When to worry about thickened skin with corns and calluses

A callus is a broader area of thickened skin that develops where pressure or friction repeats. A corn is usually more focused and may have a firm central core that hurts when pressed. Common sites include the toes, soles, heels, and areas rubbing against footwear. The appearance can overlap with warts, eczema, or other skin problems, so a changed or unusual lesion should not be assumed to be a corn.

Wear shoes with enough room for the toes and use clean, cushioned socks. Reduce repeated pressure with suitable padding, and keep the skin moisturised. Do not cut, shave, or burn the thickened area yourself. Avoid acid-based corn products unless a clinician has confirmed they are appropriate, especially if you have diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation, or fragile skin.

Book an assessment when the area remains painful after pressure is reduced, keeps returning, changes in color or shape, bleeds, cracks deeply, or limits walking. Seek prompt care for warmth, spreading redness, pus, marked swelling, or fever. If sensation or circulation is reduced, have foot thickening checked before treating it at home because a small injury may be harder to notice or heal.

Ask whether the lesion is a corn or callus, what is creating the pressure, which padding or footwear changes fit your foot, and whether it is safe for you to use any over-the-counter remover.