Diabetes Skin
Conditions Treatment
in Phoenix, AZ

Living with diabetes can bring a variety of skin concerns that impact both comfort and confidence, including dryness, infections, slow-healing wounds, and persistent rashes. Patients often seek treatment to prevent complications, improve skin health, and restore confidence in their appearance. Our diabetes skin care services focus on addressing these challenges with personalized strategies that promote healing, reduce irritation, and support overall skin wellness.

Whether managing flare-ups or preventing long-term damage, Regency Specialties provides comprehensive care designed to meet the unique needs of individuals living with diabetes in Phoenix, AZ.

Table Of Contents

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition that affects the way the body uses glucose (sugar). We get glucose from the carbohydrates we eat, which are then converted into energy. Diabetes affects insulin, a hormone produced to help glucose be processed from the bloodstream into the body itself for energy.

Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that causes the body to be unable to produce insulin. The onset of type 1 diabetes is typically during childhood or adolescence.
Type 2 diabetes results from increased glucose (sugar) levels in the body over time, which leads to inefficient use of insulin, or insulin resistance. The onset of type 2 diabetes is typically in adulthood, and the risk increases with obesity.

Both types of diabetes increase the risk for eye complications, kidney disease, high blood pressure, neuropathy, and can even cause skin complications. There is no cure for type 1 diabetes, but type 2 diabetes can often be managed or improved with weight loss, healthy eating, and exercise. Please consult your primary care provider for management of the condition, while our professional team can assist with managing the skin manifestations.

Diabetes-Related Skin Conditions

Many skin conditions can be indicators of pre-diabetes or related to an existing diagnosis of diabetes. Many of these can be resolved or improved when your condition is well-controlled.

Acanthosis Nigricans

This is a brown/black velvety thickening of the skin on the nape of the neck, armpits, or groin, indicating elevated blood glucose levels. This is often a sign of pre-diabetes.

Skin Infections and Skin Tags

Diabetes impairs the immune system’s ability to fight infections. Therefore, frequent and recurrent skin infections can be an indication of uncontrolled diabetes. Although many people without diabetes may also have skin tags, an abundance of tags can be an indication of underlying diabetes.

Diabetic Dermopathy

Diabetic dermopathy may cause brown lines and dots, mostly on the shins of diabetic patients.

Necrobiosis Lipoidica

Necrobiosis lipoidica causes swollen, red, hard patches of itchy skin on the shins. This condition can come and go.

Blisters and Extremely Dry/Itchy Skin

Blisters on the skin can occur spontaneously in patients with diabetes. Extremely dry or itchy skin is also common, as high blood sugar levels can reduce moisture and damage nerves, making the skin more sensitive to irritation. Both conditions can increase the risk of infections and slow healing if not properly managed.

Diabetic Foot Ulcers (Open Sores and Wounds)

Those with diabetes may also often have open wounds and sores because, over time, diabetes can cause decreased blood flow and nerve damage, which makes it more difficult for the body to heal.

Xanthelasma and Eruptive Xanthomatosis

Xanthelasma is a yellow lump on the eyelids from high levels of cholesterol. Eruptive xanthomatosis causes small, reddish bumps that resemble pimples and appear throughout the body. They are often itchy and tender, resolving once the diabetes is well-controlled.

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Before & Afters

Our Expert Treatments for Diabetes-Related Skin Conditions

Topical Medications

Topical medications can help manage dry skin and other diabetes-related skin issues by moisturizing, reducing irritation, and promoting healing. These treatments are applied directly to affected areas to improve comfort and support overall skin health.

Oral Medications

Oral medications, including oral antibiotics, are used to treat infections that may arise from diabetes-related skin conditions. They help the body fight bacteria from the inside, preventing complications and supporting faster healing.

Wound Care

Wound care focuses on cleaning, protecting, and monitoring open sores or ulcers to prevent infection and promote proper healing. Specialized dressings and techniques help manage pressure and reduce the risk of complications.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy uses controlled freezing to treat certain skin lesions and growths. This treatment is effective in removing unwanted or problematic tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding skin.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy targets skin lesions, discoloration, and other diabetes-related skin conditions with precise light energy. This treatment can improve the appearance of affected areas while promoting healing and reducing discomfort.

