Diabetes and your skin: What you should know
You’ve probably noticed that as you age, or during the cooler months, skin can naturally become drier. But did you know that having diabetes actually accelerates the process of drying skin? This is due to the damage diabetes causes the nerves and small blood vessels in our skin.
Why can dry skin be a problem with diabetes?
Dry, cracked skin means our skin barrier is broken. When we remember that our skin barrier is responsible for helping protect the body from germs and dirt, the problem is clear: Having a broken skin barrier makes it easier for infection to enter the body.
I have diabetes. What skin symptoms should I look for?
Approximately 30% of people with diabetes will experience an associated skin condition.1 It’s important to know what is normal for your skin, so you can easily notice what is different. Talk to your Pharmacist or GP if you notice skin which is:
- Discoloured
- Scaly
- Broken
- Itchy
- Thickened
- Waxy
- Painful
- Or stiff-feeling
Talk to them about any new lesions, boils, spots or blisters.
Do you have diabetes?
Take these 8 tips to help protect your skin
- Keep skin clean and dry – to reduce the likelihood of fungal infections
- Moisturise every day – this protects the skin barrier and helps avoid dry, cracked skin
- Have short, warm showers – long exposure to hot water can strip our skin's natural oils and contribute to dryness
- Use a ph balanced and fragrance-free options – to be as gentle on the skin as possible
- Wear gloves when cleaning – to protect from products
- Check for cuts and sores – treat quickly and see your GP for larger cuts, burns or infections
- Protect and check over the skin on your whole body – including trunk, limbs, hands and especially the feet
- Look out for any changes that are new to you – and show them to your GP or credentialled diabetes educator
