From the Guidelines
Lubriderm lotion can be an effective moisturizer for dry, cracked feet, but for individuals with diabetes, a more comprehensive approach to foot care is necessary to prevent ulcers and other complications, as recommended by the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) 1. When using Lubriderm for dry feet, apply a generous amount to clean, dry feet once or twice daily, focusing on particularly dry areas like heels and soles. For best results, apply after showering or bathing when skin is slightly damp, and consider wearing cotton socks afterward to lock in moisture.
Key Considerations for Diabetic Foot Care
- Regular foot examinations by a healthcare professional are crucial for early detection of high-risk foot conditions 1.
- Integrated foot care, including professional foot care, structured education, and adequate footwear, can help prevent foot ulcers in individuals with diabetes 1.
- Individuals with diabetes should be educated on proper foot self-care, including daily inspections, proper nail and skin care, and selection of appropriate footwear 1.
Additional Recommendations
- For severely dry or cracked feet, apply a thicker layer of Lubriderm before bedtime and wear socks overnight.
- Consider using specialized foot creams or seeking medical treatment if you have severe cracking, fungal infections, or diabetic foot concerns.
- Regular application of Lubriderm can help maintain soft, healthy foot skin, especially during dry weather or if you frequently wear closed shoes. It is essential to note that while Lubriderm can provide moisturizing benefits, it is only one part of a comprehensive approach to foot care, particularly for individuals with diabetes. By following the recommendations outlined by the IWGDF and incorporating Lubriderm into your foot care routine, you can help maintain healthy foot skin and prevent more severe complications 1.
From the Research
Lubriderm for Foot
- Lubriderm is a moisturizer that can be used to treat dry skin (xerosis) on the feet 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Xerosis is characterized by dry, cracked, and fissured skin, and can be diagnosed as xerosis, eczema craquelé, dyshidrotic eczema, or asteatotic eczema 2.
- Studies have shown that moisturizers, including Lubriderm, can improve skin hydration and reduce symptoms of xerosis 3, 4, 6.
- A study comparing the efficacy of different moisturizers found that all test agents, including Lubriderm, significantly improved clinical symptoms of xerosis, and that consistent and regular moisturizer use is more important than the particular formulation 6.
- Another study found that a topical formulation containing glyceryl glucoside, natural moisturizing factors, and ceramide was effective in treating xerosis, and that this formulation could potentially be used to treat dry skin on the feet 4.
- The choice of moisturizer for xerosis should be based on the individual's symptoms, such as scaling, fissures, erythema, and pruritus, as well as the site affected and patient age 5.