Callus removal involves addressing patches of thick skin caused by friction, which can lead to discomfort. Common on hands and feet, if untreated, they may result in infections. Medical treatments include specialized shavers and acids, while household items also offer effective remedies.
1. Callus Removal Using Aspirin:
Crush aspirin tablets and mix them with lemon juice and water. Apply as a paste, wrap, and wait 10 mins. Scrape with a pumice stone. Avoid if allergic to aspirin.
2. Baking Soda Paste:
Mix baking soda with water, and apply regularly to calluses for healing.
3. Tea Soak:
Mix chamomile tea or tea tree oil in water, and soak calluses to dry skin.
4. Cornstarch Prevention:
Rub feet with cornstarch to keep them dry, and prevent and soothe calluses.
5. Vinegar Wrap:
Soak a cotton ball in vinegar, tape it to the callus overnight, and rub it with a pumice stone.
6. Pineapple Enzyme Treatment:
Place pineapple peel over callus, wrap, and repeat nightly. Pineapple juice can help too.
7. Stale Bread Method:
Soak stale bread in apple cider vinegar, tape to callus overnight, and wrap with plastic wrap and sock.
8. Aloe Overnight Softening:
Apply aloe leaf or gel, cover with bandage, and soften callus for filing.
9. Vitamin A and E Oil:
Prick the vitamin capsule, and apply oil to the callus before sleep until healed.
10. Creams and Petroleum Jelly:
Use creams with salicylic acid, urea, or ammonium lactate. Soften with petroleum jelly, and wear socks or gloves for moisture sealing.
Why do calluses appear?
Calluses develop as a protective response to skin friction. They typically emerge on hands, feet, and between fingers. Visiting a doctor isn’t always necessary; you can address the root cause yourself.
• Instrument and Tool Use: Calluses can develop on hands similar to feet due to pressure. Playing instruments or using hand tools can lead to calluses. Use padded gloves or fabric cloths on tool handles.
• Ill-Fitting Shoes: Poorly fitting shoes can cause calluses. Oversized shoes allow sliding, while undersized ones cause squishing and rubbing. Ensure room for your toes; orthotics should also be considered.
• Extended High-Heel Wear: High-heels add height but pressure toes, causing calluses. These shoes affect women’s feet more than men’s due to excessive pressure.
• Sockless Shoes: Socks reduce foot movement friction. Without socks, shoe-foot friction occurs, contributing to callus formation.
Do I need a doctor to remove themTypically, once the callus’s cause is known, self-care can prevent its growth. Yet, home treatment risk is higher for conditions like diabetes. Seek medical help if you’ve diabetes, delicate skin, infection risk, pain, abnormal bone structure, or ineffective home remedies.
Do you know any other remedies for callus removal? Let us know in the comments.