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Health

How Do I Choose the Best Callus Cream?

A. Pasbjerg
By
Updated May 17, 2024
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If you have calluses on your feet or other areas where there is excessive friction on your skin, you may want to try applying a callus cream to help remove them, and choosing the best one will depend on several factors. In general, a moisturizing cream is a good option for any callus, as it will help soften the hard skin and keep it from getting worse. You may also want to look for one that contains exfoliaters to clear away some of the dead skin. For thick calluses, you may need to choose a cream containing a product like salicylic acid that will make it possible to peel the buildup away. Be careful if you have diabetes or any other condition that affects circulation, or if your callus is cracked or bleeding, as some products may not be appropriate in these cases.

A deep moisturizing callus cream is typically a good choice to soften and soothe the aggravated skin. A wide variety of products containing ingredients like vitamin E, aloe, or mint designed to be used specifically for calluses are available, or you may just prefer to use a good basic moisturizer. The cream should be applied generously to the callus and surrounding skin, and you will likely want to start using it on a daily basis to keep the skin soft and help prevent further damage. You may also want to find a cream that contains a mild exfoliant, or use a separate exfoliating cream, to remove some of the dead skin once it is softened.

Thicker calluses may require a stronger treatment than simple moisturizing to help clear them away. Salicylic acid is considered to be one of the best ingredients to use, and there are many types of callus cream available over the counter that contain it. Applying these creams to your larger calluses typically softens the thick layers of dead skin so they can then be peeled off.

Before choosing a callus cream, particularly one that is exfoliating or contains salicylic acid, be sure to evaluate whether it is an appropriate course of treatment for you. People with diabetes, poor circulation to their feet, or problems with numbness are typically not advised to use creams containing salicylic acid. Cracked or bleeding calluses may be further aggravated by salicylic acid or abrasive products. If you have any of these issues, speak to a doctor before using any callus cream to ensure it is safe.

WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
A. Pasbjerg
By A. Pasbjerg
Andrea Pasbjerg, a WiseGeek contributor, holds an MBA from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Her business background helps her to create content that is both informative and practical, providing readers with valuable insights and strategies for success in the business world.
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Discussion Comments

By anon993906 — On Dec 28, 2015

I have been using Banish My Callus with emu oil and it has made a huge difference on my horrendously dry cracked heels. I used it every night for the first few weeks, now I'm able to use it just a few nights a week and my heels have been staying in good condition. Like ZipLine said above, reviews can often tell you more about a product than anything the manufacturer claims.

By ZipLine — On Sep 12, 2014

@donasmrs-- I agree with you but I also agree that there are callus creams out there that do not do a thing. In my opinion, a good callus cream won't just soften the calluses but will also help the dead skin break down and come off. Most callus creams do this with an ingredient called urea. It's possible that a callus cream doesn't have enough of this ingredient to really make a difference.

The best way to choose an effective callus cream is to read reviews. Honest customer reviews help me a lot when I'm shopping. If a product doesn't work, people will say it in their reviews.

By donasmrs — On Sep 12, 2014

@ddljohn-- Some callus creams are actually meant to just soften the calluses so that they can be removed easily with a pumice stone. So using the cream alone is not always enough. For thick and tough calluses, you will need to use both the cream and a callus remover. A pumice stone works fine for me.

I also agree that callus creams need to be used regularly to maintain, soft, healthy feet. When you stop using it, the calluses will probably return. So follow the directions and use the product accordingly.

By ddljohn — On Sep 11, 2014

I purchased a callus cream last year. I used it every day but it seemed to make no significant difference. Yes, my feet were a little softer, but I can achieve that with any moisturizer. My calluses did not go away after using the cream. My heels are the problematic areas. I seriously need to do something about them but I don't want to waste my money on another cream that doesn't work.

A. Pasbjerg

A. Pasbjerg

Andrea Pasbjerg, a WiseGeek contributor, holds an MBA from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Her business background helps her to create content that is both informative and practical, providing readers with valuable insights and strategies for success in the business world.
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