Diabetics can suffer from dry skin, often caused by high or fluctuacting blood sugar levels

Not only do high levels cause your body to lose fluid, but diabetes can cause you to sweat less, which is one of your body’s ways of coping with dry skin. Drinking plenty of water can help you stay hydrated, try drinking chilled water if you don’t enjoy the taste of tap water. Cut down on tea and coffee as they have a dehydrating effect.

You can experience dry skin on your face, hands, elbows, feet or anywhere on your body. Using the best moisturisers can help keep your skin in good condition and reduce the risk of cracks and infections developing.

Simple diabetes skin care tips

Use a moisturiser on areas of dry skin
drink water – lots of it!
reduce your intake of tea and coffee
after a washing, dry yourself carefully, reaching every area, even between your toes!
wear underwear made from natural fibres close to your body
regularly do a visual check of your body for blemishes,lesions or rashes
Check your feet regularly for blisters or sore patches

If you’ve had diabetes for some time and you’re already experiencing some level of complications or neuropathy, the loss of sensation in the feet may increase the possibility that foot injuries go unnoticed. These can develop into ulcers or lesions that become infected, so it’s even more important to carry out routine checks.

If you’re at all worried about a skin problem or rash, do check with your doctor or diabetes nurse.

About the Author

Jen Carter runs the Diabetia website which offers diabetes info, tips and recipes.