Skin problems health centre

Skin conditions: Blisters, corns and calluses

Three of the more common skin conditions are blisters, corns, and calluses.

Blister: A shell on the skin surface that often contains a clear liquid. Blisters can form when the skin is repeatedly rubbed; for instance, when you wear new shoes or when you wear shoes without socks.
Corn: A build-up of hard skin near a bony area of toe or between toes. Corns may be caused by pressure from shoes that rub against the toes or cause friction between them.
Callus: A build-up of hard skin, usually on the underside of the foot. Calluses are caused by an uneven distribution of weight, generally on the bottom of the forefoot or heel. They can also be caused by improperly fitting shoes or a skin abnormality. It's normal to have some calluses on the soles of your feet.

How are these conditions treated?

Blisters

Don't� ?pop? the blister; the skin covering the blister helps protect it from infection. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water or a cleansing towel and then apply antibacterial cream. Cover it with gauze and secure with hypoallergenic tape to help protect the skin and prevent infection. Change the dressing at least once a day and wear different shoes until the blister heals.

Corns

Don't try to cut the corn or remove it with a sharp object. After you have a bath or shower, while your skin is still soft, use a pumice stone or an emery board to smooth and gently remove the build-up of tissue. Move the emery board or pumice stone in one direction only. You can also use cushioned or medicated pads.

Calluses

Don't try to cut the callus or remove it with a sharp object. After your bath or shower, use a pumice stone to gently remove the build-up of tissue. You can also use cushioned pads and in-soles. Your doctor may prescribe medications to soften the callus.