Dry skin is a common condition for those with diabetes. It can be an uncomfortable and irritating experience, as well as cause other health issues. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to maintain healthy skin while managing your diabetes. Hydration, using the right moisturizers and avoiding ingredients that could exacerbate your symptoms are all key components in caring for dry diabetic skin. By following these steps, you can keep your skin healthy and comfortable.
Hydration is the first step to managing dry diabetic skin. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to replenish lost moisture in your system, while also helping to flush out toxins that can worsen symptoms. Additionally, staying away from caffeinated drinks like coffee and soda can be beneficial. Not only do these drinks contain diuretics, which may further dehydrate your skin, but caffeine also narrows blood vessels, reducing the circulation of oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells.
Why do diabetics skin get so dry?
Diabetes can cause dry skin due to the decreased production of oil and sweat by the skin's glands. When the body is unable to produce enough oil, the skin becomes dehydrated. Additionally, people with diabetes often have higher levels of glucose in their blood which can affect how much moisture is pulled away from the cells in their body, leading to dry skin.
Poor circulation, a common symptom of diabetes, can also be a contributing factor as it reduces the amount of nutrients and oxygen that reach the skin's cells, causing them to become dry and irritated.
Medications used to treat diabetes may have side effects that include skin dryness. People with diabetes should take extra care to keep their skin moisturized by using lotions or cream regularly. Additionally, they should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and limit their exposure to harsh soaps or cleansers. Eating a balanced diet that includes foods rich in fatty acids can also help keep the skin moisturized.
If dry skin persists, you should speak with a doctor who may be able to recommend additional treatments such as topical ointments. Hypoallergenic products may also be beneficial for those with sensitive skin. In some cases, the use of a humidifier can help increase the moisture in the air to help relieve dryness. Taking these steps can minimize dry skin and help keep diabetes related complications at bay.
Skin care tips that dermatologists recommend
Use sunscreen - Sun protection is key for healthy skin, so dermatologists recommend that you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day.
Cleanse your face twice daily - Cleansing your face twice daily helps remove dirt, oil and other impurities that can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser that is suitable for your skin type.
Moisturize - Keeping your skin hydrated is important for healthy looking skin. Choose a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type, and apply it every day after cleansing.
Exfoliate - Regularly exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells that can accumulate on the surface of your skin and clog your pores, leading to breakouts. Use a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant two to three times per week.
Protect your skin from the sun - Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging, so protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Wear protective clothing and sunglasses when outside for extended periods of time.
Best ingredients that lotions for diabetic dry skin have
Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a type of silicone-based polymer frequently used in skin care products. It is non-greasy and works by forming a barrier on the surface of the skin to lock in moisture, prevent water loss, and protect your skin from irritants. This makes it an ideal ingredient for those with dry skin as it helps keep skin hydrated and moisturized. It also helps reduce itching, redness, and flakiness associated with dry skin.
Allantoin
Allantoin is a compound especially beneficial for those with dry skin such as diabetics. It helps to increase hydration levels in the skin by helping it retain moisture, acting as an emollient to soften and soothe the skin. Allantoin also has anti-inflammatory properties which make it useful for soothing and relieving skin irritation. Additionally, it has antibacterial properties which help keep the skin free from infection and promote healing. Allantoin can also improve the appearance of scars or stretch marks by promoting cellular regeneration in the affected areas.
Ceramide
Ceramide is an important component of the skin's outermost layer, or stratum corneum. It helps prevent water loss from the skin, which is essential for maintaining moisture levels and keeping skin hydrated. By replenishing ceramides in lotion for dry skin, you can help restore your skin's natural barrier and improve its ability to hold in moisture. Ceramide lotions contain natural oils, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, that can help moisturize the skin and prevent further dryness. Additionally, ceramides work together with fatty acids and cholesterol to form a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, helping to keep it healthy and hydrated.
Urea
Urea is an effective moisturizer and humectant, meaning it can help to draw moisture into the skin and reduce dryness. It also increases the water content of the outer layer of skin, making it softer and smoother. Additionally, urea helps to break down dead skin cells on the surface of the skin and stimulates cell regeneration.
Arnica
Arnica has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. It is thought that this is because its active compounds, including helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, have anti-inflammatory properties. These substances are believed to help reduce redness and swelling associated with dry skin, as well as general itchiness and discomfort. Arnica lotion is often used to help with symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and other forms of dermatitis. It may also be beneficial for reducing the effects of sunburn, insect bites, and minor cuts.
How do you treat diabetic dry skin?
Treating diabetic dry skin starts with managing blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can cause the body to produce excessive amounts of insulin, leading to dehydration and dry skin. Maintaining a balanced diet full of healthy carbohydrates and proteins is the first step in mitigating this issue.
In addition to a balanced diet, it's important to keep skin hydrated. Moisturizing the skin regularly can help to prevent dryness and itching, as well as protect from further damage. Using unscented moisturizers with ingredients like lanolin, petrolatum, mineral oil, or dimethicone are good for treating diabetic dry skin. Avoiding long showers and baths is also recommended, as hot water can strip skin of its natural oils and cause further dryness.
How does Skin Tac wipes help?
Skin Tac wipes help diabetics in two ways. First, they create a barrier between the skin and adhesive devices such as insulin pumps, glucose sensors, and other medical equipment that require adhesion to the skin. The wipes help keep the skin clean and dry while preventing irritation from prolonged contact with the adhesive device. Second, Skin Tac wipes help keep the skin healthy. The preservative-free formula helps reduce the risk of infection and encourages faster healing of minor irritations by moisturizing, protecting, and restoring damaged skin. Additionally, Skin Tac wipes are designed to be gentle on sensitive skin, making them ideal for diabetics who may have more delicate skin than non-diabetics. Ultimately, Skin Tac wipes help diabetics manage their condition safely and comfortably.
By providing a barrier between adhesive devices and the skin, as well as helping to protect and restore damaged skin, Skin Tac wipes can be an invaluable tool for diabetics looking to stay comfortable while managing their condition.
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