Natural Ways To Remove Corns

Corns can develop on any portion of your body exposed to repeated friction and pressure. A corn is a thickened layer of skin, often on the foot, a result of ill-fitting shoes. Like a callus, a corn forms a bump on the skin's surface, usually on the top of the foot or between the toes. Corns may not be tender, while calluses are usually painful, reports the Mayo Clinic. You may try some natural ways to remove corns, but if they become painful, see your doctor.

Remove the Cause

Since corns are the result of something rubbing against your skin, switch shoes or wear gloves when using garden tools, such as rakes or shovels.
Tight socks can also lead to corns, reports the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," so wear comfortable socks that do not apply pressure to your feet. High heels force the foot into an unnatural position with excess pressure on the sides of the lower foot. If you must wear heels, slip them off occasionally and allow your feet to stretch out and relax.

Soften and Sand

Corns are just layers of dead skin. The Mayo Clinic suggests soaking the corn in warm water to soften it before sanding away the top layer of the dead skin with a natural pumice stone, available in the cosmetic areas of department stores.
Gale recommends applying fresh lemon juice or fresh, crushed garlic to the corn to soften it. Use an adhesive bandage to cover the juice or the garlic and leave it on overnight. After removing the bandage, lightly sand away the corn with the pumice stone. Do not use scissors or a razor to cut away corns.

Protect

Commercial corn pads are available, but you can make your own protective pad by using a plain cotton ball and working it with your fingers until you hollow out the center so that it resembles a small donut. Place the hole directly over the corn, and cover the cotton ball with an adhesive bandage to secure the cotton in place. Alternately, you may layer pieces of flannel, cut into donut shapes, over the corn, taping them into place.
Lanolin, or the oil from a vitamin E capsule, massaged gently into the corn will soften and protect the corn from drying out and splitting. If a corn splits and bleeds, if it becomes painful or if you have diabetes, consult your doctor before treating your corns with natural remedies.