What should you know about sunburn feet treatment?

The tops of the feet are easily missed when sunscreen or shade is used, while sandals can leave exposed strips. Sunburn there may cause heat, redness, tenderness and swelling; friction from shoes can make discomfort worse. Blisters represent more injured skin and can make walking difficult. Peeling later is common, but pulling it away can expose fragile new skin.

Move indoors, cool the feet with clean water or a damp cloth, and pat dry. Apply a plain emollient to intact skin and choose loose, soft footwear or open protection that does not rub. Keep blisters intact, cover them with a clean non-stick dressing if needed, and change it gently. Avoid soaking damaged skin for long periods, harsh antiseptics, exfoliation and further sun. Elevating the feet can ease swelling.

Seek prompt care for severe pain, large or numerous blisters, inability to walk normally, numbness, rapidly increasing swelling, spreading redness, warmth with pus or fever. People with diabetes, poor circulation or reduced sensation should obtain advice early because foot wounds may need closer monitoring. Emergency help is needed for faintness, confusion, repeated vomiting or breathing difficulty after heat and sun exposure.

Ask how to dress a blister, which footwear is safest, whether your medicines affect healing, and what changes should trigger a review.