_edited.png)
Corns, Calluses and Hard Skin
The Ultimate Guide
Corns and calluses are a build up of hard, thick areas of skin, usually on hands, fingers or feet. Corns tend to be small and round whereas calluses are larger and usually more spread out.
What are Corns, Calluses and Hard Skin?
Corns, calluses, and hard skin are common foot issues that occur due to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. Corns are small, round, and typically form on the tops and sides of toes or other areas of the foot where the skin experiences constant pressure. They have a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin.
Calluses are larger, flat areas of thickened skin that develop on the soles of the feet, particularly in weight-bearing areas like the heel or ball of the foot. Hard skin refers to areas where the skin has thickened due to repeated stress, typically found on the heels and the balls of the feet. While these conditions are generally not serious, they can cause discomfort or pain and, if left untreated, may lead to complications, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions like diabetes.
Symptoms and Causes
Corns and calluses have the presence of thickened, hardened skin, which can be accompanied by pain or tenderness.
Corns typically have a central core that can be painful when pressed, whereas calluses are usually less sensitive.
Hard skin appears as dry, rough patches that may crack and bleed if not properly managed.
The main cause of these conditions is excessive pressure or friction on the skin.
This can result from wearing ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or shoes that are too tight or loose. Foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, can also increase pressure on certain areas of the foot, leading to the development of corns and calluses. People who walk or stand for long periods, particularly on hard surfaces, are also more prone to developing hard skin. In some cases, abnormal gait or foot mechanics may contribute to uneven distribution of pressure, causing these conditions.
Management and treatment
Management and treatment of corns, calluses, and hard skin primarily involve relieving pressure on the affected areas and reducing the thickness of the skin. A Foot Specialist may recommend several approaches:
Footwear Adjustments:
Wearing properly fitted shoes with adequate cushioning and arch support can significantly reduce the pressure on the feet. Shoes with a wide toe box can help prevent corns and calluses by allowing more room for the toes.
Padding and Orthotics:
Custom orthotic inserts can redistribute pressure across the foot, while cushioning pads can be applied to protect areas prone to friction. These measures can help prevent the formation of corns and calluses.
Debridement:
A Foot Specialist can safely trim or pare down thickened skin using a scalpel. This procedure should only be performed by a professional to avoid injury or infection. Over-the-counter corn and callus removal products, such as medicated pads containing salicylic acid, may also be recommended, but they should be used with caution, particularly in people with diabetes or poor circulation.
Moisturising:
Regular application of a foot cream containing urea or other hydrating agents can help soften hard skin and prevent cracks. Exfoliating the feet with a pumice stone or foot file can also keep the skin smooth.
Surgery:
In rare cases, if a foot deformity is causing persistent corns or calluses, surgery may be required to correct the underlying issue. Proper foot care, including regular inspection, moisturising, and wearing appropriate footwear, is essential for preventing and managing corns, calluses, and hard skin. If these conditions cause significant discomfort or persist despite self-care measures, consultation with a Foot Specialist is recommended for further evaluation and treatment.