Handle with care

Be nice to your hands and feet
this summer

by: Michele Sponagle

Can you blame us? After months of being cooped up inside all winter and muddling through the roller coaster temperatures of spring, Canadians adore the balmy, lazy hazy days of summer. As soon as the thermometer dictates we slip into shorts and tanks to start our love-in with warm weather. But there’s a caveat. When it comes to your hands and feet, you’ll need to give them plenty of TLC, all that fun in the sun poses an additional hazard to their health.

Sun savvy.
While most of your body is used to some sun exposure during the year, the same cannot be said for the feet. They’re prone to sunburn, be sure to apply sunscreen (minimum SPF 15). “I’ve seen some very bad cases of too much sun exposure on the tops of feet,” says Dr. Turanovic. “It can be very painful.”

No sweat.
Walking or exercising in the heat can make your feet perspire. It’s a natural, cooling process, but the sweaty climate in your shoes isn’t comfortable. Dr. Turanovic suggests wearing 100% cotton socks so that moisture will be wicked away from the skin. You can also help keep them drier by using an over-the-counter product like Drysol. Even a swipe of your regular anti-perspirant works safely.

Water wise.
Bacteria and fungus thrive on moisture. That’s why it’s important to protect your feet at the beach or by the pool. Buy a pair of flip-flops or special water shoes to walk around in. You can catch athlete’s foot (a type of fungal infection) in public places so avoid direct contact with heavy traffic surfaces like change rooms. If you stroll along the beach or take a dip in a lake, wear something on your feet to guard against cuts from sharp objects. This is especially important for diabetics who are vulnerable to complications from cuts and injuries.

Sandal smarts.
Show your toes to the world in a great pair of sandals, but choose wisely. The same rules apply to summer footwear. You need good arch support, proper fit and good cushioning. Fortunately there’s been a boom in the number of models to select from. Today’s sandals have come a long way in terms of being kind to feet. Some offer removable insoles that can be swapped for orthotics, even strap placement provides support and comfort.

Buff ‘n scruff.
More exposure also means your feet are prone to drying out. For tip-top shape apply moisturizer daily before slipping on shoes – even a dab of petroleum jelly around the heels will do. Treat rough, dry skin to a thorough scrub with an exfoliating product. Buff rough spots with a pumice stone. For seriously cracked heels consult a podiatrist. Don’t use a callous shaver. It can do more harm than good. Of course, a visit to your favourite spa for a pedicure will make feet happy and healthy.

Over exposed.
Estheticians say they can tell the age of a woman, not by her face, but by her hands. Hands can appear dry, wrinkly and may have dark, age spots on them – a direct result of sun exposure. Don’t let them give away your secret. Apply sunscreen daily, particularly in the summer.

Blistering blunders.
Tempting as it may be, don’t pop a blister. They’re prone to infection. Wash your hands with soap and water and leave that trouble spot alone. Protect the area by covering it with a loose bandage. If the blister has broken, disinfect it and apply a topical antibiotic ointment. To prevent blisters while golfing or playing tennis, pre-bandage the exposed area. A dab of petroleum jelly can help too.

Smooth touch.
Applying a heavy-duty moisturizer to hands may not be practical during the day. It could leave them greasy. Take advantage of bed time hours to slather on your favourite product. Pay attention to cuticles by massaging in cream over your fingernails. Exfoliate dead, dry skin cells using a scrub or a product that contains alpha-hydroxy acids. 

H&L