Worried about heel calluses, how to make them smooth?

Do not scrub; use a keratolytic agent.

Many people use methods such as scrubbing with rough tools like foot butter or pumice stones during showers or baths to remove dead skin. However, this is not advisable. Physically removing dead skin may provide immediate results, but it can cause excessive irritation to the skin. Rubbing vigorously can lead to bleeding and increase the risk of bacterial infection. The same applies when using nail clippers, knives, scissors, or similar tools.

If it is unavoidable to use a physical method, it is highly recommended to use a buffer with low strength on dry feet. Soaking the feet in water and then exfoliating can cause dead and living cells to become entangled and fall off. Therefore, side effects such as the skin thickening the stratum corneum to protect itself may occur.

The best way to remove dead skin is to use a keratolytic agent. Keratolytic agents are acidic and have the effect of softening and smoothing dead skin. They can be purchased over-the-counter at pharmacies without a doctor's prescription. Usually, using a keratolytic agent for 1 to 2 weeks will completely eliminate dead skin. However, after using a keratolytic agent, it is important to apply foot cream or oil to moisturize and care for the skin.

Meanwhile, diabetic patients need to pay extra attention to foot care during the summer because they are at risk of diabetic foot, a complication of diabetes. Diabetic foot is a condition where small wounds on the foot can lead to ulcers. To prevent this, it is important not to forcibly peel off calluses, and it is also recommended to wear cotton socks that absorb sweat well even in summer. Wounds that form without the patient realizing can increase the risk of diabetic foot. Check your feet every night before bed, and if there are any symptoms different from usual, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. For diabetic patients with calluses on their feet, wash their feet thoroughly in warm water every night, dry them well, and immediately apply a moisturizer like Vaseline. Then, wearing socks and sleeping helps reduce calluses and makes the heels softer.