Cauterization

Cauterization uses heat to remove or seal off problematic skin tissue and may involve mild burning sensations during the procedure. It is effective for treating lesions, skin tags, and other small skin growths while minimizing bleeding.

Surgical Removal of Skin Tags or Lesions

Surgical removal addresses persistent skin issues, including tags, growths, or lesions that do not respond to other treatments. This procedure provides a safe and effective solution for improving both skin health and appearance.

Your Appointment: What to Expect

During your appointment, our team will begin by reviewing your medical history to understand your overall health and any diabetes-related concerns. We recognize that the skin is the body’s largest organ, and changes in its appearance can provide important clues about your well-being. We will carefully examine your skin for warning signs of complications, allowing us to identify issues early. Early detection is crucial in preventing more severe problems and ensures that you have access to the most effective treatment options.

Throughout the visit, we will discuss personalized strategies to manage and improve your skin health, addressing both current concerns and future prevention.

Who Is At-Risk of Diabetes-Related Skin Conditions?

Individuals with diabetes or pre-diabetes may develop a skin condition when high blood sugar affects blood vessels, hair follicles, and overall skin health. Those at higher risk often experience warning signs, such as severe pain, itchy rash, scaly patches, or pus-filled lumps. Other risk factors include poor blood sugar control, a history of skin infections, and reduced circulation, which can make it harder for the skin to heal. Recognizing these symptoms early can help patients manage complications and protect their skin before more serious issues arise.

Benefits of Treating Diabetes Skin Conditions

Managing diabetes often involves staying attentive to various aspects of health, including skin care. Because the skin can reflect changes in overall wellness, addressing concerns early can make a significant difference in comfort and confidence. You can expect the following benefits from our treatment:

Provides symptom relief for itching, dryness, and irritation
Helps prevent infections and complications
Promotes faster healing of wounds and sores
Supports healthier skin appearance and texture
Improves comfort in daily life
Reduces risk of long-term damage to skin and underlying tissue
Increases confidence and overall well-being

Cost of Treating
Diabetes Skin
Conditions in
Phoenix, AZ

You can generally expect the cost of treating diabetes skin conditions in Phoenix, AZ, to start from approximately $100 to $400 for basic dermatology visits and wound‑care consultations without insurance. More advanced procedures, such as surgical removal of infected tissue, may run $500 or higher, depending on the severity and type of intervention. The final cost will vary based on factors like the complexity of your condition, the need for special dressings or supplies, and your insurance coverage.

Enhance Your Skin Health at Regency Specialties

Our team at Regency Specialties addresses a wide range of skin concerns, from common issues like cold sores and red rashes to rare conditions that require specialized care. We create personalized treatment plans designed to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and promote overall skin health. With a focus on both immediate relief and long-term wellness, patients can enjoy healthier, more resilient skin and improved comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it possible to eliminate diabetic ulcers?

While it may not always be possible to completely eliminate diabetic ulcers, proper care can significantly improve healing and reduce complications. Poor circulation and damage to skin cells increase the risk of ulcers, especially on pressure points, such as the soles of the feet. Early intervention is crucial, as more severe cases can become painful and may lead to infections or other complications.

Can diabetes cause both fungal infections and bacterial infections?

Yes, diabetes can increase the likelihood of both fungal and bacterial skin infections. People with diabetes are more prone to bacterial skin infections, and fungal issues like jock itch can develop when fungi overgrow on the skin. Proper monitoring and treatment help control these infections.

How can I prevent skin infections if I have diabetes?

To prevent skin infections, people with diabetes should pay special attention to skin folds, maintain good hygiene, and drink plenty of water to keep the skin healthy. Lifestyle changes, including balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and careful glucose management, can further reduce the risk of skin complications.

Can fungal infections spread to nearby areas?

Yes, fungal infections can spread to nearby areas, including the toes. Prompt treatment and proper hygiene help prevent the infection from spreading to the surrounding skin.

How to choose the best provider for diabetes skin conditions?

To receive the best possible diabetes skin conditions treatment, Phoenix patients should seek board-certified dermatologists who have experience managing diabetes-related skin issues. Choosing a provider with specialized knowledge ensures accurate diagnosis, effective treatment options, and ongoing support for skin health.

Diabetes Skin Conditions Treatment in Phoenix, AZ