A day at the beach may have you and your family lathered in sunscreen, but our Annandale VA podiatrist urges you to not forget about your feet! Whether you are at the pool or just taking a stroll in sandals, your feet and ankles are often exposed to the sun throughout the summer months. Keep these pointers from our podiatrist in Annandale in mind the next time you catch some rays.
Our Annandale VA Podiatrist Warns to Keep Feet Safe from Sun
Protecting your skin from ultraviolet rays is crucial to proactively preventing melanoma and other forms of skin cancer from developing on your skin—including your feet. In fact, your feet are highly susceptible to these illnesses. Our Annandale VA podiatrist knows that it can be easy to forget about applying sunscreen to your feet as diligently as you would the rest of your body. To help you remember to protect your feet our Annandale podiatrist recommends following the head-to-toe rule of sunscreen—literally. Not only will this practice help you to remember to cover your feet, but it will also help you remember other neglected areas like the tops of your ears and eyelids.
Are Tans as Dangerous as Burns?
Our Annandale podiatrist says yes. Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays are responsible for giving your skin a tan. Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays are what cause your skin to burn. Contrary to common belief, both are harmful to your skin cells because both tans and burns are signs that the skin has been damaged by radiation. Doctors used to warn specifically against UVB rays, but our podiatrist in Annandale VA says that today’s research shows that both are harmful. To protect against both UVA and UVB rays, be sure to look for sunscreen that is broad spectrum.
Our Annandale VA Podiatrist Says to Regularly Monitor Feet for Suspicious Changes
Early detection is key to tackling skin cancer. You may not look closely at your feet as often as you do your face or arms, but noticing warning signs on your feet may save your life. Abnormal moles, freckles, or pigmented skin are all flags that you should immediately visit your podiatrist or dermatologist to have your feet and skin further examined. Look for unusual spots anywhere on the feet, including the soles and under the toenails. If you notice a change in size, shape, or color, you are also more than welcome to call our Annandale VA podiatry office to schedule a consultation.
Our staff at The Podiatry Center hopes you have a safe and enjoyable summer!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office location near Annandale VA, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
