How to Treat Calluses and Corns

Calluses and corns are a common problem for many people. They can be painful, unsightly, and hard to treat. Fortunately there is light at the end of the tunnel as you will soon learn how to treat calluses and corns! We've got all the information you need below so keep on reading!

What Are Corns and Calluses?

One of the most common foot complaints is calluses and corns. Calluses and corns are thickened, hardened skin areas that develop from friction or pressure. Calluses and corns naturally develop to protect the skin beneath them.

Calluses can form anywhere there is friction. The skin's bone pressure can cause corns. They can be found on the sides and tops of the toes as well as the balls of the feet. Corns can either be dry and hard or soft and mushy. Corns can be caused by arthritis and poorly-fitting footwear.

If you notice these conditions forming on your feet, there are many things you can do at home to treat them before they become worse. Treating early will help prevent further complications such as infection or bleeding. 

One way to treat corns and calluses at home is using an over-the-counter corn remover product like Dr Scholls corn removers. These products contain salicylic acid which softens hard skin.

How to Treat Calluses and Corns

For those who are constantly on their feet, calluses and corns can be the bane of your existence. These thick patches of skin make it difficult to walk sometimes, not to mention that they're often painful!

Dermatologists recommend these tips to treat calluses and corns:

1. Soak the corns or calluses. You can do this in warm water for at least five to ten minutes, or until the skin becomes soft.

2. Use a pumice to file the callus or corn. Dip the stone in warm water and then gently file the callus or corn. To remove any skin that is not being used, use circular motions or sideways motions.

3. Avoid removing too much skin. This could lead to bleeding and infection.

4. Use a moisturizing cream or lotion to treat the affected area every day. Search for creams or lotions with salicylic acid or ammonium lactate or urea. These ingredients can gradually soften calluses and hard corns.

5. Use padding. You can protect your calluses against further irritation by cutting a piece moleskin (available at your local pharmacy) into two halves and placing it around the callus. You can protect a corn from coming into contact with your shoes by covering it with adhesive pads in the donut shape - also available at local drugstores.

6. Make sure your shoes fit properly. Shop for shoes in the evening, when your feet are slightly swelling. Also, have a clerk measure your feet and recommend shoes that fit comfortably.

7. Trim your toenails. Too long toenails can push up against your shoes, creating a corn. Keep your toenails trimmed to relieve this pressure.

Calluses and corns usually disappear when the pressure or friction that caused them stop. If you're unsure what's causing your callus or corn, or if it is extremely painful or you have diabetes, consult a doctor, dermatologist, or podiatrist.

Read more about foot care tools here: https://diyfeet.com/diy-foot-care-tools