What is Callus?
Callus is a thickening of the epidermis layer of the skin caused by repeated friction or pressure. This pathological condition occurs when the skin increases keratin production as a protective response and is usually seen on the soles of the feet, palms or fingers. Calluses develop due to factors such as constant mechanical stress or incorrect use of shoes. Clinically, calluses can be hard, raised and painful. Treatment approaches include appropriate shoe selection, protective pads, and topical keratolytic agents (e.g., salicylic acid). In advanced cases, dermatological evaluation and treatment may be required.
How Does Callus Form?
Callus is a thickening of the epidermis layer that occurs as a result of the skin being exposed to constant friction or pressure. This pathological condition occurs with increased keratin production as a protective mechanism of the body. Particularly tight or ill-fitting shoes, prolonged standing, and repetitive mechanical stress contribute to the development of calluses. Constant irritation of the skin leads to inflammation and hyperkeratosis; Hyperkeratosis is characterized by excessive keratin production in the upper layer of the skin, creating the hard, raised structure of calluses. Additionally, tools that apply constant friction and pressure to the fingers or hands can also trigger callus formation. In the treatment of calluses, reducing mechanical pressure, choosing appropriate shoes and using topical keratolytic agents (e.g. salicylic acid) are recommended. In advanced cases of callus, dermatological intervention may be required. Treatment and prevention strategies are important steps towards reducing the effects of calluses and maintaining skin health.
What are the Symptoms of Callus?
Calluses form when the skin thickens due to repetitive friction or pressure and manifests itself with various symptoms. The most common symptom is the formation of a hard and raised area on the skin. This thickened area is usually found on the soles of the feet, fingers, or hands. Calluses usually have a yellowish color and have a harder texture compared to the surrounding skin.
Additionally, calluses can often lead to tenderness and pain. Under friction and pressure, discomfort and pain may occur in the callus area. This pain may worsen when standing or walking for long periods of time. Cracks and sores may form on the skin, which may increase the risk of infection.
In some cases, the skin around the callus may become inflamed and redness may appear. Leaving calluses untreated can lead to worsening of these symptoms and more serious skin problems. Therefore, it is important to detect callus symptoms early and apply appropriate treatment methods.
What are the Types of Calluses?
Callus is defined as thickened tissue that forms as a result of repetitive pressure and friction in certain areas of the skin. Callus types differ according to their formation location and characteristics. The most common types of calluses include hard calluses (clavus Durum), soft calluses (clavus mollis), and seed calluses (clavus miliare).
Hard Callus: Hard calluses usually form on the soles of the feet, heels and tops of the toes. It is thick, hard and cone-shaped. Hard calluses can grow deeper into the skin and cause pain. The pressure of shoes or incorrect walking style are the main causes of such calluses.
Soft Callus: Soft calluses form between the toes and in moist environments. It has a softer and more elastic structure than hard callus. It is usually whitish in color and has a rubber-like texture. Soft calluses usually occur as a result of tight shoes and rubbing of the toes against each other.
Seed Calluses: Seed calluses appear as small, hard, round spots on the sole of the foot or heel. It is smaller and more superficial than other types of callus. Seed calluses usually form at pressure points on the bottom of the foot and can cause discomfort when walking.
A dermatological evaluation is necessary to accurately identify the types of calluses and determine the appropriate treatment method. Each type of callus may occur for different reasons and the treatment process is shaped accordingly.
What are the Most Effective Methods Used in Callus Treatment?
Effective methods of treating calluses generally focus on reducing pressure on the skin and softening thickened tissue. First, it is important to choose appropriate shoes and use protective pads. Comfortable and supportive shoes help heal calluses by reducing pressure and friction on the feet. Additionally, topical keratolytic agents, especially products containing salicylic acid, are used to remove the thickening on the surface of the callus. Salicylic acid dissolves keratin in the upper layer of the skin, reducing calluses.
Mechanical methods may also be part of the treatment. Pumice stones or special callus files are used to physically abrade the thick layer of callus. These methods can reduce the hardness and thickness of calluses. In cases of severe or treatment-resistant calluses, dermatological treatment methods, such as laser therapy or cryotherapy, can be applied. These advanced techniques help treat calluses from the root and prevent their recurrence.
How Long Does Callus Treatment Take to Give Results?
How long it takes for callus treatment to yield results varies depending on the methods used and the severity of the callus. Generally, with appropriate treatment methods, the healing process of calluses can take several weeks. Topical keratolytic agents, especially products containing salicylic acid, usually begin to show their effects within 1-3 weeks. These agents soften the thickened layer of the skin, reducing the callus.
In cases of severe or resistant calluses, advanced dermatological interventions such as laser treatment or cryotherapy may be required. Such treatments can usually take one or several sessions, and results can be observed within a few weeks after treatment. Individual responses may vary during the treatment process, so a personalized approach and regular dermatological follow-up are important.
When is Professional Dermatological Intervention Necessary in Callus Treatment?
Professional dermatological intervention in callus treatment is necessary when home methods are insufficient. It is important to seek dermatological help, especially if the callus causes severe pain, limits daily activities, or shows signs of infection. Severe calluses may resist topical treatments or mechanical methods applied at home due to their thickened and hardened skin structure.
Additionally, if there are symptoms such as inflammation, redness or swelling in the skin tissue under the callus, professional help should be sought, considering the risk of infection. Infection can lead to more serious skin problems if left untreated. Callus treatment should be done more carefully in diabetic patients or people with poor circulation, as the risk of infection is higher in these individuals and the healing process may be longer.
Dermatological intervention methods include advanced techniques such as laser treatment, cryotherapy (freezing therapy) and surgical excision. These methods can help treat calluses from their roots and prevent them from recurring. Professional treatment can quickly relieve pain and discomfort caused by calluses and restore skin health.
What to Follow After Callus Treatment?
After callus treatment, some important steps should be followed to prevent recurrence and maintain skin health. First of all, choosing appropriate shoes is of great importance. Shoes that are comfortable, not tight and suitable for the foot structure should be preferred. Supportive insoles can be used to prevent the feet from being exposed to long-term pressure.
Skin care should also not be neglected. Regular moisturizing of the feet helps keep the skin soft and supple. Preventing skin dryness, especially in areas where calluses have formed, can prevent callus formation again. It is also important to cleanse the skin from dead cells with a pumice stone or soft files.
It is necessary to perform regular foot checks and intervene immediately if any hardness or thickening is noticed. Additionally, activities that may cause excessive pressure should be avoided. Using the right shoes and supportive equipment during activities such as walking or running protects foot health.
If pain or signs of infection occur after callus treatment, it is important to consult a dermatologist. Professional help prevents possible complications and ensures proper management of the treatment process. These steps prevent the recurrence of calluses and protect foot health in the long term.
