Background An evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of two readily available over-the-counter cosmetic products used in the treatment of cracked heels on people with diabetes mellitus.
Method An aqueous cream and 25% urea cream were randomly allocated to the right and left foot of each participant.
Products were applied twice-daily for 2 weeks. The effectiveness of each product was assessed using corneometry,
the Xerosis Assessment Scale (XAS), and a self-perception questionnaire. Results 25 people with type 2
diabetes and moderate foot xerosis were included. The mean corneometer values revealed no significant
differences in skin hydration between the products (p>0.05). A clinical improvement in skin hydration was
shown by the XAS scores and mean self-perception questionnaire scores. Conclusions The results support
the daily use of emollients for improving xerosis in the diabetic foot. Further research is indicated to assess
the effectiveness and safety of urea-based emollients for the treatment of xerosis.