Skin Signs of Diabetes: There are going to be 100 million diabetes patients in India, never ignore these 7 signs on the skin.

News Topical, Digital Desk : The Economic Survey 2025-26 identified diabetes as a major emerging health risk in India. Diabetes has become the biggest NCD challenge in the country. Approximately 90 million adults are affected, and it is estimated that this number could cross 100 million by 2026. People often consider symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision to be signs of diabetes. However, some visible changes on the skin can also be early signs of blood sugar imbalance. However, there may be other reasons behind these symptoms. Let us tell you about 7 of its symptoms 

7 common skin signs of diabetes

Diabetic Dermopathy

Small, round, brown, or red spots may appear on the calves. These don't cause pain or itching, but they can be a sign of changes in blood vessels. According to the Journal of Cardiovascular Disease Research, skin changes associated with damage to small blood vessels and nerves have been found in more than 25 percent of diabetes patients.

Acanthosis nigricans - Dark, thick, velvety patches on the neck, armpits, thighs, or finger joints can be a sign of insulin resistance. According to the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, this is a key skin sign associated with obesity and diabetes

delayed wound healing

If injuries or wounds don't heal quickly, it can result in impaired blood flow and nerve damage. According to the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, impaired immune cells and decreased tissue repair can lead to chronic wounds, especially diabetic foot ulcers.

Recurrent fungal or bacterial infections

Elevated blood sugar weakens immunity, which can lead to frequent fungal and bacterial infections, according to the Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology.

Itchy and dry skin

High blood pressure (hyperglycemia) draws fluid from the body, which can cause dry and itchy skin. Damage to small blood vessels reduces sweating and oil secretion. Frontiers in Medicine (2025) also lists this as a sign of diabetes.

Necrobiosis lipoidica

This rare but serious condition can cause shiny reddish-brown or yellow spots to appear on the calves. The skin may become thin and veins may become visible. According to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, it is more common in patients with long-term diabetes

Vitiligo

In this condition, some areas of the skin become discolored and turn white. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, so vitiligo is more common in such patients. In type 2, it may be associated with metabolic stress and immune dysfunction. The Institute for Cutaneous Manifestations in Diabetes and the ICMR also consider skin examinations essential for diabetes control

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