Know Your Risk for UV Damage

At Pasco Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know our Nature Coast patients have to deal with the sun all year. Still, July is UV Safety Awareness Month and a good time for a few reminders about protecting the skin on your feet and the rest of your body from the harmful effects of UV rays. UV rays come in two forms: UV-A and UV-B, and together they can cause surface damage to your skin and penetrate deeper layers. Although anyone who spends significant time in the sun can potentially suffer harm from UV radiation, some people have an increased risk, including those who:

  • Have had a bad sunburn in the past

  • Are over the age of 50

  • Have light-color skin, hair, and eyes

  • Take certain types of oral and topical medications, such as benzoyl peroxide products, antibiotics, and birth control pills.

  • Have a family member that’s had skin cancer

In addition to sunburn and skin cancer, UV radiation can cause eye damage, suppress your immune system and cause premature skin aging.

Protecting Yourself from UV Rays

Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce your risk of harm from UV radiation.

  • Use a sunscreen that protects against both UV-A and UV-B radiation. It is described on labels as “broad-spectrum.” The FDA currently recommends an SPF of 15 or higher.

  • Apply sunscreen as part of your daily routine. UV rays are present on cloudy days as well as sunny. They can also penetrate car and home windows.

  • Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen—the recommended schedule every two hours. Constantly reapply after swimming or if you’ve been sweating profusely.

  • Consider using clothing with SPF in the fabric.

  • Seek out shady spots during the hours of the day when the sun is most intense: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

  • Inspect the skin on your feet (and the rest of your body) regularly. If you have any new spots or freckles, show up or notice existing moles or lesions appear to be getting bigger or changing in color or appearance, contact our Hudson office as soon as possible for an appointment at 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799. Our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, will examine your feet and determine if a lesion needs further evaluation.

Summer Foot Care, Skin Cancer, UV DamagePasco-Hernando Foot & AnkleUV rays, sunburns, sun protection, sunscreen, UV radiation, eye damage, premature skin aging, spf, skin cancer risk, skin cancer prevention, foot care