Medicines for Corns and calluses

What it is

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened, hardened skin that develop where the skin is exposed to repeated pressure or friction, most commonly on the feet (and sometimes the hands). They are the skin's protective response — building up extra layers to shield the area underneath. A callus is a broader area of thickened, hardened skin, often on the soles or heels or on the palms, usually not painful. A corn is a smaller, more defined area of hard skin with a central core, often on or between the toes or on the ball of the foot, which can press on the tissue beneath and be painful, especially when walking. They are common and are usually caused by factors that increase pressure or rubbing — such as ill-fitting or tight shoes, high heels, not wearing socks, foot deformities (like bunions or hammer toes) that change how pressure is distributed, and activities that put repeated pressure on the hands. They are harmless, though corns in particular can be uncomfortable. In people with reduced sensation or poor circulation (such as those with diabetes), foot problems including corns and calluses need more careful attention.

How it is treated

Management combines relieving the thickened skin with, importantly, addressing the underlying pressure or friction so they do not simply return. Reducing the cause is central — wearing well-fitting, comfortable, roomy shoes with a low heel, using cushioning insoles or protective pads to redistribute pressure, wearing socks, and treating any foot problem (such as a bunion) that is causing abnormal pressure. The hardened skin itself can be gently reduced — for example by soaking and using a pumice stone or foot file on softened skin, and moisturising regularly to keep skin supple; over-the-counter products can help, though medicated corn plasters (containing acid) should be used with care and are best avoided by people with diabetes or poor circulation. A podiatrist (foot specialist) can safely remove corns and calluses and give advice, which is particularly helpful for painful or recurrent ones. Importantly, people with diabetes, poor circulation or reduced foot sensation should not treat corns and calluses themselves with blades or strong medicated products, and should see a podiatrist. The reassuring message is that corns and calluses are harmless and manageable, and tackling the cause (usually footwear and pressure) is the key to preventing them returning.