Johannesburg, 14 November 2024 – On this World Diabetes Day, the spotlight turns to the over 4.5 million South Africans living with diabetes, a chronic condition that extends its reach beyond the commonly known symptoms to include significant effects on skin health.
Dr. Judey, a leading biomedical scientist and product development specialist, highlights the intricate relationship between diabetes and skin complications, urging individuals to prioritise skin health. "High blood glucose levels can lead to a variety of skin-related issues that are often overlooked," Dr. Judey explains. "Diabetes impairs the body's natural ability to regulate moisture and immune response, making individuals more susceptible to dryness, infections, and poor wound healing."
Key Skin Concerns Linked to Diabetes:
● Dry Skin (Xerosis): Diabetes often causes the skin, particularly on the lower legs and feet, to become dry, itchy, and flaky due to dehydration.
● Increased Risk of Infections: Elevated glucose levels weaken the immune system, increasing vulnerability to bacterial and fungal infections like athlete’s foot, cellulitis, and styes.
● Diabetic Dermopathy (Shin Spots): Harmless brown patches on the shins,
resulting from blood vessel changes.
● Acanthosis Nigricans: Characterised by dark, velvety patches of skin in
areas with folds, commonly linked to insulin resistance.
● Poor Wound Healing: Slow recovery from wounds and ulcers, especially on
the feet, due to restricted blood flow and impaired healing.
● Blisters: These rare blisters appear in individuals with poorly controlled diabetes. These are large and painless blisters and usually occur on the hands, feet, or legs and typically resolve on their own, but they require monitoring to prevent infection.
● Rashes and Itchy Skin: Diabetes can increase the likelihood of skin
conditions such as rashes due to fungal infections, poor circulation, or changes in the skin's pH balance. Symptoms include redness, itching, or rash- like lesions.
Skincare as Part of Diabetes Management:
● Foot and Limb Care: Vigilance in caring for the feet and lower limbs is
essential to prevent severe complications like ulcers and infections.
● Daily Moisturisation: Helps maintain skin hydration, especially on legs and feet.
● Regular Skin Checks: Early identification of infections or unusual changes.
● Monitor Blood Sugar Levels: Crucial for influencing skin health and overall
"The skin often mirrors the body's internal state. Attentive skincare can signal early warnings of other diabetes-related issues, enhancing overall health management." concludes Dr. Judey
About Dr. Judey Pretorius
Dr. Judey is a distinguished Biomedical Scientist with vast expertise in wound healing, regenerative medicine, and cell therapy. Her academic accolades include a Master’s degree in Genetics and Molecular Biology and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry. As the founder of Biomedical Emporium®, she has propelled advancements in skincare by formulating innovative products that support the skin's natural rejuvenation and repair processes.
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