Corns, calluses, and hard skin are not serious conditions, but they can be painful. They are the result of repeated friction, prolonged walking, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. What can be done to get rid of them? The answer is provided in this article.
Corns, calluses, hard skin: how to remedy them?
Published on August 11, 2023, updated on August 8, 2024, by Manon, Scientific Editor — 4 min of reading
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What are corns, calluses, and calluses?
Corns are characterized by a localized thickening of the skin with a hard core. They primarily appear in areas prone to repeated friction or excessive pressure. These stresses encourage the cells of the skin's superficial layer (keratinocytes) to increase their production of keratin in order to protect the skin, resulting in its thickening. Corns are typically located on the toes and the edges of the feet. They can particularly appear in individuals with toe deformities because this can lead to changes in weight distribution and pressures on the feet. These alterations in foot structure can create additional points of friction and pressure, thereby increasing the risk of corn formation.
The term calluses also refers to a thickening of the skin, this time on a larger area. They present themselves as small hard bumps with the appearance of a more compact and thicker area on parts of the body exposed to contact, pressure, or repeated friction. Calluses can thus appear at the fingertips, on the palm of the hand, or on the feet. Over time, they become painful if not treated.
Calluses are characterized by a localized thickening of the skin, typically on the sole of the foot, the heel, and the outer side of the big toes. These skin growths also exhibit a yellowish hue and a hard consistency. Calluses appear as a result of repeated friction with the bottom of the shoe. They are less likely to be painful, although they can cause discomfort if they become very thick.
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What are the remedies?
Several solutions can be adopted to alleviate foot pain, or even completely eliminate these growths.
Exfoliating the callus.
To eliminate corns, calluses, and hardened skin, sanding with a pumice stone, file, or rasp is ideal. Consider softening the skin beforehand by soaking your foot in a hot water bath. Don't forget to moisturize your skin immediately afterward to restore its suppleness and elasticity.
The use of orthopedic insoles.
Specially designed insoles can help redistribute weight and reduce pressure on problematic areas to prevent exacerbating symptoms and worsening pain.
Local treatment.
In some instances, topical treatments containing keratolytic agents can be utilized. These promote the removal of dead skin cells, thereby reducing the thickness of corns, calluses, or callosities, which can alleviate discomfort and pressure on the underlying tissues. They also help to soften the hard skin of these skin growths, thus facilitating their gentle removal.
Surgery.
It is entirely feasible to treat severe cases of corns or calluses through a minor surgical procedure under local anesthesia. In this procedure, the podiatrist makes a small incision in the affected area to remove the skin lesion.
Use hydrocolloid dressings.
Hydrocolloid dressings can be used to temporarily alleviate these foot growths by reducing friction and pressure on the affected area. These dressings are designed to create a moist environment that promotes healing and can help soften hard skin. However, they do not treat the underlying cause of these conditions and are generally not considered a primary treatment.
Avoid wearing shoes that are too narrow.
In the event of corns, calluses, or foot hardness, it is recommended not to wear shoes that are too narrow, which would exert pressure on these skin growths and exacerbate the symptoms.Opt for flat and comfortable shoes that allow for comfortable walking without too much friction.
