We all want to smell good and look smart – that’s what body care is all about. This helps us feel good and start the day feeling fresh. It is no different for people with type 1 diabetes. However, they have to pay attention to a few more things and adapt their body care accordingly.
Skin care in particular is an important issue for people with type 1 diabetes. Because around a third of people suffer from functional disorders of the skin due to high blood sugar levels, they need to take good care of it. The skin of those affected is usually dry, cracked and less well-supplied with blood because the blood vessels are constricted. What’s more, the skin’s defences are also weakened.
Drink plenty of fluids, don’t shower too often and protect your skin
It helps to ensure that you drink enough fluids. Proper showering, bathing, care and protection are also part of the programme. Good sun protection is essential, especially in summer and on holiday. You should also avoid showering too frequently and taking excessively long, hot showers. People with type 1 diabetes should use soap or shower gel sparingly and instead opt for shower oils with a neutral pH value.
The same goes for baths: the water should not be warmer than 35 °C and you should not take more than one bath a week. Here again, people with type 1 diabetes should preferably use pH-neutral, moisturising and replenishing oils or additives. After the bath, moisturising lotions help to replenish the skin’s lost moisture. You should also avoid wearing synthetic clothing. This results in less sweating. We recommend clothing that is not too close-fitting and breathable. If you wear stockings or socks, change them daily.
You can tell when skin is stressed
In addition to the use of replenishing and moisturising products, you should also avoid so-called “skin stress” to protect and care for your skin. This means not using hydrogels, skin care products containing alcohol or peelings. If you suffer from severe acne, it helps to see a skin specialist who can prescribe products specially developed for people with type 1 diabetes.
Your feet also need special attention. For example, because of diabetic foot syndrome: sensory disturbances caused by diabetes can lead to undetected pressure sores and even open wounds. This is why it is advisable to check your feet regularly, including your nails and the spaces between your toes. Consult a doctor if you notice any bruises, injuries or wounds.
If in doubt, see a professional!
It is advantageous if nail care is carried out by a podiatrist. They do not cut the nails due to the risk of injury, but only file them straight and not too short. If you take care of your nails yourself, you should also pay attention to this. In addition, a healthy diet and plenty of exercise help the body to protect itself from the inside out.
