7 Best Lotions & Creams for Diabetic Dry Skin for 2023

 

 

Updated: January 17, 2023

 

 

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

 

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

html icon    Gold Bond Ultimate Diabetics' 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

Cons

 

  None


#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

Cons

 

  Small Container Size Requires More Frequent Purchases

  No Supporting Documents or Video

  High Price



#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

Cons

 

  Requires Frequent Application

  Abbreviated Ingredients List

  No Supporting Documents or Video

  High Price


#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

Cons

 

  No Supporting Documentation or Video

  Not Specifically Formulated for Diabetes

  Fragrance


#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

Cons

 

  No Supporting Documents or Video

 


#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

pdf logo    Material Safety Data Sheet for Eucerin Original Lotion

 

 

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

Cons

 

  Not Specifically Formulated for Diabetics


#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

pdf logo    Lantiseptic Drug Facts and Ingredients

html icon    Lantiseptic US National Library of Medicine Listing

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

Cons

 

  Formula Contents Tend to Liquify in Shipment and on the Shelf

  No Supporting Videos

  Not Specifically Formulated for Diabetes


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 Brands

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.

Aquaphor

Cetaphil

Aveeno

Dimethicone

 

 

 

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