7 Best Diabetes Dry Skin Products
The skin forms a protective barrier to external elements. It is the largest organ of the body, passing moisture in both directions. As people age, this barrier begins to deteriorate, becoming more susceptible to dry skin, infections, and ulcers. Illnesses like diabetes compound the risk of skin disorders by increasing skin dehydration, fungal infections, and pressure sores.1 At least one-third of people with diabetes manifest skin disorders. For many, skin manifestations are the first external sign they can visually see that they have diabetes.2 Having too much sugar in the blood instigates a change in blood chemistry, reducing blood flow and causing blood vessels to narrow and become hardened.3 These conditions reduce the amount of blood that nourishes the dermal layers. Skin that lacks nourishment and hydration begins to become dry and rough, leading to a host of dermatological illnesses.4 Dry skin conditions can lead to xerosis, eczema, psoriasis, pruritus, ichthyosis, and other ailments. Many of these illnesses are preventable and treatable by hydrating and nourishing the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin) with certain creams or lotions.5 One study of diabetic patients found that 44% of them have xerosis. The remedy was applying fragrance-free moisturizing creams or lotions within three minutes of bathing. This procedure kept moisture from escaping from the skin.6
This article examines the top lotions and creams for diabetic dry skin. These protective cream products are of two kinds: diabetic brand-specific or standard dry skin formulas. Diabetic-branded products usually contain an element of the word "diabetes" within the brand name to target diabetic patients. Dry skin preparations do not specifically target diabetic patients, but their formulas meet many of these patients' needs. Both types of products prevent and treat dry skin associated with diabetes. Seven of the first eight products on the list are "branded" diabetic skin products. The fifth and last two products on the list are generic dry skin products. Included at the end of this article is a list of other noteworthy severe dry skin products useful in treating diabetic skin.
Ranking the Top Best Diabetes Skin Care Products
Top 7 Diabetes Lotion Products For Sale Breakout
#1 Gold Bond Ultimate Diabetics
This Gold Bond product is a topical emollient specifically formulated for diabetic dry skin. It is a hydrating lotion for the entire body. Apply liberally to dry or chafed skin. It contains aloe to soothe and hydrate skin and Hydralast®, a proprietary blend of emollients and humectants that draw moisture to the skin throughout the day. It also contains Vitamin E to enhance the skin's immune system and minimize moisture loss. A dermatologist study found that 90% of diabetic users indicate noticeable skin improvement within one hour of applying the Gold Bond product. Gold Bond Diabetics is the best moisturizer for diabetic dry skin.
Ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Dimethicone, Jojoba Esters, Petrolatum, Cetyl Alcohol, Distearyldimonium Chloride, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Stearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Glyceryl Stearate, Methyl Gluceth-20, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Bisabolol, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Polysorbate 60, Retinyl Palmitate, Stearamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract, Propylene Glycol, Steareth-21, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Diazolidinyl Urea, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Methylparaben, EDTA, Propylparaben, Boswellia Serrata Gum, Dipropylene Glycol, Potassium Hydroxide (309-008)
Specifications
- Size: 13 Ounces
- Container: Pump Bottle
- Application: Dry Diabetic Skin
- Form: Lotion
- Fragrance-Free
- Brand: Gold Bond
- Manufacturer: Chattem
Documents and Additional Information
Gold Bond Ultimate Diabetic Skin Relief Lotion Review (3:50 minutes)
Pros
✓ Low Price
✓ Quickly Absorbed
✓ Nourishes SkinNourishes Skin
✓ Non-Greasy Formula
✓ Hypoallergenic
✓ Thick Formula
✓ Forms Protective Layer
✓ Hydrates Skin for 24 Hours
✓ Contains Seven Intensive Moisturizing Agents
✓ Large Container Size for Fewer Purchases
#2 Borage DiabetiCare Foot Cream
Borage DiabetiCare soothes dry skin with Omega-6 fatty acids and treats diabetic skin with borage plant oil, rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Active ingredients include aloe, safflower oil, Jojoba oil, Dimethicone, Vitamin E, Shea Butter, and Urea. This formula of ingredients offers soothing relief to severely dry skin. The cream absorbs quickly into the skin for fast relief from itching and pain. The formula is ideal for the lower legs and feet, where people with diabetes experience the most problems with dry and cracked skin. Borage DiabetiCare Foot Cream is an over-the-counter product that does not require a prescription. Borage DiabeticCare is the best foot cream for diabetics.
