Diabetic Skin Conditions: Causes, Symptoms and Care
People with diabetes have a high risk of several kinds of skin problems. About 1 in 3 people with diabetes will have a skin problem at some point in their lives. These problems are sometimes the first sign of high blood sugar. Keeping blood sugar well controlled is the key to both preventing and treating diabetic skin conditions. This article explains the causes, the most common types of skin conditions, how to care for them, and foot care, an area that needs special attention.
What causes diabetic skin conditions?
Blood sugar that stays high for a long time affects the skin in several ways.
Blood vessels — Damage to small blood vessels means the skin does not receive enough blood.
Nerves — Damage to the peripheral nerves reduces sensation, so you may not notice when you have a wound.
Immune system — A weakened immune system makes infections more likely.
Moisture — Sweat glands that do not work normally leave the skin dry and prone to cracking.
Common skin conditions in people with diabetes
Acanthosis Nigricans — Thickened, darkened skin on the neck, armpits and groin, often linked to insulin resistance.
Diabetic Dermopathy — Flat brown spots on the shins.
Necrobiosis Lipoidica — Firm yellow-brown patches with clearly visible tiny blood vessels on the shins.
Diabetic Foot Ulcer — A sore on the foot caused by nerve damage together with poor blood supply.
Fungal infections — Fungal infections of the skin and nails, which are common in people with diabetes.
Treatment and care
The most important step is keeping blood sugar within the normal range. Specific treatment depends on the type of skin condition.
Fungal infections — Antifungal medication for fungal infections.
Inflammatory rashes — Topical steroids for Necrobiosis Lipoidica.
Foot ulcers — Proper wound dressing and care of diabetic foot ulcers.
Dry skin — Moisturizing cream for dry skin, to reduce cracking and infection.
A dermatologist can help diagnose the condition and choose the most suitable treatment for each person.
Foot care for people with diabetes
The feet need special attention because nerve damage means you may not feel pain when a wound develops.
Check your feet — Check your feet every day for redness, swelling, sores or blisters.
Keep them clean — Wash your feet with warm water every day and dry them thoroughly. Apply moisturizer, but not between the toes.
Prevent injuries — Cut toenails straight across, not curved. Wear well-fitting shoes that do not press on the feet, and do not walk barefoot.
Follow up — Have your feet examined by a doctor at least once a year, and see a doctor right away if you find a sore on your foot.
Frequently asked questions
Is dark skin on the neck related to diabetes? It may be. Acanthosis Nigricans, or thickened, darkened skin on the neck, armpits and groin, is often a sign of insulin resistance or diabetes, so a blood sugar test is advisable.
Does diabetes make fungal infections more likely? Yes. High blood sugar allows fungi to grow well, so fungal infections of the skin, groin and nails are more common in people with diabetes.
Can diabetic foot ulcers be prevented? Yes, by controlling blood sugar, checking your feet every day, wearing suitable shoes, and seeing a doctor right away when there is a wound, to prevent it from worsening and causing complications.
Why do people with diabetes have dry skin? High blood sugar and sweat glands that do not work normally cause the skin to lose moisture. Moisturizer and blood sugar control help reduce dry skin and cracking.
If you have diabetes and have skin problems or a foot sore, you can consult a dermatologist at Siam Dermatology by phone at +66 61 448 7000 or LINE @siamderm for comprehensive care.
Written by Dr. Patara Voravutinon, Dermatologist · Last reviewed July 16, 2026
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