Your Feet Need Sunscreen Too!

It is finally summer and it is hot outside. People will have a nice golden tan and some people will burn and blister. If you are an avid wearer of flip-flops or sandals, you must remember to put sunscreen on your feet.

Why are the feet so commonly forgotten? It is important to remember that your feet and legs are made of the same skin as your face, shoulders and arms.  Burns can occur on the feet and are not just reserved for those crazy people who walk on hot coals.

Constant exposure to ultraviolet radiation will cause mutations of the skin. Exposure to UV-A and UV-B along with certain genetic factors could lead to skin cancer if not careful.

You must wear sunscreen that protects from both UV-A and UV-B rays.

UV-A rays are associated with aging and UV-B rays are associated with burning. However, UV-A is the one associated with long term damage.

There are 2  compounds sunscreen available that will protect against both UV-A rays and UV-B rays.

1. Mexoryl SX by L’Oreal

2. Helioplex by Neutrogena

The products that you can buy that have these compounds are listed below:

1. Anthelios SX Daily Moisturizer by LaRoche-Posay  (has Mexoryl SX)

2. Neutrogena Ultimate Sport Sunblock Spray,  SPF 100 by Neutrogena (has Helioplex)

It is recommended to apply the sunscreen 15-30 minutes prior to sun exposure.

Be safe and sunburn free!