Sunburned Feet

You remember to put sunscreen on vulnerable areas like your face, shoulders, and back, but sometimes forget the feet. Your feet are just as susceptible to sunburn as other parts of your body. At Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, with offices in Richardson, Garland, and Dallas, Texas, the podiatry team can help you ease the pain and damage of sunburned feet. Call the office or use this website to set up an appointment today. 

Why is it easy to get sunburned feet?

It’s easy to forget your feet when it comes to applying sun protection. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays causes sunburn damage like red, swollen, and painful skin. 

The feet are vulnerable to sun damage because they are often covered up in shoes and socks, so they don’t get regular outdoor exposure. When you wear sandals or bare your feet at the pool or the lake, your feet are targets for the sun’s rays. Even if you are good about applying sun protection, it’s easily washed off with sweat, friction, and water.

Why should I worry about sunburned feet?

Sunburns and exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun increase your risk of melanoma. Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer. Approximately 86% of melanomas are caused by the sun’s rays. 

How do I care for sunburned feet?

If you notice your feet are sunburned, the first thing you should do is get out of the sun or at least cover your feet. 

Treat sunburned skin using water no hotter than lukewarm; soak in a tub of cool water or apply a damp towel. 

Don’t use ice because the extreme cold can damage your skin. Apply creams and ointments with ingredients like aloe vera or menthol. An over-the-counter pain reliever can help ease discomfort. 

Hydrate sufficiently, avoid harsh soaps, and wear loose socks and shoes as your sunburn resolves. 

Your sunburn should subside within three to five days, but severe burns may take a few weeks to heal. 

When should I seek medical attention for sunburned feet?

Sunburned feet can usually be treated at home. But, if you have any of the following symptoms, seek medical care:

• Severe blistering
• Sunburn so severe that you can‘t walk or move
• Fever higher than 102 ℉
• Prolonged periods of chills
• Skin infection signs, like oozing pus or severe swelling
• Dizziness and confusion

Treatment for these severe symptoms may include an IV to treat dehydration, wound care to ease blisters, prescription creams, and antibiotics to relieve infection. 

Call Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP if you need help treating sunburned feet. Alternatively, use this website to book an appointment