Caring for Diabetic Skin

People with diabetes can have complications with their eyes, heart and nerves, but what about the body's largest organ? According to the American Diabetes Association, as many as 1/3 of diabetics develop a skin disorder.

Here are some tips to make sure your skin is getting the care it needs:

• Make sure your skin is always clean and dry. Sprinkle talcum powder in areas where skin touches other skin to reduce chafing, sweating and irritation.
• Avoid hot showers or baths which can dry out the skin. Opt for lukewarm water and use a gentle moisturizing soap followed by moisturizing lotion.
• Promptly wash any cuts or scrapes with soap and water and cover the wound with a gauze pad.
• See your doctor if skin wounds appear serious or don't seem to heal.