NHS LOTHIAN | PODIATRY SERVICE
Hard Skin (Callous)
Hard skin, also known as a callous, is an area of thickened skin that builds up over time. It is the body’s natural response to repeated pressure and friction.
It most commonly develops on the ball of the foot, the heel, or the sides of the toes.
What is hard skin (callous)?
Hard skin, also known as a callous, is an area of thickened skin that builds up over time. It is the body’s natural response to repeated pressure and friction. It most commonly develops on the ball of the foot, the heel, or the sides of the toes. It may feel rough or tough to touch and can sometimes be uncomfortable in shoes.
Most hard skin can be managed at home — by yourself, with help from a family member or friend, or with a private podiatrist if needed.
NHS Podiatry does not routinely treat hard skin. Most people manage well at home. If your hard skin is causing significant pain and is not improving despite regular self-care, contact your podiatry department for advice.
What causes hard skin?
- Shoes that do not fit well or cause friction
- Increased activity or time on your feet
- Changes in body weight
- Conditions that alter the shape of the foot, such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Loss of the natural fat pad on the sole of the foot with age
Are you at higher risk?
If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, do not use sharp instruments or electric callous removers on your feet. Use a foot file or pumice stone gently instead and ask a family member or friend to help if needed. If your hard skin is causing any skin damage or pain, see when to contact your podiatry department before attempting treatment.
What you can do at home
Filing:
File hard skin regularly using a pumice stone or handheld foot file. Little and often works better than tackling very thick skin all at once. Aim to file after a bath or shower when the skin is softer. Do not use sharp instruments or blades to cut or pare the skin yourself.
If you find it hard to reach your feet, ask a family member or friend to help.
Moisturising:
Apply a good foot moisturiser or emollient to the affected area every day. This keeps the skin soft and helps prevent hard skin from building up.
Avoid moisturising between the toes, keeping this area dry helps prevent fungal infections.
Footwear:
Ill-fitting shoes are one of the most common causes of hard skin. Check there is a full thumb’s width between your longest toe and the end of the shoe, and that nothing is rubbing or pressing on the foot.
Well-fitting shoes reduce pressure and allow skin to recover.
When to contact your podiatry department
Hard skin that is not causing pain or skin breakdown does not need medical attention. Contact your podiatry department if:
- your hard skin is turning dark purple or black — this may indicate skin breakdown underneath
- the surrounding skin becomes red, hot or swollen
- there is fluid or pus leaking from the area
Need more support?
If home care is not possible and you have no one to help, a private podiatrist can provide regular hard skin management. Always check they are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) at www.hcpc-uk.org.
Affordable local foot care services may also be available — your GP surgery or local council can advise.
Self-Referral Form
CONTACT INFORMATION
NHS Lothian Podiatry
Mon-Thu: 8:30am-4pm
Fri: 8am-3:30pm
Telephone: (0131) 536 1627
ABOUT US
Podiatrists are allied healthcare professionals trained to help prevent, diagnose, and treat problems affecting your feet and lower limbs.
Podiatry’s primary aim is to improve the mobility, independence, and quality of life for their patients.
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