Ingredients
Aloe Vera Gel, Glycerine, Safflower Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Jojoba Seed Oil, Borage Seed Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Vitamin E Acetate, Shea Butter, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, L-Ergothioneine, Diazolidinyl Urea, and Methylparaben
Specifications
- Size: 4.2 oz
- Container: Squeeze Tube With Flip-Top Cap
- Application: Diabetic Feet
- Form: Cream
- Fragrance-Free
- Made in the USA
- Brand: DiabetiCare
- Manufacturer: DiabetiCare Labs (ShiKai)
Pros
✓ Moisturizes the Skin
✓ Hydrates
✓ Soothes Damaged Skin
✓ Offers Deep Penetration for Best Results
✓ Skin-Friendly
✓ Relieves Pain
#3 TriDerma Diabetes Foot Defense
This TriDerma MD product heals dry and cracked skin. Its formula contains extra-strength moisturizers that offer deep penetration and skin repair. The composition is non-greasy and fragrance-free. It soothes painful, sensitive skin and fights bacteria. It contains lactic acid to soften and smooth calluses and cracked skin. It also contains Allantoin and Dimethicone for skin protection. TriDerma MD Diabetes Foot Defense is a concentrated moisturizing cream recommended by podiatrists available in a 2.2-ounce tube.
Ingredients
Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Urea, Isopropyl Palmitate, Lactic Acid, Polysorbate 60, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Dimethicone, Allantoin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hydroxide, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Avena Sativa (Oat Kernel Extract), Zinc PCA, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium PCS, Sodium Phytate, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
Specifications
- Size: 2.2 Ounces
- Container: Squeeze Tube With Flip-top Cap
- Application: Diabetic Foot Skin
- Form: Cream
- Fragrance-Free
- Brand: Diabetics Foot Defense
- Manufacturer: TriDerma MD
Pros
✓ Soothing for Skin Pain and Itching
✓ Softens Cracked Feet and Elbows
✓ Concentrated Formula Goes a Long Way
✓ Non-Greasy Formula
✓ Restores Healthy Skin
✓ Dermatologist-Tested
#4 Foot Miracle Therapeutic Cream by Straight Arrow
Foot Miracle Therapeutic Cream ranked #10 in 2021 and has moved up to #5 this year. This cream is a practitioner-strength product found in many Podiatrist offices. It is a professional product that is available to consumers without a prescription. Manufactured by Straight Arrow, this product softens calluses and rough skin. It absorbs into the dermal layers quickly and converts dry skin into healthy skin. Although the product name focuses on the foot, which is a significant concern for diabetes patients, this cream is also beneficial for repairing heel, knee, and elbow skin. It is also instrumental in rejuvenating nails. Select a 6-ounce tube or 32-ounce pump bottle.
Ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Distearyldimonium Chloride, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Urea, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine Lactate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Allantoin, Sodium Chloride, Glycine Soya (Soybean) Oil, Polysorbate 60, Steareth-20, Glucose Glutamate, Wheat Germ Glycerides, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Fragrance (Parfum), Methylparaben, PEG-150 Stearate, Propylparaben, Methylchloroisothiazolinone/Methylisothiazolinone, Amyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Benzoate, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Citronellol, Coumarin, Eugenol, Geraniol, Linalool, Hydroxyisohexyl-3-Cyxlohexene Carboxaldehyde
Specifications
- Size: 8 Ounces or 32 Ounces
- Container: Squeeze Tube With Flip-Top Cap or Pump Bottle
- Application: Dry Foot Skin
- Form: Lotion
- Fragrance-Free
- Brand: Foot Miracle
- Manufacturer: Straight Arrow
Pros
✓ Smooths Rough Skin
✓ Hydrates Severely Dry Skin
✓Provides Deep Penetration
✓ Not Sticky or Greasy
✓ No Oily Residue
✓ Fast Absorption
✓ Rejuvenates Extremely Dry Feet, Hands, and Nails
✓ Works on Heels, Elbows, and Knees
✓ Therapeutic Cream
✓ Softens Calluses
✓ Fortifies Weak Nails
✓ Made in the USA
✓ Low Price
#5 TriDerma Diabetics Dry Skin Defense
The TriDerma Diabetics product for dry skin is highly concentrated. It is non-greasy and acts to nourish dry skin and repair compromised skin. This product hydrates dry skin to make it smooth and soft. The ingredients include aloe to soothe, oats to heal, urea to moisturize, and Vitamins B & E to strengthen. Dermatologists tested the effectiveness of this skin cream.
Ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis (AP4® genuine virgin organic aloe vera) Leaf Extract, Urea, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Extract, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Zinc PCA, Avocado Oil, Petrolatum, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Squalane, Sodium PCA, Beeswax, Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5), Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Polysorbate 60, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, IPBC, and Disodium Edta
Specifications
- Size: 2.2 Ounces
- Container: Squeeze Tube With Flip-Top Cap
- Application: Dry Diabetic Skin
- Form: Cream
- Fragrance-Free
- Brand: Diabetics Dry Skin Defense
- Manufacturer: TriDerma MD
Pros
✓ Formulated for Diabetic Use
✓ Concentrated Composition
✓ Reinforces Skin's Natural Protective Barrier
✓ Non-Greasy
✓ Restores Wholesome Skin
✓ Heals Mild to Severely Dry Skin
✓ Maintains Healthy Skin
✓ Made in the USA
#6 Eucerin Original Healing
Eucerin is a highly respected line of skincare products. Eucerin is non-comedogenic, dye-free, and fragrance-free. The Original Healing product is the only dry, sensitive skincare product in the top 10 available in both a cream or lotion. The cream comes in a 16-ounce jar, while the lotion is available in a 16.9-ounce pump bottle. Both versions moisturize severely dry skin and aid in rebuilding damaged skin.
Ingredients
Water, Mineral Oil, Isopropyl Palmitate, Sorbitol, Propylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Polyglyceryl-4, Diisostearate/Polyhydroxystearate/Sebacate, Cetyl Palmitate, Magnesium Sulfate, Aluminum Stearates, Phenoxyethanol, Lanolin Alcohol, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate.
Specifications
- Size: 16 Ounces or 16.9 Ounces
- Container: Jar or Pump Bottle
- Application: Dry Skin Moisturizer
- Form: Lotion or Cream
- Fragrance-Free
- Brand: Eucerin
- Manufacturer: Beiersdorf
Documents and Additional Information
Eucerin Original Healing Cream Review Video (8:59 minutes)
Pros
✓ Long-Lasting
✓ Intensive Moisture Replacement
✓ Binds Water to the Skin
✓ Does Not Block Pores
✓ Low Price
#7 Lantiseptic Dry Skin Therapy
Lantiseptic offers a therapeutic dermal cream with lanolin and beeswax to promote dermal moisture balance. It protects skin at risk of tearing or shearing and supports the healing of damaged skin. This formulation softens calluses and wards off cracked skin. It forms an excellent moisture barrier to keep out urine and fecal matter. Lantiseptic Dry Skin Therapy is also useful in keeping hands from drying out from multiple washing cycles often experienced by people in the healthcare industry. Manufactured by DermaRite, Lantiseptic comes in a 4-ounce squeeze tube.
