Your skin is your body’s first line of defense against infection and injury. For people with diabetes, vein problems, or poor circulation, even a small cut or blister can turn into a serious wound if it’s not cared for properly . That’s why protecting your skin and treating little problems early is so important.

By building a daily skin care routine, you can greatly reduce the chance of wounds and complications.

Tips:

• Check your skin every day: Take a moment each day to look over your skin from head to toe – especially your feet, ankles, and between your toes, since these areas are prone to problems . If you can’t easily see the bottoms of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone to help. Early detection of a cut, blister, or red spot means you can address it before it worsens.
  
  
• Keep skin clean and moisturized: Gently wash your skin with lukewarm (not hot) water and a mild soap or cleanser – hot water and harsh soaps can dry out your skin. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel (don’t rub). Apply a moisturizer daily to prevent dryness and cracking, but avoid putting lotion between your toes (too much moisture there can encourage infection).
  
  
• Wear shoes and socks – no going barefoot: Protect your feet from cuts and scratches. Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes and clean, dry socks at all times . Even at home, it’s best to wear socks or slippers instead of going barefoot. Also, check inside your shoes each day for small pebbles or rough edges that could hurt your feet .
  
  
• Treat cuts and blisters promptly: If you do get a small cut, sore, or blister, take action right away. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment (if recommended by your doctor), and cover it with a clean bandage. Don’t leave wounds open to air – keeping them covered and moist helps them heal faster and safer . Change the bandage daily and watch for any signs of infection as it heals. (And remember, for safety, do not try to trim your own calluses or ingrown nails – let your provider handle those).