Can you put sunscreen on your feet?
Don't Forget Your Feet: Skin Cancer Awareness from the toes up!
This months blog follows on from our popular blog, about skin cancer on the foot, written by Dr Bristow, which can be found here.
On a recent trip overseas, despite all the sun protection advice we receive, it sadly came as no surprise to see lots of burnt holiday makers. And burnt feet!
We all surely know the importance of sun protection for our face and arms, but what about our feet? Often neglected, the skin on our feet is just as susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer.
There are around 200,000 cases of melanoma reported worldwide annually. It is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, accounting for around 4% of all new cancer cases and more cancer deaths than all other skin cancers combined.
Whilst the benefits of getting outdoors in the fresh air are numerous, we must still consider sun protection and especially important... avoid burning.
Protecting Your Feet from Skin Cancer
Even though your feet don't get constant sun exposure, it's still important to be proactive:
Do regular foot checks: It is important to highlight that melanoma situated on the foot has a poorer prognosis than melanoma elsewhere. This is thought to be due to a combination of factors - including misdiagnosis as something less serious, and simply not being noticed until it is more advanced. Examining your feet (and indeed all areas of your skin) means any new lesions, and potential skin cancers, will be detected sooner, allowing you to get treatment earlier. And therefore have a better outcome! Look for any new or changing moles, growths, lumps/bumps or sores. Don't forget to check your toes, toenails, and the soles of your feet. Ask a friend or family member to check for you if you struggle to see or reach your feet.
Wear sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to the tops of your feet if you'll be wearing sandals or open-toed shoes. Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go into the sun and reapply sunscreen frequently - every two hours and after going in water.
Wear protective footwear: Shoes and socks can help shield your feet from harmful UV rays.
Seek shade during the hottest times of the day when the UV is at its strongest
See your podiatrist or doctor for any concerns: If you notice any changes in your feet, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Many GPs and Podiatrists, including your podiatrists at Michelle Reynolds Podiatry, are now trained in the use of dermatoscopes. These are specialised hand held devices, a little like magnifying lenses, which allow practitioners to closely examine skin lesions.
If you are interested in learning more about skin cancers you can find information on the Skcin website...
The British Skin Foundation site...
And the Cancer Research site...
And please do show your GP, Podiatrist or other health professional if you have any lesions that make you suspicious!
Call 0161 427 4937 or email info@mrpodiatrist.co.uk if you would like to schedule a podiatry appointment