Calluses on the feet: where do they come from?
Calluses – also called hyperkeratosis – are common on the feet. The heels, but also the side of the toes and sometimes the sole of the foot. It is hardly surprising that feet are the target of calluses because many circumstances favor their appearance.
In this article, the nail supplies expert Maryton will explain the origin of calluses on the feet. Just keep reading!
Subjected to constant pressure, the feet support the weight of the body permanently. It is a dry and easily dehydrated area, which undergoes repeated friction every day: new shoes, shoes that are too narrow, friction during a sporting activity … the feet are often mistreated by nature! Corns will then form on these areas of friction: the skin becomes hard and dry and can start to peel.
Without special care, the skin will end up cracking, and cracks will appear. The latter can create real pain, hinder wearing shoes and walking, and even end up becoming infected in the most extreme cases.
Calluses are not always due to a mechanical action, such as friction: they can occur as a result of certain diseases, such as psoriasis or following medical treatment (oncology treatment for example). Calluses can refer to a dry plaque, quite extensive at the heel for example, or a more localized area: we then speak of corns or calluses.
Corns are located at the toes: we distinguish between hard corns and soft corns. Hard corns, rounded in shape, appear on the edge of the toe or on the top of the toes. They are generally caused by friction from shoes. A soft corn, also called a partridge’s eye, is located between two toes: it is easily distinguished from a hard corn because it has a black dot in its center – like the partridge’s eye!
Calluses are located on the sole of the foot, particularly on the metatarsal area – where the foot rests when walking. If the condition is severe, your daily walking activities will be affected. For health reasons, it’s best to invest in a pedicure kit to take care of and pamper your feet regularly.
Read also: How to care for resin nails?