreen. As a whole, we seem to be getting better at wearing sunscreen when we are out in the sun, but it can be easy to overlook certain areas of your body like your feet and ankles. We want your ankles and feet to be just as protected as the rest of your body, so we decided to put together a list of some ways you can protect them this summer.
Sunscreen Tips For Your Feet
Here’s a look at five ways to protect your feet with sunscreen during the hot summer months in Minnesota.
1. Use A High SPF Sunscreen – Sunscreens with higher SPF ratings offer more protection than those with a lower rating, so get in the habit of buying the stronger options. We don’t recommend going below SPF 30, but SPF 40 and up will offer some additional protection for your feet. Make sure you’re using sunscreen that’s at least 30 SPF.
2. Reapply Regularly – It’s always smart to get in the habit of reapplying your sunscreen regularly, but that’s especially true when it comes to your feet. Sunscreen is more likely to fade if you stuff your feet into socks or dip your toes in the pool, so reapply as directed by the bottle.
3. Always Wear Sunscreen With Sandals – Even if you’re not specifically going out to the beach or the park, it’s a good idea to throw some sunscreen on every time you slip on a pair of sandals. Other areas of your body can be well-protected by clothes, hats or sunglasses, but your feet are typically largely exposed when you wear sandals. Take a second to throw some sunscreen on your feet and ankles if you’ll be heading out in a pair of sandals.
4. Choose A Quality Sunscreen – Do a little research on sunscreen brands and figure out what is right for you and your family. The cheapest options isn’t always best, especially considering what you are asking of the product, which is to prevent skin burns and skin cancer. Invest in a high quality sunscreen that will keep you protected and won’t fade the moment you jump in the pool.
5. Regular Checks – Finally, get in the habit of performing regular checks of your body for new moles or spots. This can be especially helpful on areas like your feet and ankles that you may not see all that closely when you’re changing clothes or showering. Conduct a skin check at least once a month, and bring any new growths to the attention of your family physician or a dermatologist.
Keep your feet and your whole body free from sun damage this summer by being smart about your sunscreen habits. Don’t get us wrong, we want you to spend a lot of time outside enjoying summer, but you need to protect yourself from potentially harmful UV rays. And as always, if you suffer a foot or ankle injury during your summer escapades, reach out to Dr. Silverman and the team at Silverman Ankle & Foot for hands-on foot care. Give us a call today at (952) 224-8500.
