Preventing and Treating Calluses on Feet

Removing Calluses from Feet: Complete Guide

Removing calluses from your feet can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and products, you can achieve smooth-feeling feet again. In this article, you'll learn how calluses form, how to safely remove them yourself, and when it's better to visit a pedicurist.

What are Calluses on Feet?

Calluses are a natural protective reaction of your skin to pressure and friction. In areas where there is a lot of stress – such as under your heel, ball of your foot, or toes – your skin produces extra skin cells. This thickened, hardened layer acts as a cushion and protects against blisters and damage.

A thin layer of callus under your feet is normal and even useful. Only when it becomes too thick or painful is it time to intervene.

How Do Calluses Form?

Calluses form when skin cells are produced faster than they shed. This occurs due to repeated pressure and friction – for example, from tight shoes, incorrect foot posture, or a lot of walking. The epidermis thickens as protection.

Causes of Calluses: Pressure, Friction, and Moisture

Factors that exacerbate callus formation: tight or poorly fitting footwear, foot deformities such as hallux valgus, and sweaty feet. Moisture softens the skin and increases friction. With PediSpray® you strengthen the skin and reduce sweaty feet – thereby also preventing calluses.

Symptoms of Calluses: Recognition

You can recognise calluses by hardening, yellow discolouration, and roughness. They often occur due to excessive pressure from incorrect footwear, flat feet or overpronation. Discomfort when walking, cracks, and heel or foot fissures can result.

Callus or Corn?

A corn (heloma) is a small, round thickening that grows inward – often on toes or the side of the sole. Callus is a broader thickening of the top skin layer. If in doubt: have a pedicurist take a look.

Removing Calluses Yourself: Step-by-Step Plan

Requirements: warm water, mild soap, callus file or pumice stone, towel, foot cream.

1. Soak Feet – 10–15 minutes in warm water with soap to soften the skin.
2. Clean and Dry – wash feet and dry thoroughly.
3. File Calluses – gently file with a callus file or pumice stone in a downward motion. Do not press too hard.
4. Moisturise – apply foot cream to keep the skin supple.

Always use a callus file suitable for feet. Work patiently and stop if it hurts.

Stubborn Calluses? Visit the Pedicurist

Calluses in difficult areas or that won't go away? A pedicurist has professional tools and can advise you on foot care to prevent recurrence. Find a pedicurist via pedicure.nl.

Prevent Calluses with PediSpray®

With PediSpray® (camphor spirit) you strengthen the skin and reduce callus formation. It also helps against sweaty feet. Regular use keeps your feet in better condition.