Corns and calluses are hard, thickened areas of skin that form because of friction or pressure. To treat them, dermatologists recommend these tips:
• Soak in warm water. Do this for five to 10 minutes or until the skin softens.
• Use a pumice stone. Dip the stone in warm water, then gently use circular motions to remove dead skin. Be careful not to take off too much skin.
• Apply moisturizing lotion or cream daily. Look for one with salicylic acid, ammonium lactate or urea.
• Use padding. To prevent a corn from making contact with your shoe, surround it with a donut-shaped adhesive pad.
• Wear properly fitting shoes. A common cause of corns is an ill-fitting shoe.
• Keep toenails trimmed. Toenails that are too long can force the toes to push up against your shoe, causing a corn.
If you aren’t sure what is causing your corn or callus, if the skin is very painful or if you have diabetes, see a board-certified dermatologist.
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, April 2018
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