Summer is a time for picnics, recreational activities, swimming pools, beaches, and simply unwinding. UV Safety Awareness Month happens every July. As we take advantage of the sunny weather outside, it is best to follow safety measures to protect yourself from UV exposure.

Sunlight brings with it ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While exposure to the sun may provide health benefits, excessive exposure can lead to skin damage and skin cancer.

What Is UV Radiation?

Ultraviolet radiation is energy produced by the sun. The radiation travels via the sun’s rays —the two common types of UV rays are UVA and UVB. Sun lamps and tanning beds are other sources of ultraviolet radiation. The immune system and the eyes may both suffer as a result. Skin cancer and other skin disorders like dryness, wrinkled or flaky skin, scales, rashes, and more, can all be brought on by UV radiation. Sunscreens help protect the skin against UV radiation.

Protect Your Feet Against UV Radiation

It is not uncommon to overlook your feet when exposed to the sun.
Here are some recommendations to avoid overexposure to UV radiation and keep your feet protected:

● Apply sunblock for UV protection and cover your body and feet. Doctors advise applying sunscreen that has at least an SPF of 30. There is no complete protection from UV rays, but if you use sunblock with an SPF of 50 and higher, you drastically reduce the chances of skin damage.

● The more exposed your skin is to the sun, the more the chances of overexposure to UV radiation. When heading out to the beach or swimming pool, do not keep your feet exposed unnecessarily.

● Avoid being out in the open at midday, as that is usually when the sun releases high levels of UV radiation. Early or the last few hours of the day make moving about more pleasant and help you avoid over-exposure to the sun.

If you experience any skin problems like rashes, redness, itchy skin, sunburn, etc., or would like advice on skin and foot protection during the summer, contact your foot doctor immediately. At Feet First Foot Care we are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care. Our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas, and his team will guide you about safety measures and examine your feet to detect any underlying or developing conditions and treat them promptly. For more information on the services we provide call us at (860)-632-5499 or visit our website.