Each time one walks, the feet take a considerable beating. As a result, corns on toes and calluses form to protect the structures underneath the skin. Constant friction and trauma on certain parts of the feet will result to the uneven thickening of the skin with rough surfaces. The thickened skin is sensitive to the touch and can be yellowish or grayish in color. All of us are susceptible to corns and calluses, and they pose no serious health risks. However, treatment is required if they are causing embarrassment, discomfort and if one is diabetic to prevent complications such as infections.

Are corns and calluses the same?

No, calluses and corns are not the same.

Calluses are thickened parts of the skin that has grown broadly like a mound with no distinctive borders. They do not hurt, but can embarrassingly look funny because they are either yellow or grayish in color and sometimes scaly.

Corns on toes are smaller compared to calluses; they are round, hard at the center and can be painful. They grow between the toes especially on the fourth or fifth toe and bony parts of the toes. Unlike the calluses that grow outward, corns grow under the skin surface in the shape of a cone. It is because there is no place for the thickened skin to grow on the outer layer of the skin. Hence, it hurts when pressure is applied on the corn. Imagine a pebble growing underneath the skin and pressure is applied–that is how uncomfortable and painful a corn can be.

How are corns and calluses treated? » Read more: Calluses and Corns on Toes: Are They The Same?

Foot warts are caused by a skin virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), that infects the body through a break or crack in the skin. Foot warts are particularly painful as they form a thick callus that receives constant pressure with walking. Plantar warts often develop beneath pressure points in your feet, such as the heels or balls of your feet. The virus directs skin cells to create more viruses, as well as the thick callus tissue which folds in and out, creating a cauliflower-like appearance. Though warts are usually treated through surgery, there are much affordable ways to get rid of foot warts. Here are 5 cheap ways to get rid of foot warts.

1. Hyperthermic Treatment

Hyperthermic treatment of plantar is very simple and all you need is warm water and a small tube to soak your feet in. It involves soaking your feet in hot water to remove the warts for 90 minutes a day. This is a no-nonsense method on how to remove warts, especially plantar warts. Also, it can relieve the pressure and the pain caused by the infection.

2. Salicylic Acid

These are available as drops, gels, pads, and plasters. Your feet must be clean before applying the treatment. So first, use antibacterial soap and clean water to wash your feet, then apply the salicylic acid. The acid irritates the foot warts and softens the skin on the affected area that will eventually fall off. Be sure to apply the medicine on the infected area only because it can also damage healthy skin if not applied properly. This treatment may take time to eliminate foot warts.

3. Duct tape and Pumice stone

A piece of duct tape is used to cover the foot warts and leave it in place for a period of time. A pumice stone is also used to rub off dead skin after removing the duct tape. Some people find this treatment effective; however, it requires repeated treatment until the foot warts are gone. » Read more: 5 Cheap Ways To Get Rid Of Foot Warts