01Hyperkeratosis
Regular carePODÉA CareCorns, calluses and cracked heels
Hard skin is the body's protection against pressure and friction. When pressure repeats, the skin thickens more than it should, becomes painful and may crack. A corn has a hard core that presses deep into the skin.
Hyperkeratosis
02
Common forms
- 01Callus over weight-bearing areas
- 02Corn, with a core that hurts under pressure
- 03Soft corn between the toes
- 04Dry, cracked heels, sometimes with deep fissures that bleed
03
Professional care
Excess skin is removed layer by layer with sterilised instruments, without touching healthy tissue. A corn is carefully removed from its centre, and pressure in the area usually eases right after treatment.
For cracked heels, the thick skin is reduced and softened so the fissures can close more easily with regular care at home.
04
Prevention
- 01Shoes of the right size and width
- 02Urea cream for dry skin, as advised
- 03Regular check-ups if calluses keep returning
- 04Orthotic insoles when pressure comes from the way you walk; we refer you to a specialist for this
05Medical note
Do not cut the skin yourself, and seek an assessment if:
- You have diabetes or poor circulation
- The skin under a callus darkens, bleeds or weeps
- The area is hot, red or swollen
- The lesion hurts more when squeezed from the sides; it may be a wart that needs different treatment
06Related services
Calluses are linked to pressure. Unless the cause changes, they usually return.