There are several things you can do to prevent skin problems if you have diabetes:
• Keep your diabetes well managed. People with high glucose levels tend to have dry skin and less ability to fend off harmful bacteria. Both conditions increase the risk of infection.
• Keep skin clean and dry. Use talcum powder in areas where skin touches skin, such as armpits and groin.
• Avoid very hot baths and showers. If your skin is dry, don’t use bubble baths. Moisturizing soaps may help. Afterward, use a standard skin lotion, but don’t put lotions between toes. The extra moisture there can encourage fungus to grow.
• Prevent dry skin. Scratching dry or itchy skin can open it up and allow infection to set in. Moisturize your skin to prevent chapping, especially in cold or windy weather.
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, December 2015
—Source: American Diabetes Association
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