If you have diabetes, you may well suffer from dry feet – causing the skin to peel and crack. Diabetes and dry feet commonly go hand-in-glove (or should that be foot-in-shoe?). It is a common symptom of diabetes, and happens because the nerves that control the oil and moisture in your feet no longer work properly.
There are several things that you can do to ensure and maintain healthy skin on your feet. Here are our 5 top tips…
1. Wash And Dry Carefully
For individuals living with diabetes, the practice of washing feet daily plays a crucial role in preventing complications. It’s recommended to use a mild, neutral soap, which is gentle on the skin and less likely to cause irritation. This simple, yet effective diabetic foot care routine helps in maintaining the integrity of your skin, reducing the risk of infections.
The temperature of the water should be warm but not hot. Hot water can exacerbate skin dryness and may cause unnoticed burns due to diabetic neuropathy. Warm water, on the other hand, is soothing and effective in cleaning without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
When washing, pay special attention to the entire foot area, including the often-neglected regions such as the soles and the spaces between the toes. This thorough cleansing is crucial in diabetic foot hygiene, as it removes dirt and bacteria, reducing the risk of infections like athlete’s foot, which can have more severe implications for diabetic individuals.
After washing, it’s essential to dry your feet attentively, focusing on every area, especially between the toes. Moisture trapped in these areas can create a breeding ground for fungal infections. Use a soft, clean towel and pat your feet gently rather than rubbing vigorously. This careful drying method is a vital step in diabetic foot care, as it helps prevent skin breakdown and infections.
2. Use A Moisturising Lotion
There are many moisturising lotions available for diabetic skin, and your podiatrist will be able to recommend one. The lotion will keep your skin soft and moist. Don’t put the lotion between your toes, as extra moisture there can lead to infection.
It’s crucial to understand the unique needs of diabetic skin care. When selecting a moisturising lotion, look for options that are specifically formulated for sensitive or diabetic skin. These lotions typically avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate or dry out the skin, which is particularly important for those managing diabetes-related skin sensitivity.
Ingredients such as glycerin, dimethicone, lanolin, and certain natural oils can be beneficial in a diabetic moisturiser. They help in retaining moisture and protecting the skin barrier without causing irritation. Avoid lotions with alcohol, fragrances, or dyes, as they can be drying and irritating.
Apply the lotion immediately after washing and gently drying your feet. This helps to lock in moisture. Apply a thin, even layer of lotion over the entire foot, but be cautious to avoid the areas between your toes. Excess moisture in these areas can increase the risk of fungal infections.
Regular application is key. Depending on your skin’s dryness, you might need to moisturise your feet once or twice a day. Consistency in this routine can significantly prevent skin complications associated with diabetes.
While using a moisturising lotion, regularly monitor your feet for any changes, such as increased dryness, redness, or signs of infection. These could indicate a need for a different type of moisturiser or additional medical attention.
Always consider consulting with your healthcare provider or podiatrist for personalised recommendations. They can suggest the best moisturising products that align with your specific diabetic foot care needs. This personalised approach is crucial for effective diabetes management and foot care.
3. Keep Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can help. When your body is healthy and well hydrated, you will see improvements in your skin too. It is recommended that you drink between 1.6-2 litres of water a day.
It’s also important to remember that skin hydration starts from within. Along with topical moisturisers, ensure you’re drinking enough water to keep your body and skin well-hydrated. This internal hydration, combined with the right moisturising lotion, forms a comprehensive approach to managing diabetic foot care.
4. Think Carefully About Your Shoe Choices
People with diabetes are advised not to walk around barefoot, because small cuts and abrasions can lead to far more serious conditions. However, your feet won’t be happy spending all of their time stuffed into shoes. Consider footwear that allows your feet to breathe.
When choosing shoes, it’s essential for those with diabetes to look for options that combine comfort, protection, and breathability. Ideally, diabetic footwear should have a wide toe box to prevent crowding of the toes, reducing the risk of sores or blisters. Look for shoes made from materials that allow air circulation to keep the feet dry, as moisture can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
Additionally, opting for shoes with good cushioning and arch support can help distribute weight evenly, minimising pressure on any part of the foot. It’s often beneficial to have your shoes professionally fitted to ensure proper size and comfort.
Diabetic individuals should also consider changing their shoes throughout the day, as feet can swell, changing the fit and comfort of the shoes. Remember, the right shoes are a crucial part of diabetic foot care, significantly reducing the risk of foot injuries and complications.
