2. Avoid Tanning and Tattoos
Any increase in skin pigment as a result of tanning is a sign of damage. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can cause dry skin, wrinkles and dark spots. People with diabetes tend to have dry skin, increasing the risk of damage from the sun’s rays. Dry skin can lead to cracking and peeling which allows bacteria to enter the body and cause infection.
Tattooing also puts you at risk for infection – particularly HIV and hepatitis, if you are exposed to unclean tools, practices, or products. Also, if your diabetes is in poor control, a tattoo might not heal properly.
Tight blood glucose – also called blood sugar, control is crucial to help protect your skin from sun damage and facilitate healing if damage occurs. The American Diabetes Association recommends an A1C score less than 7 percent or an estimated average glucose of 154 mg/dl.