Factoring for feet (Summer Sun)

Whether or not you are going abroad or staying in the UK, in summer months sun protection is very important to you.

Unfortunately, so many people forget to put sunscreen on their feet or don’t apply enough or often. This then results in very sore burnt and even blistered feet. When buying SPF always look for UVA and UVB protection and a good star rating. Apply at least a factor 30 and don’t forget the soles of your feet too. They will be exposed to the sun while laid sunbathing or walking on hot sands. 

Regular use of SPF everywhere can reduce your risk of squamous cell cancer and malignant melanoma by 40 and 50%. It also helps protect against sun damage like age spots and wrinkles too according to The Skin Cancer Foundation.

If you get sunburned feet:

1) Rest your feet …obvious but necessary!

2) Soak in cool water and dry carefully to calm.

3) Apply a cooling gel or cream.

4) If painful take anti-inflammatory medication. 

5) Stay out of hot sun and sit in shaded areas.

6) Wear loose breathable hosiery and shoes.

7) Drink plenty of fluids such as water. Remember alcohol dehydrates!

8) Protect skin with further SPF if going back out.

9) Rest when possible until pain subsides.

10) If severely burnt showing signs of fever or heat stroke, get medical attention.

If you develop blistering, please don’t pop them, however tempted you are. If the blister bursts unintentionally wash in antibacterial soap and water and dry very carefully. Apply antiseptic and cover with a clean preferably sterile non-stick dressing. Don’t use plasters!

If you are diabetic or have peripheral vascular disease or underlying health issues keep a very close eye on and if infections occur, seek urgent medical assistance.

For all your foot health issues see only professional specialists or podiatrists registered with the HCPC, the health care professional’s council in the UK.

Podiatrist is an international recognised health care provider term, and available in most countries with international standards of health care equivalent to the UK.