Does your skin care routine read like a shampoo bottle—wash, rinse, repeat? Perhaps if you have an extra 5 minutes you might slather on some moisturizer too. Unfortunately, though, good skin care consists of a whole lot more—especially if you have diabetes. Learn how to care for your skin from the experts at Absolute Foot Care Specialists.
The Effects of Diabetes
Skin is not immune to the effects of diabetes. In fact, as many as one third of people with diabetes will experience a skin disorder caused or affected by diabetes at some point in their lifetime. That’s why diabetic skin care is so important. Diabetes causes high blood sugar levels and loss of bodily fluids that cause the skin to become dehydrated. At the same time, insulin treatments act as growth hormones that may result in skin tags, rubeosis (red face), rosacea, and yellow skin.
If your nerves have been damaged due to diabetes, you may not be able to detect when your skin requires extra care. Your legs and feet may not relay the message that they are dry and in need of moisturizer. In addition, dry skin may become red and sore, even crack and peel. Infection can easily make its way into these breaks in the skin and turn even the smallest of issues into hazardous setbacks.
Protect Your Skin
Luckily, most skin conditions can be prevented or easily treated if detected early on. Here is a list of ways to fend off dry skin and prevent infection:
Always keep your skin dry and clean. In areas where the skin touches, such as your armpits and groin, apply talcum powder.
Keep baths and showers at a lukewarm temperature. Use moisturizing soap and apply lotion directly after patting yourself dry. Be sure not to put lotion between the toes.
Refrain from scratching your dry skin. Scratching may result in infection.
No matter how small, treat cuts immediately. Wash them with soap and water followed by an application of antibiotic cream or ointment. Steer clear of Mercurochrome antiseptics, alcohol, and iodine. Minor cuts should be covered with sterile gauze, while major cuts and burns should be examined by your doctor.
Use mild shampoos. Do not use feminine hygiene sprays.
Protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays by applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
During cold spurts, keep your home more humid and bathe less to preserve natural oils.
Your shoes should be broad and flat. Always check them for foreign objects, such as pebbles, before placing them on your feet.
Examine your feet daily. If you encounter something questionable, give our office a call, we'll get you in for an appointment as soon as we possible.
Life with diabetes doesn't have to be a constant struggle. Be proactive and care for your skin before signs of illness or infection set in. With a little T.L.C. your skin will be in tip-top shape. If, however, you notice a strange spot or dry patch that isn't improving, give the Absolute Foot Care Specialists here in Las Vegas a call. Our office can be reached at (702) 839-2010. Remember diabetic skin care is important.