5. See Your Podiatrist Regularly
If you have diabetes, you should see your podiatrist on a weekly basis – and you can always book another appointment if you are particularly worried about your dry feet. Podiatrists are specially trained in diabetic foot care and will be able to help with any issues. Check your feet each day and tell your podiatrist about anything you have noticed – for example, a sore that won’t heal or any signs of redness or swelling.
Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and Cracked Heels
Cracked heels can be uncomfortable at the best of times, but for people living with diabetes, they can present a much more serious concern. Elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves and impair circulation, which in turn affects the skin’s ability to retain moisture and heal effectively. As the skin on your feet becomes increasingly dry and brittle, small cracks can appear—particularly around the heels. Left untreated, these can deepen and lead to infection or ulceration, especially when blood flow is already compromised.
If you’ve noticed the skin on your heels becoming dry or splitting, it’s important to take action sooner rather than later. Even a small crack has the potential to develop into something far more problematic if not properly addressed.
Why Dry, Cracked Feet Are So Common in Diabetes
There are several reasons why dry, cracked heels occur more frequently in people with diabetes. One of the most common causes is peripheral neuropathy. This condition affects the nerves responsible for controlling sweat and oil production in the skin. When these nerves are damaged, your feet produce less moisture, resulting in dry, fragile skin.
Another contributing factor is poor circulation. When blood flow to the feet is reduced, your skin becomes less able to regenerate and heal itself. This makes it much harder for small cracks or cuts to recover, increasing the risk of complications.
Many people with diabetes also find that ill-fitting shoes or spending too much time barefoot can lead to pressure points on the feet. This pressure, combined with dryness, often leads to cracked heels. And finally, inconsistent foot care or using the wrong products can exacerbate the problem.
Choosing the Right Foot Cream for Diabetic Skin
If you’re searching for the best foot cream for diabetics, it’s worth knowing what to look for. Not all moisturisers are suitable for sensitive or diabetic skin, so be selective. Ideally, you’ll want a cream that is fragrance-free and contains gentle, effective ingredients designed to hydrate and protect the skin.
Moisturisers that include urea are often recommended for diabetic foot care, as they deeply penetrate the skin and help to repair cracked areas. Other helpful ingredients include glycerin, which attracts and retains moisture, and lanolin, which helps form a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. Products that contain alcohol or artificial fragrances should be avoided, as they can dry out the skin even further or trigger irritation.
Your podiatrist can help you find the right cream for your skin’s unique needs, and at Northwich Foot Clinic, we regularly advise our diabetic patients on exactly this.
Know When to Ask for Help
Monitoring your feet daily is one of the most important things you can do if you live with diabetes. If your dry skin isn’t improving with moisturising, or if you spot signs such as swelling, redness, or increased soreness around a cracked area, it’s time to consult your podiatrist.
Other signs that require professional attention include any wound that isn’t healing, skin that feels unusually warm to the touch, or any change in colour or texture. These may indicate infection or impaired healing, and early intervention is key to avoiding further complications.
Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference
Managing diabetic dry skin isn’t just about what you put on your feet—it’s also about how you look after them day-to-day. Changing your socks regularly, wearing breathable cotton rather than synthetic fabrics, and avoiding walking barefoot can all help maintain healthier skin. In colder months, using a humidifier at home can reduce dryness caused by central heating. Supporting your circulation by occasionally raising your feet can also make a noticeable difference.
Combining these simple daily habits with the right skincare products and regular podiatry appointments will help you manage diabetic foot dryness more effectively.
Diabetes And Dry Feet? Here’s What You Shouldn’t Do…
If you’re suffering from diabetes and dry feet, and need further advice, it’s important to get professional insights. Removing dry skin on your feet often includes using harsh chemicals or metal files, and you may be tempted to do this yourself. If you have diabetes – or suspect that you might – you should avoid these methods. Any small cuts or abrasions can easily develop into much more serious conditions in a person with diabetes.
Persistent dry skin can also lead to infections, so always make sure that you raise any concerns with your podiatrist. Keeping your feet healthy is vital – and your podiatrist is here to help.
At Northwich Foot Clinic, our team of experienced podiatrists are adept at treating dry feet caused by diabetes. We provide tailored care packages that will meet your individual needs, and we are audited and accredited by the College of Podiatry. To book your first appointment, use our simple online booking form or call us on 01606 45077.
