DIABETIC'S SKIN AND SKINCARE
Diabetes is accompanied by many characteristic symptoms, including skin problems. The skin of diabetics dries out more quickly, becomes brittle and cracks – the skin on the legs and feet of older people can be particularly affected. Scratches, abrasions that are not properly cared for can be difficult to heal, and common infections such as athlete’s foot and fungal infections of the nails can explode into serious problems.
DIABETICS' SKIN AND THE IMPACT OF DIABETES ON SKIN AND NAILS?
High blood sugar levels due to diabetes can cause problems throughout the body, including problems with the skin and toenails. As many as four out of five diabetics have symptoms, the majority of whom are older.
Dry skin
The body wants to excrete the excess sugar through the kidneys and urine, losing water, which can also be seen on the skin. The alternation between dry, heated air in the home and cold, frosty air outside also contributes, to drying out the skin even further. The metabolic disease often reduces the function of sweat glands and sebaceous glands in diabetics, so the skin cannot store enough fat and moisture. Dry skin is often accompanied by persistent itching, which can be intermittent or permanent.
Skin inflammations and infections
Diabetic patients with diabetic neuropathy (i.e. nerve damage due to disordered blood sugar) are more prone to infections and complications. Although neuropathy does not directly cause infections, the reduced sensitivity means that wounds form more quickly, especially on the legs. As a result, minor injuries go unnoticed and are often infected. Inflammation occurs rapidly and wounds heal very poorly due to poor blood circulation.
Diabetics’ skin produces too little sweat and overheats, adding to the problems. The loss of sensation and tightness can also lead to ulceration or ulceration. The most common complication of neuropathy is a diabetic foot, which often requires professional treatment.
Nail infections and changes
Diabetes can cause toenails to turn yellow, break or change their texture and appearance. As the nail loses strength, it becomes porous, creating an ideal environment for fungal infection. The disturbing sensation of pain and damage to the nail, which makes it easier for fungi to get under the nail, also contributes to a faster and more frequent infection.
DIABETICS' SKIN - HOW TO TAKE CARE OF IT?
Humidification
The basic care of dry skin is based on oil replacement and intensive moisturization. Dry skin needs to be nourished every day with a nourishing cream that contains fat and also acts as a moisturiser. If the skin is very dry, a good quality oil can be applied before the cream. This should always be applied to damp skin, as this creates an emulsion that moisturises and nourishes the skin for quite some time.
Cuts should be taken care of immediately
Even the slightest damage to the skin can have serious consequences. The cut should be washed with soap and water and the wound cleaned with an antiseptic solution. If necessary, cover the wound with sterile gauze.
OXILVER® Skin Solution is an active oxygen solution for the skin, which accelerates skin renewal and nourishes the skin through the oxygenation and regeneration process. It has a mild antiseptic effect, while the complementary effect of ionic silver enhances the antimicrobial effect. Diabetics have a poor blood supply to the skin and consequently a poor supply of nutrients and oxygen. OXILVER enables just that – supplying the skin and nails with active oxygen.
Oxilver products
The active oxygen in OXILVER products is extracted using a special process and is the best approximation to the biological oxygen produced by our immune system. The result is targeted killing of harmful microbes without adverse effects on our body. At the same time, an active form of oxygen is released, which is recognised and taken up by the cell. Once inside the cell, it enters the mitochondria, which are the lungs and regenerator of the cell. This provides the cell with the oxygen and energy needed to carry out vital processes and regenerate damaged cells.
The added ingredients in OXILVER Skin products provide skincare, suppleness, and a radiant appearance. Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Vera contribute to intense hydration and accelerated skin healing. Hyaluronic acid is an integral part of the skin and can bind up to 1000 times its weight in water. Aloe vera can transfer active substances, which increases skin hydration and renewal.
Sources:
- Web MD: Diabetes and Your Skin: Take Care Every Day; October 2019 (Online access November 2021); www.webmd.com
- GWA Podiatry: Nail and Skin Care Tips for Diabetic Feet; 2019 (Online access November 2021); www.gwapodiatry.com
- Marija Mica Kotnik: Diabetics need to take care of their skin every day; Diabetes magazine, March 2014, pages 8 and 9 (Online access November 2021); www.diabetes-zveza.si
