In April 2018 researchers from Belgium and France published the results of their study to assess the reliability of blood glucose measurements when body lotions are used. 12 adult individuals with diabetes were included in the study. Blood glucose levels were measured before application, immediately after, plus 5, 30 and 60 minutes after applications of sweet almond oil, corticosteroid cream and hydroquinone-containing body lotion. The blood glucose levels were assessed using a finger following the application of body lotion and compared to that from a “clean” finger. Results showed that there was a significant increase in blood glucose levels immediately and at 5 minutes, 30 minutes and 60 minutes after the application of a hydroquinone-containing body lotion when compared to the level obtained from the clean finger. No increase was seen following the use of the corticosteroid cream or sweet almond oil 5, 30 and 60 minutes after application.
Omengue AM et al. Effect of Body Lotions on Capillary Blood Glucose Measurement – Interference of Hydroquinone-Containing Body Lotion with Capillary Glucose Measurement. Eur Endocrinol. 2018 Apr;14(1):44-46