Sugar spots, also known as diabetic dermopathy in medical terms, are oval red spots of about half to one centimeters large that occur especially on the shiny legs. These spots are more common in people over 50 years and those who have had diabetes for a long time.
Cause:
Diabetes can cause changes in small blood vessels, which can lead to skin problems such as diabetic dermopathy. However, the exact cause of these spots is not yet fully understood. Researchers have various theories, such as thermal damage around the sites, delayed wound healing due to reduced blood flow and nerve degeneration.
There is also a possible relationship between diabetic dermopathy and other diabetes complications, such as eye, nerve or kidney damage.
Symptoms:
The spots are initially pale pink, brown or purple and can feel slightly scaly. Over time they become brown and take on a round or oval shape. These spots are usually small, less than one centimeter in diameter, but may get larger. They may resemble age spots, especially if they occur in groups.
In rare cases, diabetic dermopathy may also appear on other parts of the body, such as higher on the thighs or on the forearms or sides of the feet. The condition itself is harmless and does not cause any additional symptoms or pain.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for diabetic dermopathy because the spots themselves are harmless and do not cause symptoms. The condition usually disappears by themselves, but healing time may vary per person. However, controlling blood sugar is important not only to control diabetic skin disorders but also to prevent other diabetes complications.
If the spots are perceived as disturbing, they can be covered with make-up. In dry or scaly areas, the use of moisturizing cream can help to relieve symptoms and prevent spread of the spots. In addition, studies have shown that lotions containing ingredients such as collagen or glycerin can make changes in skin tone less visible.