Both hands and feet can have uncomfortable, hardened skin patches called calluses and corns.extend_more They are the result of constant pressure and friction, which is frequently brought on by poorly fitting shoes or unsightly instruments.extend_more These hardened regions can be unpleasant and ugly, but they are not medically serious.extend_more
Many wonder whether these rough places may be treated with a bare-hand foot cream. The degree of the corn or callus, along with the cream’s components, will determine the response.
Comprehending Corns and Calluses
Let’s first discuss the differences between calluses and corns before discussing treatment options:
- Calluses: These are large patches of thicker skin usually found on the feet’ fingers, palms, and bottoms. They grow as a defence mechanism in the face of constant conflict.extend_more
- Corns: These are hardened patches of skin with a central core that are smaller and more concentrated.extend_more Shoes that are too small or too tight can cause them to develop on the sides or tips of the toes.extend_more
Hand Foot Cream Function
The main goals of regular hand and foot creams are to soften and hydrate the skin. Even while they might not wholly remove corns and calluses, they can aid in the healing process:
- Wetness: Corns and calluses grow best on firm, dry skin. Good hand and foot creams contain emollients such as mineral oil, petrolatum, or shea butter that help moisturize and soften the surrounding skin. This may lessen the calluses or corn’s roughness and possible irritation.
- Exfoliation: Salicylic acid, lactic acid, or pumice are moderate exfoliating chemicals in some lotions. These can help promote smoother skin by gently buffing away dead skin cells from the surface. However, they won’t be able to remove the thicker layers of corn or callus.
Compounds for Callus-Specific Needs: Seek out creams that contain compounds like urea or ammonium lactate that are specifically designed to attack calluses. These keratolytics help to ease the callus by dissolving the keratin protein that constitutes the thicker skin.
Selecting the Appropriate Cream
Because there are so many hand and foot creams on the market, choosing the best one for calluses and corns involves taking into account a few factors:
Severity: A simple moisturizing cream may be adequate for little calluses. If you have more difficult-to-heal calluses or corns, go for a cream containing keratolytic chemicals such as ammonium lactate or urea.extend_more
Ingredients: Steer clear of irritants like alcohol and abrasive exfoliants since these can exacerbate dryness and discomfort.
Beyond Creams: An Integrated Strategy
Although a decent hand foot cream is a valuable complement, the best results for calluses and corns come from a holistic approach:
Soaking Hands and feet can be regularly washed in warm, soapy water to help soften the hardened skin.extend_more This enables using a pumice stone or foot file to remove dead cells more easily (always be gentle to avoid hurting healthy skin).
Padding: It’s important to release pressure from the affected area. For calluses, use moleskin pads; for toes, use corn protectors.extend_more Choose shoes that fit well and have enough padding.
Finding and addressing the primary source of friction is the next step in the process. This could include wearing shoes that fit correctly and provide adequate arch support or upgrading tools with smooth handles.
When to Consult a Physician
See a podiatrist or dermatologist if you have severe, painful corns or calluses accompanied by additional symptoms like redness or oedema. They might recommend stronger medicated creams, callus removal techniques, or treating underlying disorders that trigger the development of calluses.
Above and Beyond: Specialized Lotions and Treatments
Essential hand foot cream has some benefits, but for more focused callus and corn therapy, there are speciality solutions available:
- AHAs, or alpha-hydroxy acids: These, such as glycolic or lactic acid, function by gradually breaking down the connections that hold skin cells together, encouraging the exfoliation of the toughened outer layer. AHAs are suitable for people with sensitive skin because they are often milder than the keratolytics previously discussed.
- BHAs, or beta-hydroxy acids: One common BHA used to treat corns and calluses is salicylic acid. In addition to having keratolytic qualities akin to those of urea and ammonium lactate, it also has anti-inflammatory advantages that may lessen pain.
- Treatments Done Overnight: Certain lotions are designed to be used overnight. To penetrate deeper and soften the corn or callus more successfully, these frequently contain larger doses of keratolytic or AHAs. It’s imperative to follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully to prevent irritation.
- Foot masks: These offer a thorough remedy for cracked heels and calluses. Drenched in a solution rich in moisturizing and exfoliating substances, foot masks are a luxurious method to smooth tough, dry skin. For best results, look for masks that contain chemicals like urea, AHAs, and plant extracts.
Sustaining Well-Being Behaviors
It’s always preferable to prevent than to cure. To reduce callus and corn production, incorporate the following habits into your daily routine:
Regularly exfoliate: Exfoliating your hands and feet regularly with a pumice stone or mild scrub will help remove dead skin cells before they become calluses. Avoid over-exfoliating, though, as this might irritate your skin.
Wear Shoes That Fit Properly: Tight or loose shoes cause friction, resulting in corns and calluses. Invest in shoes that fit correctly and give your arches enough support and cushioning. Replace scuffed shoes right away.
Guard Your Hands: Wear gloves when using tools or performing tasks that may produce friction. This will reduce direct touch and the chance of callus formation.
Make Hydration a Priority: Hydrating from the inside out keeps your skin soft. For optimal moisture levels, apply a quality hand and foot cream regularly and drink lots of water throughout the day.
You can prevent calluses and corns on your hands and feet by following these suggestions and using the proper hand foot cream. Recall that consistency is essential!
To read more blog: 10 Tips for Using the Best Skin Whitening Cream in Pakistan
Final Thoughts
Creams for the hands and feet can effectively treat corns and calluses, mainly when used in conjunction with other techniques.
You can get smoother, more pleasant hands and feet by selecting the appropriate cream, sticking to a regular schedule, and caring for the underlying cause of friction. Remember that seeking advice from a healthcare provider is always advised for calluses and corns that are bothersome or chronic.