Calluses and corns are often confused with one another, but in reality, they are two completely different skin problems. Understanding the difference between them is crucial for proper treatment. Calluses, also known as “hard skin” or “corns” in casual terms, usually develop due to friction or pressure on the skin, often caused by wearing poorly fitted shoes. On the other hand, warts (commonly referred to in some contexts as “corns”) are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear on various parts of the body, including the feet. Because their causes are different, the approaches to treatment are also very different.
How to Remove Calluses from Your Feet
Calluses are thickened areas of skin that appear on the soles or toes of the feet. They can sometimes be painful, but in other cases, they may not cause discomfort. Regardless, it is important to remove them, both for comfort and to prevent further hardening of the skin.
One of the simplest and most effective remedies for calluses is hot water. Soaking your feet in hot water softens the skin, making it easier to remove dead layers. After soaking, gently scrub the callus with a pumice stone. Repeat this procedure twice a week for optimal results.
Another effective home remedy is using red onions. Before going to bed, cut a slice of red onion and place it on the callus. This natural treatment helps soften the hard skin overnight, making removal easier the next morning.
Onion and Vinegar Mask for Calluses
Ingredients:
2 slices of red onion
A small amount of wine vinegar
Preparation:
Soak the onion slices in the vinegar.
Place them directly on the callus.
Wrap the area with a piece of cloth or gauze and put on socks.
Leave it on overnight.
In the morning, remove the mask and gently rub the softened skin with a pumice stone.
Nettle Paste for Calluses
Nettle is another natural remedy that can help treat calluses.
Ingredients:
A handful of nettle stems and leaves
A small amount of water
Preparation:
Crush the nettle to release its juice.
Mix it with a small amount of water and blend until you get a smooth, uniform paste.
Apply the mixture to the callus several times a day.
Allow the paste to dry naturally on the skin.
This treatment works gradually, softening the hardened skin and promoting healing.
Chamomile Soak for Calluses
Chamomile is widely known for its soothing and healing properties.
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons of chamomile leaves
1 liter of water
Preparation:
Boil the chamomile in water for 15 minutes.
Remove it from heat and let it cool.
Pour the infusion into a larger basin, adding more warm water if necessary.
Soak your feet in the chamomile water.
Once the skin softens, gently rub the callus with a pumice stone.
Regular use of chamomile soaks can reduce inflammation, soften hard skin, and prevent calluses from recurring.
How to Remove Warts from Your Heels
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), and because of this, they require specialized treatment. Warts can appear anywhere on the body, but those on the heels can be particularly painful, making walking uncomfortable. Unlike calluses, warts require antiviral or antimicrobial treatments to address the underlying virus.
Garlic for Warts
Garlic is a natural antiviral and antimicrobial agent. To use garlic:
Crush a garlic clove to release its juice.
Apply the crushed garlic directly to the wart.
Cover the area with a cloth or gauze and leave it on for the entire day.
Before bed, remove the garlic and repeat with a fresh clove.
Garlic helps fight the virus while also reducing inflammation and softening the wart for easier removal.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Warts and Calluses
Apple cider vinegar is another highly effective remedy. Its acidic properties help break down hardened skin and reduce viral activity in warts. This treatment works well for both warts and calluses.
Instructions:
Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar.
Place it on the wart or callus.
Wrap the area with a cloth and put on socks.
Leave it overnight.
Repeat this procedure daily.
With consistent use, noticeable results can be seen within two weeks. The skin softens, and warts gradually shrink or disappear.
Additional Tips for Preventing Calluses and Warts
Choose Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes that fit well and provide adequate cushioning reduces friction, helping prevent calluses.
Maintain Foot Hygiene: Wash and dry your feet daily. Keeping feet clean and dry helps prevent infections and skin hardening.
Regular Soaking and Exfoliation: Soak your feet in warm water or herbal infusions regularly, and gently exfoliate to remove dead skin.
Avoid Walking Barefoot in Public Areas: Walking barefoot in places like pools, gyms, or locker rooms can increase the risk of contracting HPV, which causes warts.
By combining preventive measures with home remedies such as garlic, apple cider vinegar, chamomile, nettle, and onion masks, you can effectively manage calluses and warts without the need for expensive treatments.
Conclusion
Calluses and warts may appear similar at first glance, but they are very different conditions requiring distinct treatments. Calluses result from pressure and friction, whereas warts are caused by a viral infection. Fortunately, there are many natural, safe, and effective remedies available for both. Using ingredients like garlic, apple cider vinegar, chamomile, nettle, and red onions can help remove these skin problems at home.
Consistency is key: some treatments may require a few days to weeks to show significant results, but with regular care and preventive measures, you can keep your feet smooth, healthy, and pain-free. Remember that maintaining good foot hygiene and wearing proper footwear are equally important in preventing recurrence.
Natural remedies, combined with proper care and attention, allow you to treat calluses and warts effectively without expensive procedures or harsh chemicals. By following these home-based treatments, you can restore the health of your feet and walk comfortably once again.
