Calluses

Calluses are thickened, rough patches of hard skin, a common and usually benign skin condition that forms where the skin is repeatedly pressed or rubbed. They appear mostly on the feet, toes and hands, and are larger than corns, which are small tender lumps of similar hard skin. Common causes include ill-fitting shoes or high heels, bone problems in the feet, loss of fat padding under the foot with age, going without socks, lifting heavy weights and playing a musical instrument. Calluses are generally not serious, although they can be painful, and an infected one may need antibiotics. People with diabetes, poor circulation or a weakened immune system face more serious foot problems from them. Management is conservative: well-fitting cushioned footwear, soaking and gentle filing, moisturising, and softening patches or creams; a podiatrist may also pare away the hard skin or supply padded insoles to relieve pressure.

Seek urgent care for a rapidly spreading rash with fever, a rash with blisters or peeling, or facial swelling. See a doctor for skin changes that do not improve with over-the-counter treatment after a few weeks, a mole that changes, or acne that is scarring or affecting your confidence. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.