Calluses and Corns
Thick, hardened skin from pressure or friction
Quick Facts
- Type: Skin condition (thickening)
- Cause: Repeated pressure or friction
- Common sites: Feet, toes, and hands
- Usually: Harmless but can be painful
Overview
Calluses and corns are areas of skin that have become thick and hardened in response to repeated rubbing or pressure. They are the skin's natural way of protecting itself, building up extra layers where it is stressed. Both are usually harmless, though they can be uncomfortable or unsightly.
A callus is a broad, flat patch of thickened skin, often on the soles of the feet or the palms, with no clear border. A corn is smaller, with a hard center and a defined edge, and often forms on or between the toes where bones press against shoes. Corns tend to be more tender because the hardened core can press on the tissue underneath.
Symptoms
Calluses and corns are easy to recognize by sight and feel. Signs include:
- A thick, rough, or hardened area of skin
- A raised bump, often with a hard center (a corn)
- Skin that feels dry, flaky, or waxy
- Tenderness or pain under the skin, especially with corns or when walking
- Reduced sensation in the area in some cases
Calluses are usually not painful unless they become very thick, while corns are more likely to be sore because of their hard core.
Causes
Calluses and corns form from anything that causes repeated pressure or friction on the skin. The body responds by thickening the outer layer to protect itself.
- Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or have high heels
- Wearing shoes or sandals without socks, allowing friction
- Foot shape or gait issues that concentrate pressure on certain spots
- Bony deformities such as bunions or hammer toes
- Repeated use of hand tools, instruments, or sports equipment (for hand calluses)
Activities and footwear that repeatedly stress the same area drive the buildup over time.
Risk Factors
- Ill-fitting footwear and high heels
- Foot deformities such as bunions or hammer toes
- Jobs or hobbies with repetitive hand or foot pressure
- Not wearing socks or protective padding
- Diabetes or poor circulation, which raises the risk of complications from foot calluses and corns
Diagnosis
Calluses and corns are diagnosed simply by looking at and feeling the skin. No special tests are usually needed. A clinician may:
- Examine the thickened skin to distinguish a callus or corn from a wart or other growth
- Watch how you walk or check footwear if the foot is involved
- Order an X-ray in some cases to look for an underlying bone problem causing the pressure
Treatment
Most calluses and corns improve once the source of pressure is removed and the thickened skin is gently reduced.
- Better-fitting footwear: Switching to shoes that fit well and do not rub is the most important step.
- Soaking and filing: Soaking in warm water and gently rubbing with a pumice stone can thin the skin; do not cut the skin yourself.
- Protective pads: Cushioned pads or toe separators relieve pressure on a corn.
- Moisturizers and softening products: Help keep the skin supple; salicylic acid products can reduce thick skin but should be used with care.
- Professional care: A clinician or podiatrist can safely trim thick areas and address underlying foot problems.
People with diabetes or poor circulation should not treat foot calluses or corns at home and should see a professional, because small injuries can become serious.
Prevention
- Wear properly fitting shoes with enough room for the toes
- Use cushioned insoles or pads where pressure is high
- Wear socks and use gloves for repetitive hand tasks
- Keep skin moisturized
- Address bunions, hammer toes, or gait problems with professional help
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor or podiatrist if a callus or corn becomes painful, inflamed, or does not improve with better footwear and home care. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or numbness in the feet should seek care promptly rather than treating these at home, because any break in the skin can lead to an infection or ulcer that is hard to heal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a corn and a callus?
A callus is a broad, flat area of thick skin with no clear edge, often on the sole or palm. A corn is smaller, has a hard center and a defined border, and usually forms on or between the toes, where it is more likely to be painful.
Can I cut off a corn or callus myself?
No, you should not cut them with a blade. Instead, soak the area and gently use a pumice stone. People with diabetes or poor circulation should not treat foot corns or calluses at home and should see a professional.
Why do corns and calluses keep coming back?
They return when the pressure or friction that caused them continues, such as from tight shoes or a bony deformity. Removing the thick skin without fixing the underlying cause means it will simply build up again.
When should I worry about a callus or corn?
See a doctor if it becomes painful, red, warm, or starts to drain, which can mean infection. People with diabetes, numbness, or poor circulation should be seen promptly, since a small foot injury can become a serious wound.
References
- Mayo Clinic. Corns and calluses.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Corns and calluses.
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine. Corns and calluses.
- American Podiatric Medical Association. Corns and Calluses.