Calluses and corns are thickened areas of skin that form when your body responds to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. They most commonly develop on the feet and toes, though calluses can also appear on the hands.
While calluses and corns are often harmless, they can become painful, affect the way you walk, and in some cases signal underlying foot problems. We want you to understand what causes them and how to manage them safely to keep your feet comfortable and healthy.
What Are Calluses and Corns?
Calluses and corns are a buildup of hardened skin. This thickening, called hyperkeratosis, is your body’s natural way of protecting the skin underneath from ongoing pressure or rubbing.
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Calluses are larger, flatter patches of thickened skin
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Corns are smaller, more concentrated areas – often with a dense center
Both are extremely common and often linked to footwear or foot structure.
What’s the Difference Between Calluses and Corns?
Corns
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Small, round, and more defined
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Usually form on the tops, sides, or between the toes
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Often develop over bony areas
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More likely to be painful due to a central “core”
Types of corns include:
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Hard corns (tops of toes)
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Soft corns (between toes)
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Seed corns (bottom of the foot)
Calluses
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Larger and more spread out
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Common on the heels, balls of the feet, and big toes
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Less sensitive than surrounding skin
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Some callus formation on the sole of the foot is normal
What Do Calluses and Corns Look Like?
You may notice:
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Thick, hardened, or rough skin
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Raised or flattened patches
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Yellowish or gray discoloration
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Redness or irritation around the area
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Tenderness or pain with pressure
In more advanced cases, darker discoloration can appear beneath the skin due to minor bleeding caused by pressure.
Are Calluses and Corns Painful?
Calluses and corns may not hurt at first. Over time, as the skin thickens:
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Corns often become tender or painful
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Calluses may crack (called fissures), which can be painful
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Infection can cause redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage
Pain that worsens or interferes with walking should be evaluated by one of our podiatrists.
What Causes Calluses and Corns?
The most common causes include:
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Shoes that don’t fit properly (especially narrow toe boxes)
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High heels that increase pressure on the ball of the foot
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Standing, walking, or running for long periods
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Going barefoot
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Not wearing socks or wearing socks that bunch
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Repetitive activities or physical labor
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Structural foot issues such as:
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Bone spurs
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Abnormal gait or posture
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Loss of natural cushioning in the feet (common with aging)
How to Safely Treat Calluses and Corns at Home
For mild cases, gentle care can help reduce buildup:
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Soak the affected area in warm water for 5–10 minutes
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Gently file with a pumice stone or emery board (one direction only)
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Apply a moisturizing cream daily (look for urea or ammonium lactate)
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Protect pressure points with donut pads or moleskin
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Keep toenails trimmed straight across
Never cut, shave, or dig into calluses or corns with sharp tools.
⚠️ When NOT to DIY Calluses and Corns ⚠️
Do not attempt home treatment if you:
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Have diabetes
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Have poor circulation or neuropathy
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Have fragile or easily injured skin
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Notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage)
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Have severe pain or difficulty walking
Over-the-counter chemical removers can damage healthy skin if used incorrectly and should be avoided in high-risk patients. In these cases, professional care is the safest option.
Can Calluses and Corns Come Back?
Yes. Calluses and corns can return if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. Ill-fitting shoes, pressure points, or structural foot issues often lead to recurrence.
The good news? With proper footwear, support, and preventive care, most people can successfully manage calluses and corns long-term.
How to Prevent Calluses and Corns
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Wear properly fitted, cushioned shoes
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Avoid narrow or high-heeled shoes when possible
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Wear socks that don’t bunch or slip
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Use cushioned insoles or custom orthotics if recommended
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Keep feet clean, dry, and moisturized
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Trim toenails regularly
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Inspect your feet daily, especially if you have diabetes
Calluses and Corns: Quick FAQ
Are calluses and corns the same thing?
They’re made of the same thickened skin, but corns are smaller and more concentrated, while calluses are larger and more spread out.
Are calluses normal on the bottom of the feet?
Yes. Some callus formation is normal, but excessive buildup can cause pain and should be evaluated.
How do I know if it’s a wart instead of a callus?
Plantar warts often have tiny black dots and are caused by a virus. A podiatrist can tell the difference.
Should calluses and corns be painful?
They don’t have to be. Pain usually means pressure, cracking, or infection and should be checked.
When should I see a podiatrist?
Call us you have pain, diabetes, recurring calluses or corns, signs of infection, or trouble walking.
Final Thought
Calluses and corns are common, but they’re not something you have to live with. If your feet are uncomfortable, painful, or sending mixed signals, our doctors can help identify the cause and keep you moving comfortably.