Ingredients
Beeswax (Yellow Wax), Disodium EDTA, DMDM Hydantoin + IPBC, Lanolin Alcohol, Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Purified Water, Sodium Borate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Specifications
- Size: 4 oz.
- Container: Squeeze Tube With Flip-Top Cap
- Application: Moisturizing Skin Barrier for Dry Skin
- Form: Lotion
- Fragrance Free
- Brand: Dry Skin Therapy
- Manufacturer: Lantiseptic
Documents and Additional Information
Pros
✓ Offers Protection for Ulcer-Prone Skin
✓ Excellent Moisturizer and Barrier Cream
✓ Skin Protectant
✓ External Analgesic Against Itching and Pain
✓ Long-Lasting Protection
✓ Treats Burns and Minor Cuts
✓ Treats Dry and Rough Skin
Additional Skin Care Products For Sale
Detecting Diabetic Skin
A list of the common signs of diabetic skin is below. Often the signs begin in the feet where blood circulation is at its worst. Treating epidermal problems is easily done at home and does not have to be expensive.
- Dry Epidermal Layers
- Cracked Epidermis
- Chafing
- Itching
- Burning
- Rough Calluses
- Swelling
Treating Diabetic Dermal Conditions
Poor blood circulation causes swelling, dry skin, numbness, or a loss of sensation. People with diabetes often experience tingling and itchiness. Circulation problems can also affect blood pressure and heart strain. Skin preparations can help to alleviate symptoms, reduce moisture loss, and neutralize free radicals. The application of specialized skincare products that contain ingredients that aid blood circulation and moisture exchange can help diabetic skin conditions. Below is a list arranged in alphabetical order of some of the active ingredients in lotions and creams that help diabetic skin become healthy again.
List of Top Ingredients for Diabetes Skin Treatments
- Allantion - moisturizes to treat scaly, ichy, and dry skin.
- Aloe Vera - is a natural ingredient with anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic properties.
- Avena - is an oatmeal derivative that improves dry dermis and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Beeswax - is a humectant that attracts moisture and is a natural exfoliant.
- Citric Acid - is an exfoliant, helping to remove dead epidermal cells and clean pores.
- Coconut Oil - reduces inflammation, acts as a moisturizer, and provides antimicrobial activity.
- Dimethicone - is a silicone-based polymer that acts to protect, condition, and moisturize the epidermis.
- Glycerin - coats the epidermis to trap moisture.
- Jojoba Oil - is a seed extract that reduces wrinkles and smoothes the epidermis. It also keeps pores from clogging.
- Lactic Acid - smooths and brightens epidermal layers. It reduces wrinkles and exfoliates.
- OMEGA 6 Oils - are amino acids essential for healthy skin.
- Petrolatum - is a mineral oil jelly used to form an epidermal barrier.
- Safflower Oil - hydrates dry skin and reduces irritation and rashes.
- Shea Butter - has a high concentration of fatty acids and vitamins that are anti-inflammatory and soften the skin.
- Squalane - is a natural emollient that locks in moisture.
- Triclosan - functions as an antibacterial and antifungal.
- Urea - softens tissue that improves rough and cracked skin as well as calluses.
- Vitamins A, C, and E - increases immunity and blood circulation.
- Zinc - is a mineral that protects the epidermis from free radicals. Its supports the development of collagen and aids to rejuvenate and heal.
