Corns can make even short walks painful. They typically develop due to thickened skin caused by constant pressure, often from shoes that don’t fit well.
Luckily, there are several effective home remedies you can try. Here are some specific tips to treat and prevent corns.
Avoid tight shoes
The most common cause of corns is poorly fitting shoes. If your footwear presses against your foot, it creates friction and pressure that can lead to corns.
Switch to shoes that fit your feet properly and offer enough room for your toes.
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Walk barefoot or in socks at home
When you're indoors, give your feet a break from shoes entirely.
Walking barefoot or in socks reduces the pressure on areas where corns typically form, giving your skin a chance to recover.
Use a foot soak to soften the skin
A warm foot bath can help soften the hardened skin around a corn.
Once softened, it becomes easier to remove some of the excess skin. This can ease discomfort and reduce the size of the corn.
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Gently scrub with a nail brush
After soaking your feet, use a simple nail brush to gently scrub away some of the hardened skin.
Be careful not to scrub too hard, this should never be painful, and you must avoid damaging the skin.
Apply a rich moisturizer
To prevent new corns and keep your skin supple, regularly apply a thick foot cream.
Moisturizing helps the skin stay elastic and reduces the risk of thickened skin and corns developing again.
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Try special corn-removal creams
There are pharmacy creams specifically made to break down corns.
These creams often contain acid-based ingredients and must only be applied directly on the corn, not the surrounding skin.
Always follow the product instructions carefully.
Use corn plasters
You can buy special corn plasters that both protect the painful area and, in some cases, help dissolve the corn over time.
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Many of these contain salicylic acid, which softens and breaks down the hardened skin.
Use toe or finger protectors
There are silicone-based protectors for fingers or toes where corns commonly develop.
These reduce pressure and protect sensitive areas, helping to prevent irritation and allowing healing to take place.
Ask your pharmacist for advice
If you're unsure which products are best for your feet, talk to your pharmacist.
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They can guide you toward the right treatment options, such as softening plasters, protective sleeves, or acid-based creams designed to dissolve corns.
Seek professional help if needed
If home treatment doesn't work, or if your corn is large, very painful, or infected, you should consult your doctor or a podiatrist.
They can professionally remove the corn and prevent further complications. Always see a doctor if you suspect an infection.
This article is based on information from Netdoktor.dk.