Characterized by the presence of thickened layers of dead skin, calluses typically develop on the bottoms or sides of the feet as your body's response to chronic rubbing or irritation. Most calluses respond well to home remedies, especially if you use a combination of treatments. If you have diabetes or suffer from poor blood circulation, always check with your primary care doctor before attempting home remedies for a callus on your own, as doing so could lead to skin infections and other health complications.
Skin Soaks
Treating your callus-affected foot to a soothing soak could be just the ticket you need to jump-start the process of reducing calluses. According to MayoClinic.com, foot soaks help improve calluses by softening the layers of dead skin, which makes the physical removal of the callused skin easier. Fill a dish tub or bucket with hot, soapy water. Mix in a cup of apple cider vinegar or several handfuls of Epsom salts or colloidal oatmeal. Soak the affected foot once daily for 10 to 15 minutes, following up with a foot scrape for best results.
Skin Scraping
Scraping away the layers of built-up, dead skin serves as a commonly used method to physically remove calluses, says Paul Bragg, co-author of "Build Strong Healthy Feet." Rest your foot on a folded towel or cushion, positioning it in a way that you have easy access to the callused portion. Gently slough off the dead skin with a pumice stone, using light pressure and a steady back-and-forth motion. Never attempt to remove callused skin with a razor, knife or other sharp instrument, as doing so could cause a cut or lead to a skin infection.
Cushions
Minimize rubbing that contributes to calluses by cushioning the affected area of your foot. Purchase preformed foot cushions at a pharmacy or shoe store, or create your own custom-sized foot cushions from adhesive moleskin. Provide additional cushioning by wearing thick socks that fit properly; look for socks that wick moisture away more easily, specifically those made from a blend of cotton and polyester, advises MayoClinic.com.
Change Footwear
Because most calluses develop on the feet as a result of ongoing rubbing or irritation, changing the type or style of shoe that you wear often serves as an effective remedy for eliminating this bothersome condition. Steer clear of high-heeled or pointed shoes, opting instead for well-cushioned, flat shoes that fit properly. If necessary, go to a full-service shoe store that provides assistance in measuring and selecting shoes that fit well. In many cases, changing footwear is the only home remedy that provides long-term relief from calluses, since it eliminates the original cause of the skin growth and keeps new calluses from forming.
References
- "Build Strong Healthy Feet"; Paul Bragg and Patricia Bragg; 2004
- MayoClinic.com: Corns and Calluses
- MayoClinic.com: Corns and Calluses Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- "1,801 Home Remedies"; Reader's Digest; 2004
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