Corneal Removal: Information & Specialists

Callus formation is a natural protective response of the skin. The skin thickens and becomes less sensitive to pressure. Since the soles of the feet are subjected to high levels of stress, calluses form there particularly often.

Calluses contain no pain-sensing cells, as they consist solely of dead tissue. Overuse of the feet and the resulting calluses can also lead to the formation of corns. These most often develop on the toes.

Warts, particularly plantar warts, are also covered by a layer of callus. However, they are caused by viruses.

Calluses can also result from

• a deformation of the toes over time, such as from wearing ill-fitting shoes, or
• a displacement of the foot bones from their normal position

.

Many people find calluses unsightly. They therefore seek the advice and help of professional pedicurists. Self-treatment is also possible using special callus-removing agents.

Before removing calluses, it is recommended to take a foot bath as preparation. This makes it easier to remove the calluses and helps prevent skin irritation.

Afterward, various methods can be used to remove calluses:

Pumice stone is a tried-and-true remedy for calluses. It allows calluses to be removed relatively easily. However, pumice stone treatment can irritate the skin. The skin then tries to protect itself, which causes calluses to form again. Therefore, treatments that are gentle on the skin are far more effective.

Callus creams are particularly effective for calluses that are not very pronounced. This callus-removing product works just as well as a pumice stone but is significantly gentler. Callus creams also contain nourishing ingredients that benefit the feet.

One of the best tools for callus removal is an electric callus remover. It is suitable for both mild and severe calluses. It removes calluses safely and gently.

We do not recommend using foot files with a metal surface, as these can have particularly sharp edges.

A foot bath isn’t just perfect for softening calluses. If the salt concentration is high enough, it also provides the skin with additional moisture. The mixture should definitely contain at least 10 percent salt. Table salt or Dead Sea salt are best suited for this purpose.

For very dry skin, foot baths with oil enriched with urea are also well-suited. It penetrates the deeper layers of the skin and binds moisture there.

A foot bath should not last longer than 10 to 15 minutes. People with diabetes should end the foot bath after no more than 5 minutes.

If the bath lasts too long, the healthy skin beneath the calluses can also become softened. This poses a problem during the subsequent treatment with a callus-removing agent: under certain circumstances, the boundary between the healthy skin and the callus may no longer be detectable.

Enough callus should be removed to ensure the feet remain fully mobile. The treatment should not be painful. If the skin hurts—for example, when using a pumice stone—too much callus has been removed. This can also result in a wound.

For thinner calluses or very dry foot skin, a foot scrub is often sufficient.

It’s also important to use the right foot cream afterward. The best ingredients are

• urea,
• lipids, and
• aloe vera.

Aloe vera also has healing properties.

A callus-removing agent can also be used to treat calluses or warts. These include, for example, products containing

• salicylic acid,
• lactic acid, or
• acetic acid

.

Salicylic acid can also be used in the form of ointments, patches, or solutions for callus removal. This active ingredient may be present either on its own or in combination with acetic acid or lactic acid. All three active ingredients are effective against both calluses and warts.

For very thick calluses, it is advisable to remove the softened callus with a callus shaver.

A very tried-and-true callus-softening remedy available at the pharmacy is deer tallow ointment. This ointment consists of a mixture of beef tallow and soft soap. Before use, the feet must be thoroughly washed and then dried very well.

Tea tree oil is particularly effective for softening hard areas. It should be applied 3 to 4 times a day. A faster alternative is apple cider vinegar. The acid can soften the calluses and help them partially peel away.

A solution made from 100% aloe vera can dissolve calluses. Milking grease is also said to help. To use it, rub a thick layer onto your feet in the evening and wear socks overnight.

Furthermore, lemons can help remove calluses. Cut one in half and rub the cut side over the callus.

Particularly thick calluses are difficult to remove on your own. A specialist can help in these cases. A visit to an expert is also recommended for severely cracked calluses or numerous warts.

Cracks serve as entry points for bacteria and germs into the skin and should therefore be treated. Otherwise,

• inflammation,
• warts, or
• fungal infections

may develop.

As part of medical foot care, calluses are removed and skin cracks are treated.

Professional callus removal yields the best results © Kzenon | AdobeStock

For some people, callus removal carries increased risks. These include, for example, people with diabetes and those with hemophilia. These individuals should consult their doctor first. In such cases, seeking professional foot care may be advisable.

Callus-removing agents for self-treatment must not be applied near mucous membranes or on the face.

Callus-removing agents are designed to remove calluses. Healthy skin can also be affected by them. Therefore, care must be taken to avoid contact with healthy skin. Zinc paste or petroleum jelly can help with this: Rub it onto the surrounding healthy skin. This prevents corrosive substances from reaching the skin.

Always wear gloves when handling callus-removing agents.

It’s also important to note that callus-removing agents can interact with other medications. For certain diseases and health conditions, some medications must not be used at all.

Therefore, read the package insert before using the product. Under “Contraindications,” you’ll find a list of medications that are incompatible with the product.

The use of salicylic acid is not recommended for

• infants and toddlers,
• pregnant women, and
• breastfeeding women

. People with kidney disease should also avoid using it.

Adverse effects may occur if the salts contained in salicylic acid are absorbed into the body through the skin in large quantities.

Always wear well-fitting shoes. Shoes should not pinch or rub.

Regular foot baths keep your feet healthy and supple. Oils, bath additives, or foot bath tablets can enhance the effect. Apply cream to your feet afterward. After a bath, the skin is very receptive to such moisturizing ingredients.

It’s best to try on new shoes in the afternoon. By then, your feet have fully “expanded.”

Give your feet a rest regularly, especially if you have to stand or walk for long periods. Take breaks and give your feet time to recover.

Regular, properly performed exercises also help prevent calluses and pain. There are special exercises for this. However, your feet should be gradually accustomed to all exercises and physical stress.

Massages and walking barefoot can help relax your feet.

Pain while walking or calluses on the toes can also be a sign of a foot deformity. In this case, consult a doctor to determine whether such a deformity could be the cause. Healthier footwear or orthopedic insoles often help in these situations.

When it comes to callus removal, a combination of

• callus removal,
• foot care, and
• prevention

works best.

Ideally, no new calluses will form after callus removal.

For severe calluses, treatment with a callus-removing agent can take up to eight weeks. In some cases, it takes even longer.