Medically Reviewed by: Scientific Advisory Board

Managing diabetes involves keeping blood sugar levels under control, and for many, that includes proper care of their feet. People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot problems due to nerve damage and poor circulation. To avoid serious complications, it's crucial to provide proper care and attention to your feet by using diabetic foot cream.

Specialized foot creams are designed to address the specific needs of individuals with diabetes. These creams typically contain ingredients that help soothe and repair dry, cracked skin, reduce inflammation, and promote better circulation. With consistent use, diabetic foot creams play a key role in maintaining healthy, comfortable feet.

In addition to using a diabetic foot cream, we recommend incorporating a daily foot care routine that includes close inspection of the feet for any changes or signs of injury, keeping the feet clean and dry, and wearing well-fitted, comfortable shoes. By taking these steps, you can improve your overall foot health and keep your feet in great shape despite the challenges of diabetes.

Managing Diabetic Foot Issues

If you're living with diabetes, it's crucial to take care of your feet. Diabetes can cause nerve damage, slow healing, and infection, leading to severe complications if foot problems aren't properly managed. In this section, we'll discuss the importance of selecting an appropriate diabetic foot cream and offer some helpful tips for managing diabetic foot issues.

Diabetic foot creams play a vital role in foot care routine for people with diabetes. They're designed to address a range of issues such as:

• Dryness
• Cracking
• Inflammation
• Infection prevention

When choosing a diabetic foot cream, look for one that contains ingredients like urea, lactic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids. These ingredients help to gently exfoliate dry skin and promote skin renewal, leaving your feet soft and smooth. Additionally, check for the inclusion of antimicrobial agents to minimize the risk of infections.

Apart from selecting the right foot cream, there are additional tips for managing diabetic foot issues effectively:

• Wash your feet daily using mild soap and warm water. Be sure to dry them completely, especially between the toes.
• Keep your feet moisturized with an appropriate diabetic foot cream, but avoid application between the toes.
• Inspect your feet frequently for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Contact a healthcare professional if you notice anything unusual.
• Wear socks specifically designed for diabetes
• Trim your toenails straight across and file any sharp edges to avoid ingrown toenails.
• Avoid wearing tight shoes or those that cause friction or pressure spots.

By following these tips and incorporating a high-quality diabetic foot cream into your daily routine, you'll be well-equipped to manage diabetic foot issues and maintain foot health. Remember, it's crucial to address any concerns promptly and consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and guidance. Investing time and effort in foot care can help prevent serious complications and keep your feet healthy in the long run.

Ingredients to Look for in Creams

Searching for the perfect foot cream is essential when dealing with diabetes. We've compiled a list of ingredients that can provide relief, moisturize your feet, and promote healthy skin. Choosing a cream with some or all of these components is a smart move when trying to maintain the wellbeing of your diabetic feet.

Urea is a crucial ingredient for diabetic foot creams. It's a powerful moisturizer that softens and hydrates dry, cracked skin. High urea concentration creams, such as those containing 10%-40% urea, are especially effective in treating severely dry skin; however, we suggest starting with lower concentrations to see how your skin responds.

Lactic acid can also help in managing diabetic feet by exfoliating dead skin cells and stimulating the production of natural moisturizers in the skin. It's found in many foot creams and often used in combination with urea for superior moisture retention.

Look for foot creams that contain soothing ingredients to alleviate discomfort, such as:

• Aloe vera
• Chamomile
• Green tea extract
• Shea butter

These ingredients are full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, providing a calming effect on irritated skin.

One essential ingredient to watch for is alpha-lipoic acid (ALA). It's an antioxidant that not only helps reduce inflammation but can also improve nerve function and alleviate the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.

Foot creams containing gylcolic acid can further enhance the benefits of the above-listed ingredients. This powerful exfoliant works to slough away dead skin cells, leaving your feet looking smooth, fresh, and healthy.

Finally, don't forget about the importance of barrier preservation. We recommend choosing foot creams that include ingredients such as:

• Lanolin
• Glycerin
• Petrolatum

These components help seal in moisture and act as a barrier between your skin and potentially irritating substances.

Product Selection Chart

With the right foot cream, you can keep your feet well-moisturized, comfortable, and healthy. We hope that this list of ingredients helps you find the most suitable foot cream to address your unique needs as someone with diabetes.

Diabetic Foot Creams to Consider

If you're searching for the best diabetic foot creams, we're here to help. We've compiled a list of top foot creams to consider that are specifically designed to address the unique needs of those with diabetes. These creams offer soothing relief and can help prevent complications associated with diabetic feet. So, let's dive right into these top diabetic foot creams and what they have to offer.

1. Eucerin Advanced Repair Foot Cream

Eucerin's Advanced Repair Foot Cream is a popular choice among people with diabetes. This cream is formulated with ceramides and natural moisturizing factors that help to protect the skin's barrier and lock in moisture. Key benefits include:

• Fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin
• Non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly
• Provides fast relief for dry, rough feet

2. Gold Bond Ultimate Diabetics' Dry Skin Relief Foot Cream

Another top contender is Gold Bond's Ultimate Diabetics' Dry Skin Relief Foot Cream. This cream is specifically designed to address the needs of diabetic feet, ensuring optimal hydration and protection. Key features are:

• Clinically tested, hypoallergenic, and formulated without harsh chemicals
• Moisturizes and smooths rough, cracked skin
• Offers soothing relief with aloe vera and vitamin E

3. O'Keeffe's Healthy Feet Foot Cream

O'Keeffe's Healthy Feet Foot Cream has garnered rave reviews for its effectiveness in treating dry, cracked feet. This cream's concentrated formula works by creating a protective barrier on the skin, trapping moisture, and promoting the skin's natural repair process. Benefits include:

• Non-greasy and unscented
• Works quickly to improve the appearance of dry skin
• Can be used on all skin types, including diabetic feet

4. Flexitol Diabetic Foot Balm

Flexitol's Diabetic Foot Balm is a deeply penetrating formula that targets rough, dry, and cracked skin associated with diabetic feet. This balm's key ingredients, such as urea and glycerin, help to hydrate and restore the skin's natural balance. Some notable features include:

• Fragrance-free, non-greasy formula
• Suitable for daily use
• Offers efficient hydration, reducing discomfort from dryness

Remember that, while foot creams can help protect and moisturize the skin, it's essential for individuals with diabetes to practice good foot care. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider about incorporating the right foot cream into your daily foot care routine. With proper care and the right foot cream, you can take the necessary steps toward healthier and happier feet.

References, Studies and Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/healthy-feet.html

More About Circufiber.com and Healthcare disclaimer:

Always consult your physician before beginning any program. This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you experience any pain or difficulty, stop and consult your healthcare provider. Circufiber.com socks are clinically proven to improve micro-circulation in feet and lower extremities in people with Diabetes. 

More Author Information:

Dr. Capozzi is a board-certified foot surgeon through the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Wound Management and Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He completed a three-year residency program in Foot and Ankle Reconstructive Surgery at St. Francis Hospital & Medical Center in Hartford, CT in 2010. Dr. Capozzi is a board-certified Wound Specialist® granted by the American Academy of Wound Management. He is also board-certified in Foot Surgery through the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery.