How to Remove a Foot Callus

Overview

Calluses are thickened skin that occur naturally in areas of your body to protect from friction. Your feet are especially prone to them as they bear the burden of your full body weight, move you from place to place and are often squashed into gorgeous, but unforgiving shoes. Calluses don't typically need to be removed surgically, but they can be removed quite easily, especially if they are causing pain.

Step 1

Soak your foot in warm water for 15 minutes. The water does not need to soapy or include any essential oils, but you can add these if you would like. The goal is to soften the skin of the callus so that you can treat it successfully.

Step 2

Apply salicylic acid to your foot callus. You can purchase pads that contain salicylic acid. These may cause irritation, though, so the Mayo Clinic suggests observing the callus carefully when changing the pad to see if the area appears red or irritated. If it does, take a break from wearing the pad for a few days.

Step 3

Use a pumice stone on the affected area. Rub gently in a circular motion to thin the skin of the callused area. If you have diabetes, avoid using a pumice stone as you risk infecting your foot.

Step 4

Talk to your doctor. She can trim the foot callus in a standard office visit. She may also prescribe antibiotic cream to minimize any potential risk of infection. If the callus has developed as a result of a foot deformity, your doctor can also help you minimize potential recurrence by fitting you for shoe inserts, called orthotics.