From the Guidelines
Diabetics should not put lotion or ointment between their toes because it can lead to excess moisture, increasing the risk of fungal infections, as recommended by the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) guidelines 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The IWGDF guidelines emphasize the importance of proper foot care in preventing foot ulcers in diabetic patients, including daily washing and drying of the feet, especially between the toes 1.
- Applying lotion or ointment between the toes can create a moist environment that fosters the growth of fungi and bacteria, which can lead to infections 1.
- Diabetic patients often have compromised immune systems and reduced sensation in their feet, making them more susceptible to infections and serious complications 1.
Recommendations for Diabetic Foot Care
- Keep the spaces between the toes clean and dry by gently patting them with a soft towel after bathing.
- Apply lotion to the tops and bottoms of the feet only, avoiding the spaces between the toes, to moisturize dry skin.
- Perform daily foot inspections using a mirror if necessary to detect problems early before they become severe.
- Follow the IWGDF guidelines for proper foot care, including regular washing, drying, and inspection of the feet, as well as avoiding barefoot walking and wearing proper footwear 1.
From the Research
Reasons to Avoid Lotion or Ointment Between Toes for Diabetics
- Diabetics are more prone to fungal infections, such as tinea pedis, due to disrupted skin integrity 2, 3
- Applying lotion or ointment between the toes can create a warm, moist environment that fosters fungal growth 4, 5
- Fungal infections can lead to bacterial superinfections, which can be severe in diabetic patients 2
- Topical antifungal agents are usually effective in treating fungal infections, but diabetic patients may require oral therapy for more extensive or resistant infections 2, 3
- It is essential to keep the area between the toes dry and clean to prevent fungal infections, rather than applying lotion or ointment 4, 5
- Some antifungal creams may contain allergenic ingredients, which can cause allergic contact dermatitis in some individuals 6