Calluses on your feet are perfectly normal — they provide natural protection. But too much callus can become a problem: think hard patches, dry heels, cracks or even pain when walking. Fortunately, calluses can be effectively treated and prevented with the right foot care.

What are calluses?

A callus is a thickening of the skin caused by pressure or friction — essentially a build-up of dead skin cells. Your body produces extra skin to protect your feet.
Common areas where calluses form:

• On the heels.
• Under the ball of the foot.
• On the toes.
  
  

How do calluses develop on your feet?

The more pressure on your feet, the faster calluses form. Common causes of callus formation:

• Walking or standing a lot.
• Ill-fitting shoes.
• Dry skin.
• Excess weight.
• Walking barefoot.
  
  

How can you remove calluses?

These are the ways to remove excess callus:

• Use a callus file or pumice stone.
• Visit a qualified pedicurist every 6–8 weeks.
  
  

How do you prevent calluses on your feet?

Here's how to prevent excessive callus build-up on your feet:

• Wear well-fitting shoes — tight footwear encourages callus formation.
• Good foot care is essential. Hydrate your feet daily with foot cream, foot balm or body oil.
• Prevent your skin from drying out.
• Apply foot cream daily — a nourishing balm containing urea or a body oil works particularly well. This helps combat dry feet, cracked heels and keeps new callus formation at bay.