Calluses are hard and thickened layers that form on the skin, particularly on the hands and feet. They are often uncomfortable but less serious skin conditions. You can easily eliminate calluses on any area of your skin with a few simple home remedies. However, it may require patience and time to see any positive results. To prevent calluses from reoccurring, you may need to frequently exfoliate and moisturize your skin. You should also avoid using sharp objects to remove a callus to avoid the risk of bleeding and getting an infection. Reach out to a calluses Bakersfield specialist to learn more about how you can treat these unwanted skin layers at home.
What Causes Calluses?
Calluses develop due to constant and excessive friction, rubbing, and pressure on a particular area of your skin. They can also develop due to damaging footwear such as high heels or wearing shoes of smaller size. Repetitive activities can also cause calluses such as running, ballet, or jumping. You can also prevent calluses by maintaining good hygiene. Here are five home-care treatments that can help remedy and prevent calluses.
1. Soak Calluses in Warm Salty Water
Soaking your calluses in warm water with added Epsom salt can help soften the hardened skin. Afterward, ensure to apply an exfoliating cream to the affected areas. Most doctors recommend this care treatment during bedtime to allow your skin to soak in the moisturizer properly. You can also wear special socks or gloves that easily slip on your feet or hands which helps shed off the hardened skin during the night.
2. Remove Softened Calluses Using Pumice Stone
After softening your calluses by soaking in warm Epsom salted water, use pumice stones to exfoliate the dead skin. Pumice stones are light and porous and often found in most drugstores. Once the skin has softened, use the pumice stone in a gentle, circular, side-to-side motion to remove the dead skin cells. You may need to continuously practice this home-care treatment for several days to get effective results.
3. Apply Skin-softening Creams
Applying skin-softening creams daily on the affected areas can help treat calluses and prevent future ones from developing. Calluses mostly form on dry areas of your skin. Therefore, hydrating the affected areas can help renew the dead skin cells and visibly reduce your calluses.
There are several moisturizing creams, preferably for calluses, including Glytone Ultra Softening Heel and Elbow Cream. You can purchase whichever cream works best for you through a drugstore or online.
4. Exfoliate Your Skin Frequently
Exfoliating is essential as it not only removes calluses but also boosts the production of collagen that helps improve your overall skin appearance. It allows your skin to absorb moisturizers and other treatments better by removing dead skin cells. Two types of exfoliants exist, including chemical and physical exfoliants. Chemical exfoliants are the best for removing calluses since they consist of alpha hydroxy acids that shed dead skin cells that are likely to harden.
5. Use Protective Cushions
Using special protective pads helps protect and prevent calluses. Various types of callus pads range in size and shape. However, most are designed for the feet, but you can also get padded gloves for your hands. Protective pads help calluses heal faster and safely with no risk of infection. Visit a pharmacy to get the best protective gear for your hands and feet.
Calluses might make you uncomfortable and affect the appearance of your feet and hands. At Diabetic Foot and Wound Center, you will meet some of the most experienced foot specialists who will help treat your calluses and prevent a re-occurrence. Call today or use the online tool to book an appointment.
