If you’ve ever experienced foot pain from thickened skin, you’ve probably heard the terms “corns” and “calluses” tossed around like they’re the same thing. But are they really?
Spoiler alert: they’re not!
While corns and calluses both develop as a response to repeated friction or pressure, they have some key differences that are worth knowing.
In this article, we’ll break down what sets them apart, why they form, and how you can treat corns and calluses to keep your feet happy and healthy.
What are corns?
Corns are small, concentrated areas of thickened skin that usually develop on the tops and sides of your toes—especially if your shoes are a little too snug.
These pesky spots form as your body’s way of protecting the affected skin from repeated friction or pressure.
Corns can be quite painful, especially when pressed, and they often have a hard centre surrounded by inflamed skin.
There are a few different types of corns, including hard corns, which tend to develop on the bony areas of your toes, and soft corns, which usually pop up between your toes where the skin stays moist.
What are calluses?
Calluses are like the big sibling of corns—they’re larger, less defined, and usually form on the soles of your feet or the palms of your hands.
Unlike corns, calluses aren’t usually painful, but they can make your skin feel rough and tough.
Calluses develop as a result of repeated friction or pressure, like from wearing shoes that don’t fit properly or walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
While corns are more concentrated, calluses spread out over a wider area, and you’ll often find them in places that bear your body’s weight, like the balls of your feet.
The good news? Calluses are your body’s way of protecting itself, so while they might not be the prettiest, they’re doing an important job!
Why Do We Get Them?
Corns and calluses don’t just show up for no reason—they’re your body’s way of toughening up your skin to protect it from repeated pressure and friction. Whether it’s from wearing ill-fitting shoes, spending long periods on your feet, or even having a certain way of walking, these thickened skin patches develop to shield the underlying skin from damage.
Corns usually form in non-weight-bearing areas, like the tops and sides of your toes, where bone pressure from shoes can be intense. On the other hand, calluses tend to develop on weight-bearing areas like the soles of your feet.
Both corns and calluses can be influenced by factors such as poor circulation, flat feet, or wearing high heels regularly. And while they might be doing their job in protecting your feet, they can still cause discomfort, especially if they grow too thick or if the surrounding skin becomes inflamed.
Treatment and Prevention
When it comes to treating corns and calluses, the goal is to reduce the pressure or friction that caused them in the first place. Here’s what you can do:
1. Soak and Soften
Start by soaking your feet in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften the thickened skin. This makes it easier to gently remove dead skin using a pumice stone in circular or sideways motions. Be careful not to remove too much skin, as this can lead to irritation or infection.
2. Use Over-the-Counter Products
There are several over-the-counter products, like corn pads or salicylic acid treatments, that can help treat corns and calluses.
These products work by softening the hard skin, making it easier to remove. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid using these products if you have sensitive skin or underlying conditions like diabetes.
3. Keep Your Skin Moisturised
Regularly moisturising your feet with a good foot cream can help keep your skin soft and prevent calluses from forming. Pay special attention to the areas where you tend to develop corns and calluses.
4. Wear Properly Fitting Shoes
One of the best ways to prevent corns and calluses is by wearing shoes that fit properly. Avoid high heels or ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on your feet and opt for comfortable shoes with enough room for your toes to move freely.
5. Protective Padding
If you’re prone to developing corns or calluses, consider using protective pads or cushioned insoles in your shoes to reduce friction and pressure on your feet.
6. When to See a Podiatrist
If you have persistent corns or calluses that are painful, or if you notice signs of infection like redness or swelling, it’s time to seek professional help. A podiatrist can safely remove the hardened skin, diagnose any underlying conditions, and provide advice on preventing them in the future.
Keeping Your Feet Healthy with Watsonia Podiatry
Corns and calluses might not be the most glamourous foot conditions, but they’re pretty common and, luckily, manageable. By understanding the differences between corns and calluses and following some simple steps to treat and prevent them, you can keep your feet feeling comfortable and pain-free.
If you’re in Melbourne and dealing with foot corns and calluses or any other foot problems, the team at Watsonia Podiatry is here to help. Whether you need advice on how to treat corns, want to remove dead skin, or are looking for comfortable solutions to prevent calluses, our expert podiatrists can diagnose and treat all your foot-related concerns. Give us a call or book an appointment online today and let us help you get back on your feet—pain-free and happy!
