Don’t Forget Your Feet! Why Sunscreen Should Be Part of Your Daily Foot Care Routine

When you think about applying sunscreen, what comes to mind? Your face, shoulders, arms, and maybe even the back of your neck.

But what about your feet?

The tops of your feet are one of the most commonly forgotten areas when applying sunscreen, yet they’re often exposed for hours while wearing sandals, flip-flops, or going barefoot at the beach or pool. Just like the rest of your skin, the skin on your feet can be damaged by ultraviolet (UV) rays, increasing your risk of premature aging and skin cancer.

At The Foot Nurse, we encourage our clients to make sunscreen a regular part of their daily foot care routine—especially during the summer months.

Your Feet Are More Vulnerable Than You Think

During Minnesota summers, many of us spend more time outdoors enjoying walks, gardening, golfing, boating, pickleball, or relaxing by the lake. While you’re protecting your face and shoulders, your feet are often left uncovered.

Even a few sunburns over time can contribute to skin damage.

The tops of the feet receive direct sunlight when wearing open-toed shoes, making them vulnerable to:

• Sunburn

• Premature skin aging

• Age spots

• Basal cell carcinoma

• Squamous cell carcinoma

• Certain types of melanoma related to UV exposure

Skin Cancer Can Develop on the Feet

Skin cancer isn’t limited to areas like the face or back.

Dermatologists routinely diagnose skin cancers on the feet, ankles, toes, and around the toenails. Unfortunately, these cancers are often detected later because people simply don’t examine their feet as closely as the rest of their body. (American Academy of Dermatology)

Melanoma: The Most Serious Form of Skin Cancer

Melanoma accounts for only about 1% of all skin cancers, but it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths. In 2026, an estimated 112,000 Americans will be diagnosed with invasive melanoma, and more than 8,500 people are expected to die from the disease. Fortunately, when melanoma is found before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is approximately 99%. (American Cancer Society)

An Important Note About Melanoma on the Feet

Not every melanoma found on the foot is caused by sun exposure.

A rare subtype called acral melanoma develops on the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, or beneath the nails. It accounts for only about 1–3% of all melanoma diagnoses in the United States and is not thought to be caused by UV exposure. (Melanoma Research Foundation)

That’s why sunscreen is only one part of protecting your feet.

It’s equally important to look at your feet regularly and notify your healthcare provider if you notice:

• A new or changing mole

• A dark streak beneath a toenail

• A spot that changes in color, size, or shape

• A sore that doesn’t heal

• Bleeding or persistent crusting

• An area that continues to grow or becomes painful

Early detection saves lives.

How to Protect Your Feet

Protecting your feet is easy and only takes a few extra seconds.

✔ Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it to:

• The tops of your feet

• Your toes

• Around your ankles

• Any exposed skin while wearing sandals

Don’t forget to reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors, and after swimming or excessive sweating. (American Academy of Dermatology)

✔ Wear Protective Footwear

When possible, wear supportive shoes that cover your feet during prolonged outdoor activities. Water shoes can also help protect your feet from both sun exposure and injuries at the beach or lake.

✔ Perform Monthly Skin Checks

Take a few moments each month to examine your feet—including the tops, soles, heels, between the toes, and around your toenails. If you have difficulty seeing the bottoms of your feet, use a hand mirror or ask a loved one to help.

How The Foot Nurse Can Help

Every routine visit with The Foot Nurse includes more than nail care.

Our nurses assess the overall health of your feet, including your skin, nails, circulation, and any concerning changes we observe. While we do not diagnose skin cancer, we can identify suspicious findings and recommend that you follow up promptly with your primary care provider or a dermatologist for further evaluation.

Sometimes, noticing a small change early can make all the difference.

Healthy Feet Start with Healthy Habits

This summer, make sunscreen part of your foot care routine.

A few seconds spent applying sunscreen to your feet can help protect your skin for years to come. Pair that with regular self-checks and routine foot care visits, and you’ll be taking important steps toward keeping your feet healthy, comfortable, and ready for all of life’s adventures.

Have questions about your foot health? Contact The Foot Nurse to schedule your next appointment. We’re here to help you put your best foot forward.