A long existing diabetes mellitus type II is often associated with a number of skin changes. Xerosis Cutis is the most common skin alteration. The risk of diabetics of developing a foot ulcer is estimated to be 15%. Very dry and cracked skin represents an additional risk factor, so that adequate skin care is a widely recommended intervention in diabetic patients. But there are only few studies investigating the skin barrier structure and function in diabetic patients. Available study results seem to suggest, that for instance sebum content, stratum corneum hydration, and pH are associated with Diabetes mellitus.~The overall aims of this study are to compare the structure and function of dry to very dry and cracked foot skin between diabetic and nondiabetic subjects and to evaluate the effects of two cosmetic leave-on products on dry and fissured diabetic foot skin.~Specific issues are:~Are there any differences between the morphological and functional characteristics of dry to very dry and cracked skin foot between diabetic and nondiabetic subjects? What are the effects of a 4-week once daily application of an intensive care foot ointment (urea 10% foot ointment) or foot lotion (10% Urea foot lotion) on the skin barrier and on clinical signs of dryness and fissures?
The overall aims of this study are to compare the structure and function of dry to very dry and cracked foot skin between diabetic and nondiabetic subjects and to evaluate the effects of two cosmetic leave-on products on dry and fissured diabetic foot skin.~Specific issues are:~Are there any differences between the morphological and functional characteristics of dry to very dry and cracked skin foot between diabetic and nondiabetic subjects? What are the effects of a 4-week once daily application of an intensive care foot ointment (urea 10% foot ointment) or foot lotion (10% Urea foot lotion) on the skin barrier and on clinical signs of dryness and fissures?