Calluses are thickened patches of skin that have formed due to ill fitted shoes, failure to protect feet with socks and foot pressure. Following steps at home to reduce and remove heel calluses can provide relief from the thickened skin. It is important to consult your podiatrist before starting any treatment if you are diabetic or experience pain and swelling with your calluses.
Step 1
Soak your feet in warm soapy water to soften callused heels, suggests the Doctors Book of Home Remedies. Soaking your feet for five to ten minutes will cause the callused skin to soften, allowing for easier removal of dead skin cells.
Step 2
Rub your heels with a pumice stone or washcloth to remove dead skin from your callus. According to MayoClinic.com, this removes toughened skin layers each session. Diabetics should not use pumice stones as it poses greater risk of tranferring skin infection. Do not shave calluses at home.
Step 3
Apply moisturizing cream to your heels to soften the treated skin. Vitamin E cream or oil soaks into the skin faster without leaving a greasy residue behind, according to the Doctors Book of Home Remedies.
Step 4
Apply padding to your calluses to prevent further pressure which worsens the condition and prevents proper healing. According to MayoClinic.com, pads should not contain salicylic acid, as this causes irritation to healthy skin and is unsafe for diabetics and individuals with poor circulation.
Step 5
Wear shoes that fit your feet with no discomfort whatsoever. Ill fitted shoes cause pressure on your heels, worsening and forming calluses. Your shoes should leave plenty of room for you to move your toes, according to the Doctors Book of Home Remedies. Tight shoes should be avoided as well as narrow toed shoes.
Things You'll Need
- Warm water
- Soap
- Pumice stone
- Moisturizer
- Padding
- Well fitted shoes
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