Getting rid of calluses on the feet involves a few simple and effective measures that can be done at home. These include rubbing the callus with a pumice stone, moisturizing the area, and avoiding tight shoes and socks.
It's important not to try to open or cut the callus yourself, as this can lead to bleeding and infection. This is especially risky for individuals with diabetes or circulation problems, as they are more susceptible to complications.
If the callus doesn't improve after a week of at-home treatment, it’s best to consult a podiatrist or a primary care provider. They can recommend more targeted treatments, which may involve the use of topical medications.
What to do to remove a callus
To treat calluses on your feet at home, follow this simple routine:
1. Soak the callus in warm water
Soaking the callus in warm water helps soften the thickened skin, making it easier to remove. Fill a basin with warm water and soak the affected area (such as your foot or hand) for about 10 to 15 minutes.
2. Rub the callus with a pumice stone
After soaking, gently rub the callus with a pumice stone or emery board, if the callus is small. This will help remove the hardened skin. Avoid using sharp objects, as they can cut the skin and lead to infection.
If you don't have a pumice stone, you can use a homemade exfoliating scrub made from cornmeal and sea salt. This mixture can also help remove the tough skin on your callus.
3. Apply a moisturizing cream to the area
After using the pumice stone, apply a moisturizing cream to the affected area. This will help keep the skin soft, reducing the thickness of the skin over the callus.
4. Use a callus band-aid
You can apply a special callus band-aid to the affected area. These band-aids can be found at pharmacies, or you can use a gauze pad with adhesive.
The band-aid protects the callus, preventing it from growing or becoming thicker. In addition, there are lotions, ointments, or gels that help exfoliate the skin and support callus removal.
Be careful with callus band-aids that contain salicylic acid, as this ingredient can irritate healthy skin and cause infection, especially for people with diabetes or poor circulation.
5. Wear comfortable shoes and socks
It’s essential to wear comfortable shoes and socks that don’t apply pressure to the callus. Tight shoes and socks can worsen the condition by thickening the skin, leading to more calluses or increasing the size of the existing ones.