Diabetes affects every part of your body, including your skin. Skin changes in diabetes are some of the most common health problems. It is important to recognize that diabetic patients may suffer from skin problems, which may be troublesome.
So, we will try to understand the skin changes associated with diabetes and explore ways to care for your skin.
What are the skin changes associated with diabetes?
Whether you have just been diagnosed with diabetes or have been managing it for years, taking care of your skin is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Now, let’s discuss the different types of skin changes that diabetics may experience:
- Dry skin: High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves and blood vessels that supply the skin, leading to dryness, flakiness, and itching.
- Infections: People with diabetes are more susceptible to bacterial and fungal skin infections, such as staph infections and candidiasis.
- Changes in skin color: Diabetes can cause changes in skin pigmentation, leading to darkened or lightened skin areas.
- Slow healing of wounds: High blood sugar levels can impair the body’s ability to heal wounds, leading to slow healing and an increased risk of infection.
- Itching and rashes: Diabetes can cause itching and rashes on the skin, especially in areas of the body where the skin folds or rubs together, such as the groin and armpits.
- Skin tags: People with diabetes may develop small, soft, flesh-colored growths on the skin called skin tags.
- Thickened skin: Diabetes can cause thickening of the skin on the hands and feet, leading to a loss of sensation and an increased risk of foot ulcers.
- Diabetic dermopathy: This condition causes small, round, brown patches on the skin, usually on the legs, which are harmless but can be a cosmetic concern.
- Digital sclerosis: Diabetes can cause the skin on the fingers, toes, and hands to become thick and tight, making it difficult to move the joints.
- Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum: This rare condition causes yellow, waxy patches on the skin, usually on the legs, which can be itchy and painful.
In addition, diabetes may lead to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) when glucose molecules in the blood react with proteins, such as collagen and elastin, in the skin. This reaction, known as glycation, can lead to the formation of cross-links between proteins, which can alter the structure and function of these proteins.
Structure of a protein molecule that may be cross-linked by excess glucose in diabetes
AGEs can cause damage to the skin by several mechanisms, including:
- Reduced skin elasticity: AGEs can cause cross-linking of collagen and elastin fibers, leading to reduced skin elasticity and flexibility.
- Reduced moisture retention: AGEs can also affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness and roughness.
- Inflammation: AGEs can contribute to inflammation in the skin, which can further damage the skin and lead to dryness.
Preventing Diabetic Skin Complications Through Diet & Lifestyle Changes
Diabetes is a medical condition that can cause serious skin complications if left untreated.
It is important to make lifestyle and dietary changes to prevent these complications. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking are all important steps to keep your skin healthy.
Moreover, diabetics should be aware of the signs of diabetic rash or ulcers and seek medical attention as soon as possible if they develop any symptoms.
How to Care for Your Skin if You Have Diabetes?
People with diabetes need to pay extra attention to their skincare routine.
Diabetes can cause dryness and itching, leading to other skin problems. Fortunately, there are some simple skin care tips you can take to keep your skin healthy and prevent any issues from arising.
From finding the right cleansers and moisturizers to protecting yourself from sun damage, there are many steps you can take to ensure that your skin stays healthy and beautiful.
References
- Van Putte L, De Schrijver S, Moortgat P. The effects of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) on dermal wound healing and scar formation: a systematic review. Scars, Burns & Healing. 2016;2:2059513116676828.
