Callus forms on any body part exposed to incessant pressure, which causes skin cells to multiply and die, creating thick skin on the affected area. Calluses develop on body parts as a defense mechanism. Epidermal skin thickens to protect the structures underneath the callus from injury or damage. Hard thick skin accumulated on the bottom of the foot or palm may cause pain or discomfort. Ill-fitting shoes or abnormal gait lead to callus formation on the feet. Hand calluses form with frequent application of pressure while using hand tools. Exfoliate tough skin to remove callus build-up, and try over-the-counter medications to remove callused skin.
Exfoliate
Soak the callused body part in luke-warm water. Warm water softens callused skin before removal. Use a pumice stone or emery board to slough off callused skin. Take care not to damage the skin under the callus. Skin science expert and founder of AGI Dermatics, Daniel B. Yarosh, says over-exfoliation prevents skin from rebuilding defenses before damage returns. Antioxidant creams applied to exfoliated skin replenish lost antioxidants; antioxidants rich in vitamin A, C and E helps skin defend against damage.
Over-the-Counter
Treatments with the active ingredient salicylic acid promote corrosion of callused skin. Apply the treatment every 48 hours for up to two weeks. Unaffected skin surrounding the callous requires protection from the corrosive agents in over-the-counter treatments, so coat the callus-free skin with petroleum jelly. Ointments with the active ingredient endoprotease break down proteins in callused skin. Endoprotease ointments require less precise application. Proteins in unaffected skin differ from the proteins common in callus, and callus-free skin will not break down from endoprotease application. Callus treated with endoprotease ointments rubs off with a wet cloth. Thicker callus requires daily application of endoprotease ointments.
Prevention
Callus prevention starts with proper moisturizing. Dry skin readily forms callus. Moisture applied to feet daily deters callus formation. Avoid wearing shoes with no socks. Friction encourages callus formation. Exchange ill-fitting shoes for footwear with adequate room. Abnormal gait sufferers need footwear accessories for gait correction. "The New York Times" suggests using in-shoe splits to correct abnormal gait and relieve pressure on foot soles.
References
- "Chemical Composition of Everyday Products"; John Toedt, Darrell Kosza, Kathleen Van Cleef-Toedt; 2005
- "The New Science of Perfect Skin: Understanding Skin-Care Myths and Miracles for Radiant Skin at Any Age"; Daniel B. Yarosh; 2008
- "The New York Times": Walking Abnormalities
- "Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide"; Harvard Medical School, Anthony L. Komaroff; 2004
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