Calluses are hard, thick areas of skin that are often uncomfortable. They are rarely serious, and a few simple home remedies can help reduce their appearance. Excessive pressure or rubbing can cause them to develop on almost any area of skin. Common locations for calluses include the feet, the fingertips, and the palms of the hands. A person can usually get rid of unwanted calluses. While it may take time and patience, regular exfoliation and moisturizing can help. Refrain from using sharp objects to remove or reduce a callus. Doing this can injure the skin and lead to bleeding and even infection.
Here are some home remedies
1. Epsom salt
Adding Epsom salts to a warm bath can help treat calluses.
Epsom salts can help soften calluses in preparation for other treatments, such as manual exfoliation with a pumice stone or foot file. Try adding a handful of Epsom salts to a bath or basin of warm water, then soaking the affected skin for 10 minutes. A person can buy Epsom salts from most pharmacies. .
2. Pumice stones
Pumice stones are light, porous stones that many people use to exfoliate dead skin and calluses.
These stones work best after a person has softened the skin. An easy way to do this is to soak the callused area in warm water for 5–10 minutes before using the stone. Adding Epsom salts to the water may improve results. Once the skin has been softened, use gentle circular or side-to-side motions with the pumice stone to remove dead skin cells. A person may need to exfoliate for several days in a row to get the results they desire. Pumice stones are available in most drugstores.
3. Foot files
A foot file is another tool for exfoliation. A file usually has a metal grate with a rubber or plastic handle or could be wooden file with a sandpaper like pad. As with pumice stones, it is best to soften the callused skin in warm water before using a file. Many people use foot files while in the bath or shower. After filing down the callus, using a moisturizer can help keep the skin soft.
Most pharmacies stock foot files and many are available to purchase.
4. Exfoliating creams
Exfoliating creams can remove dead skin cells. Instead of manually exfoliating the skin, a person may choose to remove dead skin cells with exfoliating creams or lotions. Products that work on calluses and can contain ingredients such as Jojoba beads, Pumice crystals, Lactic / Glycolic acid, essential oils to name a few. A person may need to apply these daily to encourage the exfoliation of built-up skin cells. Over time, the skin will soften, and the calluses may become less noticeable. Many exfoliating creams callus treatments are available to purchase from drugstores. However, it is important to check the labels first, as these products can contain harsh ingredients that may have a burning effect on the skin. A physician, pharmacist, or podiatrist may be able to recommend a suitable cream or lotion.
5. Baking soda paste
A baking soda paste is an alternative to store bought exfoliating creams. To prepare one, mix 2 tablespoons of water with enough baking soda to form a paste, then add a few drops of lime juice. Apply the paste to callused areas, and cover them with socks, gloves, or a gauze bandage, plastic wrap. Repeat this application nightly until the callus is gone.
6. Skin-softening creams
Try applying heavy moisturizing creams or petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to callused areas and wrap with plastic wrap while leaving it on overnight. This can help soften the calluses and prevent the skin from drying out. Wearing cotton socks after moisturizing can also help protect the area and lock in moisture while sleeping. I personally love Gehwol Soft Feet.
7. Protective cushions
Reducing the friction or pressure responsible for the callus can encourage the area to heal naturally. Callus pads are a type of cushioned bandage that can protect or prevent calluses. They come in a range of sizes and shapes, and many have been designed for the feet. If the callused area is on a person’s hands, wearing protective or padded gloves may also help protect calluses and allow them to heal over time. A person can purchase callus pads from most pharmacies.
When to see a doctor
People with diabetes, should avoid treating their own calluses and consult a doctor or qualified podiatrist. This is because these individuals have a higher risk of skin and nerve injury. It may be a good idea for anyone with severe or persistent calluses to consider speaking to a doctor or podiatrist.
Prevention
Washing the feet every day and drying thoroughly can prevent calluses. Calluses result from excessive pressure or friction on the skin. Taking steps to address the underlying cause can help reduce the chances of calluses returning. Ways to prevent calluses include: washing the feet with soap and water every day, then drying them thoroughly and applying a moisturizing cream, wearing shoes that fit properly, as overly tight or very high-heeled shoes can increase friction, using gel pads or foam inserts in the shoes to prevent excess pressure. Avoid shoes with a tight toe area or that rub against the feet uncomfortably.
Calluses result from excessive friction or pressure on certain areas of the skin. They can be uncomfortable and inconvenient but are rarely a cause for concern. Having a regular pedicure can be beneficial to have professional products used to treat as well.