People who have diabetes are more likely to develop certain rashes, infections and other skin changes. Some diabetes and skin conditions are linked to high blood sugar, while others are simply more common in people with diabetes. If you have type 1 diabetes, technology such as a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or insulin pump can also cause skin irritation. Most diabetic skin problems are not serious, but it is important to notice changes and speak to your GP or Diabetes Healthcare Team if you are worried.
How Does Diabetes Affect Your Skin?
When there is too much sugar in your blood, your body will try to remove it through your urine. This can cause you to lose more fluid, which can leave your skin feeling dry and itchy. Diabetes can also affect your blood vessels and circulation, and this can make it harder for cuts and other injuries to heal. High blood sugar can also make it harder for your immune system to fight infections so you could be more likely to develop bacterial and fungal infections.
Nerve damage can cause problems too. If you have reduced feeling in your feet, you may not notice a small cut, blister or burn. An injury that is not treated can become infected. This is why skin changes with diabetes should be checked, especially when they affect your feet. For more information on diabetes and foot conditions, visit
Common Skin Conditions Linked to Type 1 Diabetes
These are the most common skin conditions that are linked to diabetes:
- Psoriasis. People who have type 1 diabetes are more likely to develop psoriasis. It causes patches of dry, scaly and discoloured skin usually on the scalp, elbows and knees. There are treatments available, so speak to your GP if you think you may have psoriasis.
- Vitiligo. Vitiligo causes patches of skin to lose their colour and leaves pale or white areas. It is an autoimmune condition and is more common in people with type 1 diabetes.
- Diabetic dermopathy. Diabetic dermopathy causes small, round patches on the legs, and they can be red, brown or darker than the surrounding skin. The spots are usually harmless and do not hurt or itch. They often fade over time and normally do not need treatment.
- Necrobiosis lipoidica. Necrobiosis lipoidica is a rare condition that is linked with diabetes. It often appears on the shins as yellow, red-brown, dark or purplish patches. The skin can become thin and fragile, and in some cases, it can break and form an open sore. These sores can take a long time to heal, so always speak to your healthcare team if you notice these changes.
- Diabetic blisters. Diabetic blisters are rare and can appear without an obvious injury. They often develop on the feet, legs, hands or arms. They can look like the blisters you can get when you burn yourself, but they don’t usually hurt. They often heal by themselves, but don’t pop them, as this can increase the risk of infection.
Skin Infections
People who have diabetes can be more likely to develop skin infections, especially if their blood sugar levels are high. Bacterial infections can cause skin to become red, swollen and painful and fungal infections can cause itchy, red or scaly skin. They often appear in warm areas of the body like the armpits and folds of skin. Thrush, also known as Candida, is a fungal infection and it can appear in the mouth, genitals and areas where skin touches skin.
If you keep getting infections like these, speak to your GP or Diabetes Healthcare Team. For more information on diabetes and skin conditions, visit
Other Diabetic Skin Problems
There are several other diabetes and skin conditions to be aware of.
- Digital sclerosis causes the skin on the fingers to become thick, tight and waxy. It can make the fingers harder to move.
- Granuloma annulare causes small bumps that can form a ring shape. It can appear on the hands, feet or other areas.
- Acanthosis nigricans causes darker, thicker and velvety-looking skin, usually around the neck, groin or armpits. It is more common with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.
- Eruptive xanthomatosis causes small yellowish or reddish bumps that can be itchy or sore. It can happen when blood fats, such as triglycerides, are very high.
Not every skin problem is caused by diabetes. However, skin changes with diabetes that do not go away or have any other cause should be checked by a healthcare professional.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most diabetic skin problems are not serious, but some can get worse if they are left untreated. Speak to your GP or Diabetes Healthcare Team if you notice a new rash, unusual skin colour, itching that won’t go away or a skin problem that is getting worse. You should also get medical advice if you have a cut or wound that is not healing well, particularly on your foot.
Redness, swelling, warmth, pain or discharge can be signs of an infection. Looking after your skin and paying attention to skin changes with diabetes can help you spot problems early on.
FAQs
Can Diabetes Cause Dry and Itchy Skin?
Yes. High blood sugar can cause your body to lose more fluid, which can make your skin dry and itchy. Diabetes can also affect your circulation. Using moisturiser and keeping your blood sugar within your target range can help.
What Skin Problems Are Common With Diabetes?
Common diabetic skin problems include dry skin, infections, diabetic dermopathy and diabetic blisters. People who suffer from type 1 diabetes are also more likely to develop conditions such as psoriasis and vitiligo.
When Should I Worry About a Skin Problem?
Speak to your GP or your Diabetes Healthcare Team if a skin problem is new, painful, spreading or not getting any better. You should also get medical advice about wounds that are not healing, especially if they’re on your feet.
