Individuals with diabetes tend to have dry skin, especially those who have poorly controlled blood glucose. Skin care is crucial for diabetics as they experience slower healing, and damaged skin can lead to infections. There are also other skin problems that specifically affect diabetics such as:
- Diabetic dermopathy – a harmless condition but round and raised spots can usually be seen on the shins.
- Bullosis diabeticorum – is characterized by small to large blister-like nodules.
- Vitiligo – more common in type 1 diabetics, the skin becomes less pigmented, leaving patches of discolored skin.
- Eruptive xanthomatosis – Firm yellow bumps appear on the skin, and just like the name suggests, it erupts and resolves gradually with the control of blood sugar.
Several other skin conditions can occur in diabetics; hence, a good regime of skin care is recommended. Here are 12 tips to stand by:
- Keep your blood glucose controlled – most skin issues occur in uncontrolled diabetes.
- Avoid hot showers or baths – as this can dry your skin.
- Use a mild soap – a good example is one that is made from shea butter.
- Pat dry – instead of vigorously toweling yourself. This reduces the damage to the skin.
- Moisturize – everywhere!
- Remember – to use lip balm to avert chapped lips.
- Inspect – your body for cuts, sores, or blisters.
- Treat – any injuries you may have religiously to prevent it from getting worse.
- Examine – your feet using a mirror to look at your soles. Have your doctor check it at least twice a year.
- Wear – appropriate footwear and loose clothes that allow your skin to breathe.
- Drink – plenty of water to keep hydrated. Try to avoid caffeine.
- Diet – eat foods rich in omega-3 and other nutrients that nourish your skin.
If in doubt, it is always best to seek advice from your primary care physician or healthcare team.
[expand title=”References“]
Diabetes: A skin-care how to. WebMD. Accessed 5/3/2017.
Skin problems in diabetes. WebMD. Accessed 5/3/2017.
Diabetes and skin care. DiabetesCoUK. Accessed 5/3/2017.
Good skin care and diabetes. Joslin Diabetes Center. Accessed 5/3/2017.
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