Diabetes Education Program

Skin Care and Diabetes

Diabetes increases the risk of skin infections. Small cuts or breaks in the skin allow bacteria to enter and infection to begin. The best way to prevent bacterial or fungal infections is to pay attention to skin care.

o Keep skin clean and dry, paying particular attention to skin folds (under breasts and armpits, and in the groin area) where fungal infections may start

o Avoid very hot baths

o Prevent dry skin by using superfatted soaps. Oil-in-water skin creams are also helpful

o Use a mild shampoo and avoid heavily scented products

o Avoid feminine hygiene scented products

o Cuts and scrapes should be treated carefully. Minor cuts should be cleaned with soap and water and lightly dressed with cotton gauze. Avoid antiseptics, such as alcohol or iodine. Ask you pharmacist to recommend an appropriate antibiotic cream or ointment.

Call your health care professional if you get a skin infection, if you have sores that do not heal, or if you notice a reddish-yellow rash.