The formation of callus on the soles of your feet is a detrimental sight to behold. Calluses are significant indications of the constant friction on the skin’s surface in your soles.
Let’s find out why calluses forms and what can you do to get rid of it.
What Exactly Are Calluses?
Calluses are thickened layers of skin that form due to prolonged exposure to pressure or repeated friction. They can be found anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly seen on the feet and hands.
Calluses are generally considered an undesirable condition because they cause discomfort and pain when you walk or run. Calluses are best described as hardened skin on the hand and foot. Some calluses may develop due to the skin’s constant contact with a hard surface.
The anatomical bounds of the skin decide that the skin should not be dry. With oil production, the skin’s layers do their natural polishing process. Suppose you have a healthy skin condition; you will not be experiencing skin hardening or even the formation of dead skin-like callus. With the right amount of oil extracted from the pores, there is a lesser chance for you to have calluses forming on your skin surfaces.
However, with the constant friction, callus can form. A callus is the hardening of some skin parts. This hard portion of the skin appears to be coated with a hard rubber-like texture. This thickened skin has dead skin cells underneath.
Why Do Calluses Form?
Calluses are usually caused by friction or pressure. They are formed because of repeated rubbing of the skin. There are various reasons why people develop calluses.
The main reason is that the skin cells become thicker over time. This causes the skin to thicken and form a hardened layer. Other factors which contribute to the development of calluses include:
Diabetes
People who have diabetes tend to develop more calluses than those without this condition.
Age
As we age our bodies begin to lose elasticity. This makes it harder for our skin to stretch out and return back to its original shape.
Poor Circulation
A lack of blood flow to the area where the calluses are forming will lead to slower healing.
Illness
If you have any type of illness such as arthritis, gout, rheumatism or psoriasis, then these conditions will affect how your skin heals.
Injury
An injury to the skin can result in scar tissue being formed. This will prevent the skin from stretching and returning to its normal state.
Footwear
Your footwear plays a big role in the formation of calluses. Shoes with high heels and tight-toe boxes can increase the risk of developing calluses.
Wearing Shoes That Fit Poorly
When wearing ill-fitting shoes, the pressure exerted on the skin increases. This leads to the formation of foot calluses on the bottom of your feet.
Walking Barefoot
It has been proven that walking barefoot reduces the risk of developing calluses. However, if you wear flip-flops or sandals, you might still experience foot calluses.
How To Get Rid Of Calluses On The Skin?
A callus is not harmful. However, it is distracting. It would be best to give yourself some free time to rejuvenate your skin surfaces and feel velvety smoothness throughout.
Getting rid of calluses immediately pertains to a sense of confidence in you. There are instances wherein you are tempted to slice the calluses off using any sharp objects. NEVER DO THAT! You need to take great precautions when treating any skin condition as any trauma to the skin can make the condition worse and even lead to infections.
Most often, the environment, temperature, texture, economic conditions, and the status of the place you are living factor in the massive development of the callus in your skin greatly. Although many factors may play out at once, in this case, it is right that you get all the necessary actions to get rid of calluses on your feet.
Lotion
If you do not have the luxury of buying expensive lotions for softening calluses, you may stick with the home remedies for removing calluses. But if you are interested, the best lotion product available on the market is the Glysolid. Wash the affected area with warm and soapy water and then apply some glysolid or any moisturizing lotion.
You can also use over-the-counter products that contain salicylic acid, urea, or ammonium lactate. These creams are effective in reducing the thickness of the callus. They also help in preventing the formation of new ones.
Pumice Stone
The pumice stone is an effective tool in the removal of calluses. It is also used by many athletes to remove calluses before competitions. The pumice stone is usually found in small sizes but it is still very effective when applied to the affected area.
You should apply the pumice stone to the callused area for about 20 minutes. After this time, the calluses should start to peel off. If you want to speed up the process, you can soak the pumice stone in warm water for 10 minutes.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This compound is widely known for its ability to soften hard skin. Apple cider vinegar is a great natural remedy for treating calluses. All you need to do is mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and warm water. Apply the mixture to the affected area for 5 to 15 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Tea Tree Oil
This oil is also known for its ability to treat fungal infections. Tea tree oil is also effective in treating calluses. Simply put some drops of tea tree oil onto a cotton ball and place it directly on the affected area. Leave it there overnight. In the morning, you should wash it off with soap and water.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is another popular treatment option for calluses. It works well as a moisturizer. You just need to massage castor oil into the callused area for 15 to 30 minutes. Do this twice daily.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is also a good alternative to other treatments. It works well because it removes dead cells from the surface of the skin. Soak a piece of cloth in baking soda and then rub the affected area. Repeat this procedure 3 times per day.
Tips to Avoid Calluses:
1) Exfoliate Your Skin
Exfoliation removes dead cells from the outer layer of the skin. Dead cells build up faster when the skin is exposed to the sun. When this happens, the skin becomes dull and rough. Exfoliating the skin allows it to breathe better. It also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2) Massage
Massaging improves circulation in the body. As a result, blood flow increases. Blood flow is essential for the health of the skin. It carries nutrients and oxygen to the skin’s cells.
3) Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals such as bleaches, soaps, shampoos, and detergents strip away the oils from the skin. As a result, dry skin forms. Dry skin is more susceptible to cracks and other skin problems.
4) Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wearing shoes that fit well ensures that the foot is supported properly. Proper support prevents the foot from being overworked. Overworking the foot causes muscle strain. Muscle strain results in calluses.
5) Reduce Friction
Friction occurs whenever two objects rub together. The friction between your feet and the ground causes calluses to form. To avoid friction, wear socks that are made of cotton. Cotton absorbs moisture from the feet. This prevents the feet from becoming sweaty. Sweaty feet lead to friction.
Bottom Line
Although many factors may play out at once, in this case, it is right that you get all the necessary actions on how to get rid of calluses. The best way to treat calluses is by removing them as soon as possible. This will help prevent future problems from developing. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have toughened skin and your callus is very hard and does not respond to conventional treatments.
Be a conscious individual and take care of your skin. Your skin deserves a little of your gentle care and attention. Take the time to feel your skin and be sensitive to your body. Your body needs it more than you think.
