Diabetes can affect almost every part of the body. It frequently causes skin problems. In some cases, these conditions are specific to people with diabetes. For example, the skin of diabetic individuals tends to be thicker than that of nondiabetics. Other conditions, such as dry skin, are common in the general population but may be more severe for people with diabetes.

Many diabetic skin problems occur when glucose (blood sugar) levels are too high. High glucose (hyperglycemia) causes fluid loss because the body turns water into urine in an attempt to rid the body of the excess glucose.

People with diabetes who develop skin conditions are advised to seek medical treatment. This is particularly true if the condition causes itchiness and chronic scratching, which can lead to infection and cause complications.

People with diabetes can take precautions to ward off skin problems. Controlling glucose levels is the primary means of preventing skin from drying or becoming infected with bacteria. Patients can also take other steps, such as using a humidifier to keep air moist in the winter or keeping skin clean and moisturized.

In addition, skin ointments can help people with diabetes treat some skin conditions. These ointments include emollients, urea-based products, and corticosteroid and antimicrobial creams. Different ointments are appropriate for different conditions. For example, moisturizers can prevent dry skin, which occurs when high glucose levels or the nerve disease diabetic neuropathy cause the body to lose fluids. Antibiotic creams may treat bacterial infections, and antifungals help fight nail fungus and yeast infections.