This article explores the similarities and differences among corns and calluses.
They most commonly develop where the skin is thin andglabrous(meaning, hairless and smooth).
Corns differ from callusesin that they have a hard core surrounded by inflamed skin.
Andrew Bossi / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5
Because their shape is typically well-defined, they can often be mistaken forwarts.
Unlike corns, it is possible for a wart to bleed.
There are two types of corns: soft corns and hard corns.
They tend to be whitish in color with a rubbery, pliable texture.
They tend to be small and circular and co-exist with calluses.
Rounding out the list are tiny “seed corns” that commonly develop on the ball of the foot.
Despite their small size, they’re still painful.
Calluses
Calluses are less-defined patches of thickened skin.
The skin can sometimes be smooth and hard or rough, dry, and patchy.
The only time a callus causes pain is when it cracks and exposes the underlying tissue.
There is also a wide variety of over-the-counter corn removers that typically containsalicylicacid.
Always see a doctor.
Pain or bleeding is an indication that the deeper layers of skin have been affected.
Ignoring these symptoms may result in otherwise avoidable complications, such as infection or ulceration.
It’s important to note thatcorns and calluses will often return even after effective treatment.
If they become problematic, surgery may be an option (especially for corns).
This option should be considered only if all other conservative forms of treatment have failed to provide relief.
They’re similar yet different.
Corns differ from calluses in that they have a hard core surrounded by inflamed skin.
Calluses are less-defined patches of thickened skin.
Most corns and calluses do not require medical treatment and can be tended to at home with over-the-counter products.
Still, if a corn becomes painful or bleeds, have a podiatrist look at it.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to treat corns and calluses.
Kaiser Permanente.Calluses and corns.
