Search the site for providers, locations, and content.
Main Menu
Prevention
Your Health Checklist: Protecting Your Skin OO
Your Health Checklist: Protecting Your Skin OOYour skin is the largest organ of your body and your main defense against infection.When you have diabetes, high blood sugar, also called glucose, can cause your skin to dry and crack, making you more at risk for problems.Follow this checklist to help protect your skin.Do: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your skin hydrated from the inside.Do: Keep your skin clean. And always protect it from damage.And when showering or bathing, check the water with your elbow before getting in, to make sure it’s not hot enough to burn you. Nerve damage in your feet due to neuropathy, may not allow you to feel very hot water.Do: Use a mild soap, with warm, not hot, water and pat your skin dry with a towel. Do not rub it.Do: Apply moisturizer right after your bath or shower. This way, your lotion can lock in the moisture your body has already absorbed.If you moisturize with a lotion or cream, choose one that doesn’t contain alcohol because alcohol tends to take moisture away from the skin.Do not: Put the lotion between your toes.Adding lotion to this warm, moist area can lead to bacterial or fungal infections.Do not: Forget to wear appropriate sunscreen, clothing with built-in SPF, and find a place in the shade.And don’t forget to apply the sunscreen to your feet; they can burn too.Do not: Scratch any insect bites. There are several products available that can take the itch out of your bite and protect your skin.Use insect repellant when needed.Following this checklist can help keep your skin healthy and able to protect you from infection and damage.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© 2026 WebMD Ignite
From routine checkups to specialized pediatric care, our family of doctors is here for yours.
Follow this checklist for tips on how to protect your feet every day.
Watch this to learn why regular skin and foot exams are important when you have diabetes.
Watch this to learn how to keep your skin and feet healthy when you have diabetes.
Watch this video to learn tips on how to care for skin and nails during cancer treatment.
