Repeated pressure or friction on the skin causes calluses, which are thick layers of skin. Calluses can form on hands and the soles of the feet. The thickened skin is a protective mechanism your body uses to prevent skin damage such as blisters. While calluses are not considered serious medical conditions, they can cause discomfort and pain. Calluses may grow into the foot if they are covering bunions or if a seed corn has formed in the callus. There are some at-home callus removal methods; make sure to see your doctor if these methods do not work.
Step 1
Compare your callus to descriptions of plantar warts. Plantar warts, which are caused by a virus, grow on the soles of the feet and are often mistaken for calluses. Plantar warts feel like the thickened skin of calluses. Unlike calluses, however, plantar warts often have tiny blood vessels on the surface which look like small black dots.
Step 2
Apply over-the-counter pads to the areas of your skin where calluses develop. The pads provide protection. MayoClinic.com cautions that medicated pads and liquid removers contain salicylic acid and can damage your skin.
Step 3
Soften the callus by soaking your feet in warm, soapy water. Calluses are easier to remove once the thickened skin is softened.
Step 4
Rub the callus with a pumice stone or a cloth to remove the thickened skin. Perform this procedure while bathing or after you bathe. Cutting or shaving your callus can result in an infection, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 5
Rub moisturizer on your feet regularly to keep your skin softened.
Tips and Warnings
- Examine your feet for bunions. Bunions can be an underlying cause of calluses. Calluses often grow over bunions to protect against pain and injury. Treat the bunions to ensure calluses don't return. Prevent pressure and friction against the affected area of skin by wearing comfortable, cushioned shoes that fit properly. Properly-fitted shoes can prevent the return of calluses. Wear socks that fit well. MayoClinic.com recommends polyester-cotton blend socks over all-cotton socks to control moisture on your foot, at least until your callus is gone.
- MayoClinic.com recommends that diabetics see their doctors about callus removal instead of using home remedies. Contact your doctor if it appears there is an ulcer or infection in or near the callus. Your callus may require additional treatment for removal of unhealthy tissue.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth
- Towel
- Soapy water
- Pumice stone
- Callus pads
- Skin moisturizer
