Noticed thick, painful patches on your toes or feet? These are likely corns or calluses—usually harmless but uncomfortable.
They form due to repeated friction and pressure, most often from shoes that are too tight, too loose, or high-heeled. Second-hand shoes can make it worse, as they’re already shaped to someone else’s feet, creating uneven pressure points. In response, your skin thickens, forming hard, yellowish areas made of dead skin cells. Corns may even develop a central core that feels like stepping on a pebble.
Other less common causes include blisters from friction or fungal infections, especially from worn shoes, which can lead to itching, redness, or peeling skin.
How to treat them:
- Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes
- Soak feet and gently smooth with a pumice stone
- Use padding to reduce pressure
- Apply moisturizing creams (like urea-based ones)
- Try over-the-counter treatments like salicylic acid
If the area becomes very painful, swollen, or doesn’t improve, consult a podiatrist for proper care.
