Calluses are thick layers of skin that develop in response to continuous pressure or continuous irritation caused by friction. Usually they are caused by running around barefoot, or from poorly fitted shoes. If you have calluses then you can use these tips to help treat them. If you don’t have calluses then you can use these tips to help prevent them.
1 – Know What Not to Do
There are several things that you can avoid to prevent calluses from developing. First of all wear good shoes. Your shoes should allow your feet to breathe, they shouldn’t slide on your feet, and they shouldn’t pinch your feet. By wearing a good shoe you will prevent calluses from developing.
If you have calluses you don’t want to cut or file them down. This can lead to infections and serious foot conditions, especially if you have circulatory issues or diabetes.
2 – Use a High-Concentration Beta-Hydroxy
Gentle exfoliation is a good way to address calluses. One of your best options for treating calluses is to use a cream or lotion that contains a highly concentrated beta-hydroxy. This will help to remove dead skin, and allow a softer layer of skin to emerge.
3 – Talk to Your Doctor
If you have a serious callus or a series of calluses on your feet then you may want to consult with a doctor before trying any home remedies. They will help to identify the cause of your calluses, and they will also help you to figure out the best treatment plan for your case. If your calluses are interfering with your ability to walk or wear shoes, then the doctor may be able to remove the calluses in his/her office and then prescribe you with anti-bacterial creams to help prevent foot infections.
4 – Change Your Socks
If you are developing calluses even after buying good shoes the problem may be that you are simply genetically programmed to develop calluses. In this case you will need to provide your feet with a little extra padding. A good pair of runner’s socks may be just what you need. Runner’s socks wick away moisture from your feet, and they also provide your feet with substantially more padding then regular department store socks do.
5 – Add Pedicures to Your Beauty Routine
A good way to prevent calluses, and manage calluses, is to add pedicures to your weekly beauty routine. Frequent pedicures will help to soften your skin and it will address skin build ups around callus areas. The thing to keep in mind when giving yourself a pedicure is to keep things clean. Sterilize your equipment and tools between uses to prevent bacterial and fungal infections.