Live to 100 speaks with Joanne Smith, the office manager at UK Callus Peel Ltd, about the best ways of treating calluses. Joanne is a qualified beauty therapist with two distinctions in Beauty Therapy and Body Sciences.
How can calluses be prevented?
One of the leading causes of calluses is ill-fitting shoes; ensure you select a pair with a good overall fit that doesn’t rub. Choose shoes that are well-cushioned if you walk frequently. If you have wide feet you may consider finding a pair with wide toe boxes. You can also use regular peel treatments every two to three weeks and try to keep your feet well moisturised—this should ward off calluses and corns.
What are the main causes of calluses?
Calluses are caused by regular trauma to the heels and balls of the feet from walking or exercising. The skin’s natural defense mechanism causes the skin on the feet to develop calluses to create padding to withstand daily movements.
How important is foot care for individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes?
Diabetics are known to have a reduced blood flow to the feet, leaving them more susceptible to calluses. These lesions and cracks can lead to more severe infections; diabetics are especially prone to these. With this in mind, foot care is vital for them and those who suffer from other similar conditions. As a precaution they should check their feet regularly for cuts and scrapes or consult a doctor who can suggest a specialised foot care regime.
How can I remove dry skin safely at home without having to visit a specialist?
Use a kit that includes a four-step system that cleans, removes, files and then softens the area—making treating calluses in the comfort of your own home easy and straightforward. These kits will usually include a device to peel or file the callus down and a lotion for soothing. Alternatively, there are dissolving gels on the market that cool the area and loosen hard skin; this can then be filed off for a smooth and callus-free finish.
What are the kind of complications that can arise from leaving calluses untreated?
Sore, cracked feet and infections. This can make walking difficult and mean everyday activities are hindered. Another negative effect is low self-esteem due to not being happy with the appearance of your feet. Some people may not feel comfortable wearing sandals or more open shoes on account of their anxiety. Treating calluses can help alleviate these issues and lead to a happier life.
How do home callus-remover kits compare to professional and specialist care?
Treating calluses at home ensures that you do not have to go and visit a salon which can be costly to keep up. You can use a callus remover kit at home and keep on top of the treatments yourself. In the UK Callus Peel treatment no blades are used.
Salon treatments are very much similar to ones at home. Both involve similar steps; the key difference is in who is carrying out the process. Your beautician will have experience in treating severely cracked feet, however, you may feel more relaxed conducting the treatment yourself in the comfort of your own home. Salon visits can also be costly to keep up with on a regular basis. Also, at-home treatments don’t leave room for any cross contamination of products or equipment.
What are some simple pointers to keep feet healthy and pain free?
Some of the main ways to keep feet healthy are to wear suitable shoes, to remove thick skin, to soak your feet frequently and to moisturise your skin. Developing a routine can be very beneficial—some people like to apply their own care process each evening. This may start with soaking your feet in a warm foot bath, gently exfoliating, removing any dead or hard bits of skin and finally applying a nourishing lotion.
I have recently had a callus removed, how can I prevent future infection?
Keeping feet clean is imperative; if cracks appear make sure to clean them with antiseptic and then cover them with a bandage or plaster. It is vital to keep dirt away from open wounds on your feet to ward off infection. It may be a good idea to avoid walking barefoot as well. Try to clean your feet regularly with soap, drying thoroughly after with a clean towel.
How should I properly care for my feet after I’ve had a callus removed and treated?
You must keep your feet clean and moisturise at least twice daily. This will ensure that your feet remain hydrated and soft to prevent the skin from drying out. You may want to go for a checkup with a foot specialist just to be safe, or alternatively ask someone to check your feet for any signs of the callus reappearing.
What kind of products are best when treating calluses and which ones should I stay away from?
Natural callus removers are the best product to use as they are safe and gentle and do not use blades to remove the callus. Callus removers that involve blades or high percentages of harsh chemicals are not advised, as they can be too much for the feet to withstand and can actually encourage the callus to return early. Harsh chemicals can also cause chemical burns to the feet and take a long time to heal.
About the Company
UK Callus Peel is a unique foot treatment, which uses a simple four-step system to remove calluses. The formula containing over 99 percent natural ingredients from fruit acids and fruit extracts makes it suitable for use during pregnancy and for people with diabetes. The UK Callus Peel Kit contains enough for five treatments which includes a 50ml bottle of Callus Remover, Water Spray bottle, Foot File Scraper and 10 Foot File Replacement pads. We also sell UK Callus Peel Aftercare Cream to keep on top of your newly softened feet.
If you have enjoyed this article on treating calluses, click here to read our Healthy Feet Guide on Celebrity Angels.
