Use of Moisturizers for Diabetic Foot Care
Yes, using emollients/moisturizers is strongly recommended for diabetic foot care in at-risk patients, and while Aveeno (oat kernel extract) is not specifically studied, any moisturizer that hydrates dry skin and maintains skin barrier function is appropriate based on current guidelines. 1
Guideline-Based Recommendations
The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) 2023 guidelines provide a strong recommendation that patients with diabetes at risk of foot ulceration (IWGDF risk categories 1-3) should be educated to use emollients to moisturize dry skin as part of daily foot care. 1 This recommendation applies to all at-risk diabetic patients, not just those with existing ulcers.
Key Components of the Moisturizer Recommendation:
Daily application of emollients should be encouraged as part of comprehensive foot self-care that includes washing feet daily with careful drying (particularly between toes) and examining feet for any lesions. 1
The rationale is that moisturizers help maintain skin barrier function and prevent xerosis (dry skin), which is a defective skin barrier that predisposes to water loss, hyperkeratosis, and inflammation—all of which increase ulceration risk. 2
This is considered basic foot hygiene that enables early detection of pre-ulcerative lesions and contributes to preventing foot ulcers, despite limited direct evidence linking moisturizer use to ulcer prevention. 1
Evidence Supporting Moisturizer Use
Clinical Benefits:
Xerosis (dry skin) is extremely common in diabetic feet and increases the risk of complications including infection and ulceration. 3
A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that moisturizers containing humectants (10% urea and 4% lactic acid) significantly reduced xerosis severity in diabetic feet compared to vehicle alone (P < 0.01), with benefits persisting even after discontinuation. 3
Topical agents including emollients and urea-based creams have been found effective in managing pruritus, xerosis, and other skin complications associated with diabetes. 4
Mechanism of Action:
Moisturizers improve skin barrier dysfunction by preventing water loss and reducing hyperkeratosis. 2
Products containing urea and essential ceramides have demonstrated specific benefits for dry/itchy diabetic skin. 2
Regarding Aveeno Specifically
While Aveeno (oat kernel extract) is not specifically mentioned in diabetic foot care guidelines, the recommendation is for "emollients" broadly—meaning any moisturizer that hydrates dry skin is acceptable. 1 The key is consistent daily application rather than a specific brand.
Practical Considerations:
Oat-based moisturizers like Aveeno are generally gentle and well-tolerated, making them reasonable choices for diabetic skin care. 2
The most important factor is patient adherence—choosing a moisturizer that the patient will actually use daily is more important than the specific formulation. 2
Products specifically designed for diabetic skin care often contain urea (which has the strongest evidence) and ceramides, but any emollient that maintains skin hydration is beneficial. 2, 3
Critical Implementation Points
What to Educate Patients About:
Apply moisturizer daily after washing and carefully drying feet, especially between toes. 1
Avoid applying moisturizer between the toes to prevent maceration and fungal infection risk. 5
Combine moisturizer use with daily foot inspection to identify any pre-ulcerative lesions early. 1, 6
If any lesion is detected, immediately contact a healthcare professional during normal working hours or at earliest possibility outside working hours. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
Failing to educate patients about the importance of daily moisturizer application as part of comprehensive foot care. 1
Neglecting to emphasize that moisturizer use must be combined with appropriate footwear, daily inspection, and professional foot care for high-risk patients. 6, 7
Not recognizing that fungal infections are very common in diabetic feet and can be exacerbated by excessive moisture—patients should be monitored for fungal disease. 5
Integration with Comprehensive Foot Care
Moisturizer use is just one component of integrated diabetic foot care that should include: 6
- Appropriate footwear that accommodates foot shape and deformities
- Professional foot treatment including regular examination by qualified healthcare professionals
- Structured education about self-care behaviors
- Daily foot inspection by the patient or caregiver
High-risk patients should be monitored every 1-3 months and moderate-risk patients every 3-6 months by healthcare professionals. 8