From the FDA Drug Label
Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes Directions for itching of skin irritation, inflammation, and rashes: adults and children 2 years of age and older: apply to affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily Purpose Anti-itch
The treatment for facial macular itching in diabetic patients is hydrocortisone (TOP), which can be applied to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily for adults and children 2 years of age and older. However, children under 2 years of age should ask a doctor. It is also important to note that other uses of this product should only be under the advice and supervision of a doctor 1, 1, 1.
- Key points:
- Apply hydrocortisone (TOP) to the affected area
- Not more than 3 to 4 times daily
- Ask a doctor for children under 2 years of age
- Use under the advice and supervision of a doctor for other uses.
From the Research
The treatment for facial macular itching in diabetic patients should prioritize gentle skin care with mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers, as well as topical agents such as emollients and urea-based creams, as recommended by the most recent study 2. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and itching while maintaining skin barrier function.
- Gentle skin care is essential, using mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers regularly to maintain skin barrier function.
- Topical agents such as emollients and urea-based creams can be effective in managing pruritus, xerosis, and other complications associated with diabetes, as suggested by 2.
- It's also important to maintain good glycemic control, as hyperglycemia can worsen skin conditions in diabetic patients.
- Avoiding hot water and harsh soaps that can exacerbate dryness and itching is also crucial.
- If the condition doesn't improve within 2-3 weeks of treatment, further evaluation is necessary to rule out diabetic dermopathy, necrobiosis lipoidica, or fungal infections which are more common in diabetic patients. The connection between diabetes and skin manifestations relates to microvascular changes, immune dysfunction, and altered skin barrier function that occur with chronic hyperglycemia, as discussed in 3 and 2.
- Education on skin care is vital, and patients should be provided with guidance on maintaining healthy skin, as emphasized by 2.
- The use of specifically designed diabetic skin care products containing anti-aging ingredients, urea, and essential ceramides can also be beneficial, as mentioned in 3.