July is UV Safety Awareness Month, and rightfully so! Summer is finally here, which means the outdoors is beckoning, and we are all taking advantage of what nature has to offer. It is especially important this time of the year to lather up on SPF. But did you know your feet are just as vulnerable to harmful UV rays as the rest of your body? At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we want our patients informed so they can make the best decisions regarding their health. Below you will find facts on UV safety and tips on protecting your feet all summer long! 

The Danger of UV Rays

UV rays, also known as ultraviolet radiation, come mainly from the sun. In most places, the UV rays are the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. These rays can cause premature aging of the skin causing the skin to wrinkle and have a leathery appearance. Overexposure to UV rays can cause an array of serious health issues, such as skin cancer, melanoma, immune suppression, and heat exhaustion. For more information, check out the EPA’s website for more potential health effects of UV radiation. 

How To Reduce UV Damage to Your Skin

1. Use Sunscreen. Wearing sunscreen is important year-round. Even in the winter, harmful UV rays can cause health effects. Most Dermatologists recommend using at least 30 SPF sunscreen, which blocks about 97% of harmful UV Rays.
2. Avoid Peak Sun-Times. Harmful UV Rays are the least intense in the morning and early evening. If you are out at peak sun times, try to find activities you can do in the shade.
3. Wear The Right Footwear. Sandals and flip-flops are easy to slip on, but they leave your feet exposed to the elements. Crocs are a useful shoe that protects while also allowing your feet to breathe.
4. Cover Your Skin. One way to add further protection to your skin is to cover your skin. Choose breathable fabrics that keep you cool. Alternatively, use a beach umbrella, a pop-up tent, or the help of a big tree for extra shade protection.
5. Drink Plenty of Water. Drinking plenty of water during the day is important! Staying hydrated, especially in the summer sun will help to replenish your body of any lost water due to sweating. The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine determined that an adequate daily fluid intake is: About 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men. About 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women.

In case of a foot emergency, call your podiatrist. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas is specially trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. To schedule an appointment at our Middlesex County office call (860)-632-5499 or visit our website for more information.