Care of Your Skin When You Have Diabetes
If high blood sugar levels have damaged nerves that go to
your skin, you may sweat less, and your skin may become dry and cracked.
Damaged skin becomes infected more easily when you have
diabetes.
To prevent skin problems and
allow for early treatment of any problems that develop, each day:
- Inspect your skin, especially on your feet,
between your toes, and around your fingernails and toenails. Watch for redness,
cuts, scrapes, calluses, or blisters.
- Keep your skin folds—such as
in your groin or under your breasts—dry. Moist areas increase the risk of
infection.
- Dry the area between your toes well after
bathing.
- Use a bath soap that has a moisturizer added. Use soap
only as needed (on your feet, underarms, and groin). Avoid using deodorant
soaps and antibacterial soaps, which may dry your skin.
- If your
skin is dry, do not use bubble baths. Use a bath oil instead.
To prevent dryness and injury:
- Use a home humidifier during cold weather and in
dry climates.
- Use a moisturizer after you bathe.
- Wear
gloves when you garden, do yard work, use household chemicals, or do
dishes.
- Always test the temperature of the water before you take a
bath or shower, especially if you have
peripheral neuropathy. Use your elbow or upper arm to
check the temperature, or have a family member do it.
See your doctor or a dermatologist if you have a
skin problem that does not go away.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Jennifer Hone, MD - Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism |
| Last Revised | July 1, 2011 |