Diabetics are more likely to have skin problems than non-diabetics.  Diabetics can get some problems that non-diabetics can get such as bacterial and fungal infections.  Then there are others that occur most often in people with diabetes, such as diabetic dermopathy and digital sclerosis.
 

BACTERIAL INFECTIONS

Bacterial infections that diabetics get more easily are styes, boils and carbuncles.  All three of these infections appear as painful, red, pus-filled lumps.  A stye is an infected gland of the eyelid.  A boil is an infected skin gland or hair root.  A carbuncle is a cluster of boils.  Boils and carbuncles appear most often at the back of your neck, armpits, groin, or buttocks. If you think you have any
of these you should see your doctor.

FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Three fungal infections that diabetics get most often are jock itch, athlete's foot and ringworm.

Jock itch appears as a red, itchy area that will spread from your genitals outward over the inside of your thighs.  Jock itch is more common in men than in women.

When athlete's foot occurs the skin between your toes will become itchy and sore.  It may also crack, peel or blister.

Ringworm is identified by ring-shaped, red scaly patches that can itch or blister.  Ringworm can appear on the feet, groin, trunk, scalp or nails.

DIABETIC DERMOPATHY

Diabetic dermopathy can affect about 60 percent of men who have diabetes, and about 30 percent of women who have diabetes, who are over the age of 50.  It causes brown or red scaly patches on the front of the legs.  Diabetic dermopathy isn't harmful and doesn't need to be treated.

DIGITAL SCLEROSIS

Digital Sclerosis can affect about 35 percent of people with diabetes. The word "digital" refers to your fingers or toes.  The word "sclerosis" means hardening.  This condition causes the skin on your toes, fingers, and hands to become thick and tight.  They may begin to look waxy or shiny.  Sclerosis
can also cause aching and stiffness in your fingers.

If your blood glucose levels come down to more normal levels it may slow or delay this condition.  It may also be treated with pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the aching.
 

GOOD SKIN CARE TIPS

There are some things you can do to try to keep your skin in good condition.  These are:

a)   Keep diabetes managed as best as you can

b)   Keep your skin dry and clean.  Don't use hot water since this can dry out your skin.

c)   Use moisturizing soap and lotions on the dry parts of your skin.

d)   Protect your skin from the sun.

It may be best not to use over-the-counter preparations to treat your skin problems since they can cause harm if you have other diabetes complications such as neuropathy (you may not feel certain preparations burning your skin, etc...)