November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to focus on the unique foot care needs of those living with diabetes. Foot maintenance can significantly impact the overall health of individuals with diabetes. This month, we're highlighting pedicures specifically designed with diabetic foot health in mind. 

The Impact of Diabetes on Your Feet

Diabetes affects multiple systems in the body, but the circulatory and nervous systems have the greatest impact on foot health. Poor circulation makes the skin on the feet and legs drier and more prone to infection, and in severe cases, ulcers. Diabetics often have cold feet due to these circulatory issues.

Diabetic neuropathy - a condition that causes numbness, tingling, and burning sensations in the feet - is a term increasingly known among diabetics and foot care professionals. The loss of sensation and sensitivity to temperature requires careful attention, as it increases vulnerability to injury and infection. With proper support, many of these issues can be managed with an appropriate pedicure treatment.

Common Foot Conditions for Diabetics

Some key indicators of diabetic foot health problems include:

• Dry, scaly skin
• Changes in skin colour, such as discolouration
• Build-up of dead skin around the nail folds
• Increased callus formation on pressure points
• Parchment-like skin
• Minor infections around the foot

Due to their susceptibility to damage, it’s critical for individuals with diabetes to maintain diligent foot care routines to prevent further complications.

Pedicuring the Diabetic Client

Footlogix® Client Consultation

Before beginning a pedicure, observe the client’s feet thoroughly and record findings on the Footlogix® Pedicure Information Form. If cuts, sores, ulcers, or infections are present, refer the client to a healthcare professional.

Footlogix® Foot Soak

This pH-balanced solution gently cleanses and hydrates the skin, preparing it for the pedicure. A Diabetic client should have their feet soaked for no more than 3-5 minutes.

Footlogix® Callus Softener

Apply liberally to any calluses, allowing the formula to soak in for 3-5 minutes. Also, spray it across the nails to remove dry skin build-up around the nail fold. Use the Footlogix® Stainless Steel Pedicure File to gently reduce calluses on the heels and balls of the feet. Finish by spraying the Callus Softener over the entire foot to add moisture and remove debris.

Footlogix® DD Cream Mousse

This lightweight mousse locks moisture into the skin, combating dryness and flakiness. It’s ideal for diabetics, those with atopic dermatitis, and individuals with sensitive skin. Ideal for nighttime care due to its anti-aging and regenerative properties.

Footlogix® Massage Formula

Complete the pedicure with a gentle foot and leg massage using 2-3 pumps per foot. The non-occlusive formula allows the skin to breathe, making it safe for diabetic clients.

Frequency of Footlogix® Pedicures

Diabetic clients should receive a pedicure every four weeks. Help your client's keep track of appointments with the Footlogix® At-Home Care pad, and offer Footlogix® products to give their feet the attention they deserve at home.

Diabetes Awareness Month Lives

Monday 18th November at 6pm.

REGISTER HERE

Join DUET Diabetes on a very special LIVE in support of Diabetes Awareness month...

Diabetic Footcare Advice for Beauty Professionals with DUET Diabetes. Presented by Lynne Reedman, Founder and Service Lead at DUET, and Gareth Hicks, Podiatrist and Educator at DUET.

The webinar aims to equip Beauty and Footcare professionals with the basic knowledge on how to identify and understand diabetic foot concerns, what the do's and don'ts are and where to sign post them for further treatment.

Being equipped with this vital knowledge can literally save limbs and lives!