Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Prevention Tips to Protect Your Feet

Why Feet Are Vulnerable

The feet are exposed to sun just like any other part of the body—especially during warm-weather months. Whether you're walking barefoot at the beach, wearing open-toed sandals, or lounging poolside, your feet are absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Unlike the face or arms, people rarely examine their feet for skin abnormalities, which means cancerous lesions may go unnoticed until they’ve progressed. Common areas for concern include the tops of the feet, between the toes, and even under the toenails.

Prevention Tips to Protect Your Feet

Apply Sunscreen—Everywhere

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and don’t forget to cover the tops of your feet, ankles, and between the toes. Reapply every two hours when outdoors, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

Wear Protective Footwear

When possible, wear water shoes or closed-toe sandals to limit sun exposure. These also protect against other outdoor hazards like cuts and infections.

Check Your Feet Regularly

Inspect your feet monthly for unusual spots, changes in moles, new growths, or discoloration under the nails. If you notice anything suspicious, schedule a visit with your podiatrist immediately.

Schedule Annual Skin Checks

A yearly full-body skin check with a dermatologist or your podiatrist can help detect skin cancers early. Diagnostic labs can offer dermatopathology services that assist physicians in identifying skin lesions and guiding treatment decisions.

Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds increase your risk for all forms of skin cancer, including on the feet. Natural or artificial, UV exposure is harmful.

When to Seek Professional Help

It is important to seek professional help from a medical professional if you notice any abnormalities on your skin. Watch for the following signs.

Lesions that don’t heal
Dark lines or streaks under the toenails
Scaly patches or growths that itch or bleed
Moles or spots that change in size, shape, or color

If you see any of these signs, don’t wait. Early detection could save your life.

Put an End to Problematic Nail and Skin Issues

At Central Kansas Podiatry Associates, we understand how irritating it is to deal with itchy feet, warts, calluses, athlete's foot, dermatitis, and toenail fungus. Fortunately, we offer patients in Wichita, Kansas and the surrounding areas many effective treatment options to give you lasting relief from nail and skin issues. Call (316) 269-3338 or use our convenient online form to schedule your appointment with our experienced podiatrist Dr. Weaver today.