Good Skin Care and Diabetes and why diabetes is associated with poor skin health.
People with diabetes are prone to dry skin, particularly when blood glucose levels are high. Researchers believe that the body may actually “rob” the skin of moisture to reduce glucose levels. This causes skin to become dry which can crack and itch, leading to infections.The higher blood glucose will support bacterial growth so making infection more difficult to control. In fact, approximately 70% of surgical amputations done in Canada are performed on diabetes patients who have developed infections through cracks or breaks in extremely dry skin.

Increased urination in diabetics reduces moisture available to the skin and increased thickness of skin cells.Intact normal skin is the best barrier to infection, a thickened skin common to diabetics makes skin more susceptible to infection. A useful analogy might be to compare the water restraining ability of clay with pebbles. Diabetes also results in reduced blood circulation to the skin (microangiopathy) which means infected skin will take longer to heal.
Keeping your skin moisturized when you have diabetes is one of the easiest ways to prevent skin problems. Gloves In A Bottle Shielding Lotion will help achieve this.

Here are some other ways you can prevent skin problems with diabetes:
After you wash with a mild soap, rinse and dry thoroughly in every nook and cranny of your body. Use a moisturizer, but not between your toes.
Avoid very hot baths and showers, which can dry your skin and avoid soaking your feet for too long.
Inspect your body for red spots, blisters and sores that could lead to infection.
Look for any bumps or changes in the appearance of your feet and get your doctor look at your feet at least twice a year during your physical.
Treat cuts right away. Wash minor cuts with soap and water.
Keep your blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible.
Control blood pressure and cholesterol by taking prescribed medications, which will improve circulation and keep your skin healthy.
Drink plenty of fluids, like water and caffeine-free, sugar-free drinks, to keep your skin hydrated.
Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which nourish the skin. This includes fish like salmon, sardines, albacore tuna and mackerel, as well as tofu and other forms of soybeans, walnuts, flaxseed and their oils.
Try to avoid foods high in sugar and starch which can raise blood glucose levels.

If you notice any skin problems, always seek advice from your GP