Use warm water instead of hot water. Hot water can dry out your skin and irritate your feet. If you have diabetes, the you should wash your feet every day. Use lukewarm water with a mild soap and dry your feet well. Then, moisturize you feet with some lotion, petroleum jelly, or baby oil. [1] X Research source
Pumice stones and foot files work better if you wet them in warm water before using them. If you do not have a pumice stone, foot file or emery board, you can also use a wash cloth to scrub away the dead skin. After you’ve scrubbed your feet, apply moisturizer to your feet to lock in the moisture and keep the skin on your feet soft and pliable. If you have diabetes, make sure that you ask your doctor before using a pumice stone to remove calluses. [2] X Research source
These pads come in various sizes and shapes for different parts of your feet, but they also come in larger-sized squares that can be cut to size for whatever area you want. Some of these pads come in a medicated version, however you should avoid the medicated versions unless directed to use them by a doctor.
A doctor has the proper facilities and equipment to potentially cut off the excess skin from a callus or corn. This should never be done at home. [3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source A doctor may also suggest or prescribe an antibiotic ointment (like Polysporin) to use on a corn or callus if it has become infected, or there is the possibility it will become infected.
Small patches that contain a 40% salicylic acid solution can be used directly on a callus or corn to help soften the skin for easier removal. These patches can be purchased over-the-counter at a drug store under several brand names. If you doctor does not provide instructions on when and how often to use these patches, follow the instructions on the package. Prescription-strength salicylic acid gel is also available for areas larger than a patch can cover. You should only use salicylic acid with a doctor’s guidance. Because it is an acid, it does have the ability to burn and irritate your skin, which in turn can lead to an infection. Your doctor will instruct you on which products to use, how often to use them, and how much to use each time.
Make sure the salesperson measures both of your feet. Chances are, like most people, you have one foot that is larger than the other. You’ll want to select a shoe size that fits the larger of your two feet. Leave shopping for shoes till as late as possible. Throughout the day your feet swell and you want to size your shoes based on your swollen feet. This ensures that your shoes are large enough to accommodate your swollen feet and won’t become uncomfortable as the day goes on. Buy shoes based on how they actually feel on your feet, even if the size on the shoe doesn’t make sense. While it may seem obvious, buy shoes that are shaped like feet. Many ‘stylish’ shoes come in odd shapes which can end up hurting your feet and causing calluses. When trying on new shoes, make sure your whole foot feels comfortable inside the shoe — from the tips of your toes, to the balls of your feet, to your heel. Leave approximately ⅜” to ½" of space at the tip of the shoe between the end of your big toe and the start of the shoes.
Make sure to allow your shoes to dry out before wearing them again — don’t put on wet footwear. Avoid wearing the same socks two days in a row if you can, especially if they get wet or sweaty. If you socks do get wet, change them as soon as possible. Remember to wash your feet every day as part of your regular cleaning routine, including between your toes. Plus, after you’ve washed your feet, make sure they’re completely dry before putting socks on. Also consider wearing flip-flops or sandals when walking around a public swimming pool and even inside a public shower.
Don’t apply moisturizer and then attempt to walk around in your bare feet, this can be dangerous! Get into the habit of applying moisturizer to your feet right before you go to bed. Take the opportunity to give your feet a massage when applying the moisturizer. This feels great, but also increases blood circulation in your feet. If possible, buy and use only moisturizer designed for feet on your feet.
Removing and preventing corns can be accomplished using the same methods as you would for calluses, but make an appointment to see your doctor if they get really severe and painful.
While foot razors or shavers can be purchased at drug stores and pharmacies, they are not a good idea to use. They can easily cut your feet, and these cuts can easily become infected. [11] X Research source
You can make this cream and store it for future use as long as you remember to shake the bottle before you use it.
Vegetable oil (and other oils) can stain fabrics, including your socks and sheets. The best socks to use in this situation are wool socks, as the wool absorbs the oil and doesn’t stain. If you can’t use wool socks (or if they’re too hot) use a pair of old socks instead.
Dedicate a pair of old socks to this process so you don’t have to worry about the Vaseline staining them, or your sheets.
