What are the treatment options for corns and calluses?

A corn is a small, firm area of thickened skin, often with a central hard point. A callus is usually broader and flatter. Both develop where repeated rubbing, pressure or load encourages the outer skin layer to build up. Tight shoes, uneven weight distribution and foot shape can keep the problem going. Treatment works best when it addresses both the thick skin and the pressure that caused it.

Choose roomy footwear and cushioned socks, and consider a soft pad that moves pressure away from the affected spot. Apply an emollient regularly to soften dry thickened skin; see [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) for more detail. A healthcare professional can advise whether gentle filing is suitable. Do not cut the area yourself or use medicated acid products without advice, especially if you have diabetes, reduced sensation or poor circulation. A clinician may remove a painful thick core; curettage and cautery is one procedure used in selected cases. Read about [Curettage And Cautery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/curettage-and-cautery/).

Arrange an assessment if the area bleeds, becomes warm or swollen, drains fluid, or hurts despite reducing pressure. Seek prompt medical advice for a rapidly changing lesion, marked redness spreading around it, or fever. People with diabetes, circulation problems or reduced foot sensation should have new thickened skin checked before attempting home treatment.

Ask what is creating pressure on the spot, whether the lesion is a corn or another condition, and which footwear or padding could help. Ask whether filing or professional removal is appropriate for your skin and health history.