Many people suffer from thick and hard skin that builds up, especially to pressure points on the feet. This is most commonly seen on the outside of the big toes, the foot pads under the forefoot, the outer edge of the soles at the transition between the big and little toes, above the small toes and especially at hammer toes and on heels. Corns or calluses are calluses to minor pressure points and are often particularly painful. When the skin on heels becomes thick, it often eventually cracks.
Pressure and friction give thick skin over time. Shoes that do not fit the foot well or simply a lot of running, walking or playing ball will cause the skin to thicken in exposed areas. Some also have malpositions or special shapes of feet and toes that make them more prone to thickened skin in areas. There are also hereditary forms of thick skin in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, so-called keratodermas.
Good shoes that do not "take you" in exposed places are important, but in any case many people will need to reduce thick skin on their feet. There are several measures that can be carried out even at home. A foot file is best used after the skin has been softened with a foot bath for a few minutes. You don't need to put anything in the water, water is enough by itself. But water itself does not help alone. It must be followed by filing and preferably keratolytic cream. These are creams that contain solvents such as carbamide in a concentration of 10% to 50%, propylene glycol or salicyl vaseline and can be bought without a prescription at pharmacies. A tip is to put on tight socks after lubrication. Then the effect increases somewhat and you avoid getting greasy cream around the house or in the bedding. The podiatrist can also help with grinding the thick skin if it is indicated or if you want help with the thick skin. Regardless of the method for reducing thick skin, it will usually require maintenance treatment with regular care of the feet as described above.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
Our dermatologists help people of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, with everything from simple skin changes to serious conditions.
