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Conditions We Treat

Corns & Calluses

At Livingstone Dermatology, we understand that your skin is a reflection of your health and well-being. We are committed to the latest advancements in dermatological science, and dedicated to providing you with quality care.

Overview

Corns and calluses are among the most common skin problems affecting the feet and hands. Almost everyone experiences them at some point, especially those who spend long hours standing, walking or wearing tight shoes. Though not dangerous, they can be painful, unsightly and frustratingly persistent, often interfering with daily comfort and mobility.

Many people choose to have them treated not just for relief but also for confidence, whether to walk more comfortably, wear open footwear without embarrassment or prevent worsening pain that alters gait. But with professional dermatological care, corns and calluses can be treated safely and effectively, often with immediate relief.

corns and calluses Singapore.
Corns and calluses are a common skin concern, especially among people who spend long hours on their feet or wear tight shoes.

What are Corns and Calluses?

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened and hardened skin that form in response to repeated friction or pressure. This thickening is the skin’s way of protecting itself by producing more keratin. But slowly, the build-up becomes uncomfortable.

The 2 skin conditions are characterised by:

  • Corns are smaller, round and typically develop over bony areas such as the tops or sides of the toes. They often have a central core that presses inward, causing pain when walked on or squeezed.
  • Calluses are broader and flatter areas of thickened skin that form where pressure is spread more evenly, such as the heels, soles or palms.

What are the different types of Corns?

Dermatologists classify corn into several types, each with distinct features:

  • Hard corns – firm, dense and found over pressure points like toe joints.
  • Soft corns – white and rubbery, commonly forming between toes where moisture collects.
  • Seed corns – small, dot-like corns on the soles, often tender when walking.
  • Vascular or neurovascular corns – certain tiny blood vessels or nerve endings, making them painful and sometimes prone to bleeding.
  • Fibrous corns – long-standing corns that have grown deeper and attached to underlying tissues.

What is the difference between a Corn and a Callus?

While both are caused by friction and pressure, they differ in structure, depth and location, such as:

FEATURE CORN CALLUS
Appearance Small, round and cone-shaped thickening Broad, flat and diffuse thickening
Texture Firm centre with a dense core Evenly rough or waxy surface
Location Over joints, tops or sides of the toes Soles of the feet, heels and palms
Pain Often painful when pressed Usually painless unless cracked

What causes Corns and Calluses?

The main mechanism behind both conditions is repeated friction or pressure that stimulates excess keratin production. When the outer skin layer thickens, it forms a protective shield. But in doing so, it creates hardened areas that can become painful.

What are the symptoms of Corns and Calluses?

Both conditions are usually easy to identify by sight and touch, as they have the following characteristics:

  • A raised bump or circular core (in corns)
  • A waxy or yellowish surface on affected spots
  • Rough, thickened or hardened skin patches
  • Dry, flaky or cracked skin on pressure points
  • Pain or tenderness when walking or pressing on the affected area

But if the skin becomes red, swollen or starts to ooze, it may signal infection. This requires immediate medical attention.

Who is at risk of developing Corns and Calluses?

Anyone can develop them, but some factors make certain people more susceptible. These risks do not directly cause corns or calluses. Instead, it increases the likelihood of pressure and friction that lead to them.

calluses on the palms.
Calluses can form on the hands or palms from repeated friction, such as from manual work, sports or instrument playing.

This includes:

  • Age – corns and calluses are more common in older adults, especially among those who are 65 years old and older. With age, skin becomes thinner and less elastic, with the natural cushioning on the feet decreasing.
  • Health conditions – individuals who are diagnosed with diabetes or have poor circulation may have skin that heals more slowly and pressure injuries may worsen unnoticed.
  • People with foot deformities – conditions like bunions, hammertoes or overlapping toes shift pressure abnormally.
  • People who lead an active lifestyle – runners, hikers and sports enthusiasts often experience repeated rubbing in specific areas.
  • People who stand or walk for long hours – occupations like teaching, retail or healthcare increase repetitive stress on the feet.
  • People who wear tight, narrow or high-heeled shoes – more pressure builds on the toes and forefoot.

