Calluses have many different causes, says the American College of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics and Medicine. They most often form on the bottom--or the ball--of the foot due to pressure caused by shoes that fit improperly, as well as poorly-padded shoes, bone spurs, hammer toes and flat feet. Calluses can also form on your hands if you do manual labor, even if you wear protective gloves. Home remedies for calluses are in no short supply, but the ACFAOM urges you to consider seeing a podiatrist, which will giver you better, speedier results than self-care in most cases. Never attempt to remove calluses without a doctor's approval if you have diabetes or a circulatory disorder, cautions the Mayo Clinic. Prevention should be your primary goal in callus management.
Step 1
Soak the affected hand or foot. Use warm, soapy water. This softens up the skin, making the callus easier to remove, says the Mayo Clinic.
Step 2
Remove thickened skin. You may choose to do this while you're still soaking in the bathtub or after you get out and dry off. Use a pumice stone or washcloth to gently abrade the callus. The ACFAOM indicates that some people report good results with a callus file. Don't use too much pressure, or you may damage your skin.
Step 3
Moisturize. Apply lotion to your hands and feet to keep them comfortable, advises the Mayo Clinic.
Tips and Warnings
- Relieve--and prevent--calluses by removing the pressure from your shoes, urges the ACFAOM. Makes sure there is at least 1/2 inch of space between your toes and the top of the shoe. The widest part of your foot should fit inside of your shoe comfortably. If your footwear pinches, have it stretched out at a shoe shop, advises the Mayo Clinic. Wear socks that fit properly as well, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Insert pads (silicone, foam or cotton) in your shoes to alleviate pain from calluses. The ACFAOM describes these as your "first line of attack" in callus treatment.
- Nonprescription medicated pads and solutions may also be used to remove calluses, but you must be very careful with these, warns the Mayo Clinic. They contain salicylic acid, which can harm the undamaged skin surrounding the callus. Do not use these products if you have diabetes or circulatory problems. Never use a razor to cut or shave off a callus.
Things You'll Need
- Pumice stone, washcloth or callus file
- Moisturizing lotion
- Shoe pads
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