Protecting Your Feet: Why is Sunscreen Important?
Summers in Australia can get hot, to say the least. Excessive sun exposure increases the risk of developing skin cancer, which is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in Australia. But even short periods of exposure are not without risk. Skin damage can occur after just 15 minutes of exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Sunburns are the result of UVB rays, while signs of premature ageing are partially attributed to UVA rays.
Skin cancer affects approximately two out of three Australians under the age of 70. Annually, about 980,000 new cases of Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma are treated in Australia alone. The risk of developing skin cancer increases with age, with the majority of diagnoses being made in individuals older than 40. Although younger individuals can also develop skin cancer. With this in mind, it is clear how important it is to take steps to protect your
Protecting Your Feet: Sunscreen Basics That You Need to Know
Most of us already know how critical it is to protect our skin from the sun, especially in the sweltering summer sun. But did you know that you should include your feet? Our feet are also vulnerable to sunburn and various types of skin cancer.
To prevent skin damage and sunburn, and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, you should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation to your entire body, all the way down to your feet. Both chemical and mineral sunscreens offer effective protection from the sun’s harmful rays if applied correctly. But there’s a little more to it than simply choosing either chemical-based or mineral-based sunscreen. It is best to apply your sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside, even if you are using a sunscreen that provides immediate protection, as sweat can lower the effectiveness of your sunscreen.
As a general rule, pick a sunscreen of at least SPF30, anything less doesn’t cut it. Be generous with the amount of sunscreen that you apply. It is best to apply sunscreen before putting on swimwear, as you are less likely to miss any part of your body. Don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen according to the instructions on the bottle. Typically, you should reapply your sunscreen every two hours or so. In addition to your feet, you should also apply sunscreen to other harder to reach and frequently overlooked spots such as the eyelids, hairline, scalp, ears, knees, hands, and lips.
Protecting Your Feet: Other Important Tips
In addition to applying sunscreen to the top and bottom of your feet, there are a few other things that you can do to protect your feet. Keep an eye on the appearance of your feet. Pay attention to any moles or freckles on your feet. By regularly performing self-checks on your feet, you are more likely to notice anything abnormal. If you spot changes in the shape, size, or colour of moles or freckles on your feet, it is best to schedule an examination with your Doctor.
Protecting Your Feet With a Foot Soak
What better way to end a long summer’s day in the sun by winding down with a foot treatment from Baby Foot®? Who said self-care needed to be reserved for special occasions or as a pick-me-up after a bad day? Treat yourself, your feet deserve it. The Baby Foot® Peel-Enhancing Foot Soak with satisfying scents of Yuzu Citrus or Hinoki Cypress Wood will help you keep your feet in tip-top shape all summer. The Baby Foot® Peel-Enhancing Foot Soak is bursting with natural goodness, such as papaya enzymes, to make your feet baby soft and ready to slip into your favourite summer sandals.
