If you have Diabetes, you probably deal with skin issues. Higher than normal glucose levels can cause the skin to dry out and small cuts to become big problems. If you’re looking to protect your skin, here are some tips:
1. Control your diabetes
One of the best things you can do for your skin is to control your diabetes. If you’re not monitoring your glucose levels, start now. In addition, diabetics need to eat right and exercise. While that might sound like a large to-do list, your skin will respond when you take care of yourself.
2. Cover up
If you’re working outside, cover your body. By wearing pants and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, you reduce the risk of getting scratched or hurt. A scratch or a wound for a diabetic can be problematic.
For people with diabetic nerve damage, known as neuropathy, you can get a scratch and not even feel it.
As a safety measure, be sure to give your body a once-over before you get into the shower to look for any problem areas. If you find any, treat them immediately.
3. See your doctor for wounds that aren’t healing
If a wound isn’t healing, see your doctor immediately. The worst thing you can do is neglect it or assume the cut will get better on its own.
4. Fight dry skin
To keep your skin moist, you need to take action. First, stay dry. Your feet, armpits, and groin can easily get wet from sweat, but if you keep them as dry as possible you’re less likely to have problems.
You should take lukewarm baths, use mild soaps, moisturize your skin after every bath, and pat your body dry rather than rub.
Diabetes is a manageable condition, but it does come with some side effects. Skin irritations, wounds, and cracked skin are all troublesome, but can also be managed if you take an active approach.
