Removing calluses from your feet: safe home tips

By regularly and safely removing them and addressing the cause (pressure/friction).

• Soak for 5–10 minutes in lukewarm water.
• File gradually using a callus file or pumice stone.
• Then apply a rich cream (e.g. containing urea).
• Choose better-fitting shoes and socks.

Yes, if calluses are thick, tough or painful. But do not remove them all at once.

A thin protective layer is normal. Removing it too aggressively can actually trigger more callus formation or damage the skin.

Soak first, then file lightly over several sessions.

Work on slightly damp or dry skin using a callus file or pumice stone. Stop if the skin turns pink or becomes sensitive. Never use a razor blade or callus scraper.

Cream keeps the skin supple and helps prevent calluses from thickening too quickly.

Vaseline or a urea cream applied after filing works well. Cream alone does not remove thick calluses; combine it with gentle filing and less pressure.

Calluses are broader and flatter. A corn is smaller, has a hard core and protrudes more sharply.

A corn, on the other hand, has a small, hard core.

Usually caused by repeated pressure or friction: shoes, standing/walking, poor posture or dry skin.

Socks that chafe or wet feet in shoes can also be a factor. Address the cause, otherwise the calluses will return.

There is no single ‘best’ product: the basics are soaking, safe filing and moisturising.

A good callus file plus urea cream is sufficient for most people. For stubborn or painful calluses: see a medical pedicurist. If you suffer from excessive sweating and friction, keeping the skin drier can help (see PediSpray®).

In cases of pain, cracks, diabetes or vascular problems, or if self-care is not successful.

A medical pedicurist can safely remove thick calluses. In the case of recurring pressure points, a podiatrist can assess your posture or footwear.

To remove calluses, first soak your feet in warm water for 10–15 minutes. Dry them thoroughly and carefully file away the calluses with a callus file or pumice stone using downward strokes. Do not apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the healthy skin. Then apply foot cream. For stubborn or painful calluses, a pedicure is recommended.

Calluses are a broad thickening of the uppermost layer of skin, often on the sole of the foot or the heel. A corn (exostoma) is a small, round thickening that grows inwards, usually on the toes or the side of the sole. Corns are often more painful. You can recognise a corn by its small, hard centre.

A moderate amount of callus is normal and protective. However, too much callus can lead to pain, corns, cracks and heel fissures. In cases of diabetes or poor circulation: always have calluses removed by a professional.

Wear well-fitting shoes, moisturise your feet regularly with cream, and avoid excessive pressure. PediSpray® firms the skin and reduces callus formation. For sweaty feet, PediSpray also helps to reduce moisture and friction.

That depends on the severity. For mild calluses: once or twice a year. For stubborn calluses or foot problems: every 6–8 weeks. A pedicurist can give you personalised advice. Find a pedicurist via pedicure.nl.

Yes, you can remove light calluses yourself using a callus file or pumice stone after soaking your feet. Work carefully and stop if you experience pain or bleeding. If you have diabetes, cuts or severe calluses: see a chiropodist or GP.

PediSpray® contains camphor spirit, which firms the skin. This helps reduce calluses and sweaty feet. Regular use keeps your feet in better condition.