If you have diabetes, you know that the disease can affect more than your blood glucose levels. When it comes to your skin, diabetes slows the healing process, increases the chance of fungal infections, and causes your skin to be dry and itchy. Keeping your blood sugar level under control is the best way to avoid these problems, but even small fluctuations can create issues with your skin. Here are a few tips to help you keep your skin looking sweet.

Hydrate

When your blood sugar is high, your body pulls the liquid from your skin, blood, and organs to produce more urine in an attempt to rid itself of the excess sugar. This causes your skin to dry and become itchy. When you scratch the itch, you may break the skin and cause sores. Many over-the-counter lotions will moisturize your skin briefly, but will not keep it moist all day long. A dermatologist, like those at Heibel Dermatology, can prescribe a lotion that will help keep your skin from drying so you won't scratch it.

Exercise

Exercise increases the blood flow to your skin. This is especially good if you have a sore or infection as it keeps fresh, healthy blood and nutrients flowing to the area. However, you should carry a clean, damp washcloth with you while exercising to wipe sweat away. You should also be sure to wash well before you begin to exercise. Your pores will open as you begin to sweat, allowing dirt and bacteria to enter and possibly cause infections.

Water Temperature

When you shower, bathe, or do any cleaning, avoid using hot water. Not only will hot water open your pores and allow dirt and bacteria you are trying to wash away enter your body, it will also cause your skin to dry. In addition, if you are suffering from any diabetic neuropathy, you may not realize how hot the water is, and it could burn your skin. If you must use hot water for cleaning around the house or doing dishes, be sure to wear protective gloves, and do not keep your hands in the water for more than a few minutes.

Any time you have a sore that does not heal, your skin is itchy to the point of scratching it open, or you have painful inflamed areas of skin, make an appointment with a dermatologist. He or she can prescribe an antibiotic and/or a lotion that will heal any problems. In addition, you will get more information on how you can take care of your skin yourself.