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Calluses and Corns: Using Pumice Stones

Topic Overview

A pumice stone can be used to remove the dead skin from a callus or corn. Reducing the size of the callus or corn may result in less pressure or friction and less pain.

  • Soak your foot or other affected area in warm, soapy water for 5 minutes or until the skin softens.
  • Wet the pumice stone.
  • Rub the pumice stone on the wet callus or corn with light to medium pressure for 2 to 3 minutes. This will remove dead skin.

Use the stone daily, and rinse the stone after each use.

Be careful when using a pumice stone. If you take off too much skin and go too deep, it can result in bleeding and infection.

If you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, peripheral neuropathy, or other conditions that cause circulatory problems or numbness, consult your doctor before trying any treatment for calluses or corns.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Barry L. Scurran, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
Last Revised November 21, 2011

Last Revised: November 21, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Barry L. Scurran, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery

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