The Top Brands of Diabetes Skincare Products
Top 7 Diabetic Creams & Lotions Comparison Chart
| Product | SKU | Volume (Ounce) |
Price per Ounce | Key Ingredients | Pro Review Excerpts | Cons Review Excerpts |
| Gold Bond Ultimate Diabetics' | 4116705350 | 13 | Low | -Aloe -Vitamin E -Urea -Dimethicone -Petrolatum -Shea Butter -Hydralast -Jojoba Glycerin Avena Sativa |
-Not greasy -Moisturizes -Softens -Hydrates -Skin feels smooth -Treats chafing -Fixes rough spots -Stops itching -Fast-acting -No odor |
-Some shipping damage -Best-selling product with apparent counterfeits from foreign manufacturers -Beware of foreign copies |
| Borage DiabetiCare Foot | 40320 | 4.2 | High | -Aloe -Safflower -Jojoba -Borage -Dimethicone -Vitamin E -Shea Butter -Urea |
-Soothes dry feet -Works for my diabetes skin -Softens and smooths -Removes rough skin -Deep penetration -Non-greasy |
-Runny lotion -Liquifies |
| TriDerma Diabetes Foot Healing | 64025 | 2.2 | High | -Aloe -Urea -Lactic Acid -Squaline -Zinc -Avena Sativa -Shea Butter -Vitamin E |
-Quick action -Works for cracks -Smooths -Counteracts itching -Concentrated formula goes a long way |
-Caused rashes -Overpriced -No change to my condition -Not for severe conditions |
| Foot Miracle | 60656 | 32 | Low | -Coconut Oil -Urea |
-Very softening -Value sized -Good daily moisturizer -Pleasant scent -Calluses are gone -Eases discomfort |
-Cologne smell -Plunger does not work -A bit watery -Cocoa butter works better |
| Triderma Diabetic Skin Healing | 66025 | 2.2 | Average | -Allantoin -Dimethicone -Aloe -Oats -Shea Butter -Petrolatum -Zinc |
-Helps scars heal -Leaves skin soft -Helps to heal bruises -Love the natural ingredients -No burning or stinging |
-Feels greasy -Too heavy |
| Eucerin | 1244839 | 16 | Low | -Mineral Oil -Lanolin -Citric Acid |
-Easily soaks in -Not greasy -Use all over my body -Only takes a small dab -Works for rosacea -Easy application |
-Soupy solution -Too watery -Did not help my psoriasis -Burns -Stings |
| Lantiseptic | 0410 | 4 | Average | -Lanolin -Petrolatum -Beeswax |
-Heals dryness -Treats eczema -Treats fungus |
-Water separates from the formula in the tube |
Below are some other severe dry skin products that are popular diabetic treatments but did not make the top 10 list.
Summary
This article reviewed the top 10 products for preventing and treating dry diabetic skin. It presented each product's pros and cons, the ingredients, specifications, and supporting documents and videos if available. It provides a comparison chart highlighting the differences in cost, key components, and review excerpts presented in bullet points. Additionally, the article presents other notable severe dry skin products with links for more information. Armed with this knowledge, readers can make an informed decision about which diabetes skincare product to purchase.
Footnotes
- 1 Hampton, S., Sylvie Hampton is Tissue, and Viability Consultant Nurse. Skin changes and skin care for people with diabetes at the end of life. The Diabetic Foot Journal 18 (2015): 180-5. (Last Accessed January-25-2021)
- 2 Behm, B., et al. Skin signs in diabetes mellitus. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology 26.10 (2012): 1203-1211. (Last Accessed January-25-2021)
- 3 McMillan, Donald E. The effect of diabetes on blood flow properties. Diabetes 32.Supplement 2 (1983): 56-63. (Last Accessed January-25-2021)
- 4 Holowatz, Lacy A., and W. Larry Kenney. Peripheral mechanisms of thermoregulatory control of skin blood flow in aged humans. Journal of applied physiology 109.5 (2010): 1538-1544. (Last Accessed January-25-2021)
- 5 Piérard, Gérald E., et al. The skin landscape in diabetes mellitus. Focus on dermocosmetic management. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology 6 (2013): 127. (Last Accessed January-25-2021)
- 6 David, PascalineJohn, Meenakshi Yeola, and Ruchira Ankar. "Efficacy of Nursing Skin Care Protocol on Prevention of Skin Related Problems among Newly Diagnosed Diabetic Patients." Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International (2021): 1-8. (Last Accessed December-14-2021)