How are Corns and Calluses diagnosed?

The diagnostic process is straightforward and it is typically done through a physical examination. It entails:

Our dermatologist will begin by discussing your symptoms and lifestyle, including:

  • When you first notice the thickened skin, and whether it is painful or tender.
  • Any repetitive activities that put pressure or friction on your feet or hands, such as walking, engaging in sports and manual work.
  • Footwear habits, such as tight shoes or high heels.
  • Any previous foot problems, deformities or gait changes.
  • Underlying conditions like diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, which may affect sensation or healing.

Our dermatologist will then proceed to examine the affected skin closely to assess:

  • The size, shape and thickness of the lesion.
  • Whether the hardened skin is:
    • Localised – suggesting a corn
    • Spread out – suggesting a callus
  • The presence of a central core, which is a defining feature of a corn.
  • The level of tenderness when pressure is applied.
  • Any surrounding redness, cracks or signs of infection

Because corns and calluses often result from friction and abnormal pressure, our dermatologist may also:

  • Observe your foot structure and alignment, checking for bunions, hammertoes or other deformities.
  • Evaluate gait and posture to identify uneven weight distribution when walking.
  • Examine footwear fit and wear patterns, which can reveal areas of repeated friction.
  • For patients with diabetes or poor circulation, additional tests may be done to ensure adequate blood flow and nerve sensation.

How are Corns and Calluses treated in Singapore?

The treatment focuses on reducing pain, restoring comfort and preventing recurrence. Depending on your condition, our dermatologist may recommend:

  • Professional removal (debridement) – thickened skin is carefully trimmed using sterile tools. This is painless, provides immediate relief and restores smoothness without damaging healthy tissue.
  • Medicated creams – topical creams with urea, lactic acid or salicylic acid gently dissolve excess keratin, softening the skin over time.
  • Footwear and padding – custom insoles, silicone pads or toe separators help distribute pressure evenly and prevent friction. Supportive shoes with a roomy toe box are also key.
  • Orthotic support – for those with structural issues or abnormal gait, orthotic inserts can correct pressure imbalance and prevent new lesions.
  • Addressing underlying causes – foot deformities, thick toenails or chronic friction may need longer-term management or corrective procedures.
treatment for corns and calluses.
Professional dermatological treatment can gently remove thickened skin, relieve pressure and restore comfort in walking or using the hands.

Book an Appointment

Corns and calluses are common, preventable and treatable skin conditions caused by repeated friction or pressure. Although often minor, they can cause significant pain or inconvenience if left unattended.

Professional dermatological care can alleviate discomfort, restore smoothness and prevent recurrence by addressing the underlying cause. At Livingstone Dermatology, we combine safe and effective treatment with tailored advice to help you stay comfortable and confident every step of the way.

If you have been experiencing discomfort or pain due to thickened skin, then do book an appointment to have it evaluated and treated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are corns and calluses contagious?

No. They form due to friction, not infection.

Yes, with the right care and habits, they can often be avoided. Some of the tips you can practice are:

  • Use protective padding or insoles to reduce friction.
  • Wear well-fitting shoes that support and cushion the feet.
  • Alternate footwear to avoid constant pressure in one area.
  • Keep toenails trimmed to prevent pressure on surrounding skin.
  • Moisture daily to keep the skin soft and less prone to thickening.
  • Use a pumice stone gently.
  • Check your feet regularly, especially if you have diabetes or circulation problems.

It is important to avoid cutting or using harsh medicated plasters without guidance. This is because improper use can burn or damage healthy skin.

You will feel relief immediately after removal, but full healing and smoothness may take a few days.

If the same pressure or friction continues, new corns or calluses may form, which is why addressing the cause is key.

If you experience pain, infection or recurrent corns or if you have diabetes or circulation issues, professional care is strongly advised.

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Cosmetic Dermatology

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Whether you’re dealing with a specific skin concern or seeking to enhance your natural beauty, Livingstone Dermatology is here to guide you on your journey to healthy, radiant skin. 

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