Over-The-Counter Corn Treatments

Corns are hardened, raised bumps of skin that commonly occur on the toes in response to pressure or friction. Ill-fitting shoes, excessive time spent standing or walking, being flat-footed, and advanced age can be contributing factors for developing corns.

There are over-the-counter treatments available to treat corns. Over-the-counter remedies for corns usually contain acid that attacks the hardened skin of the corn. Keep in mind that the acid may also damage the surrounding, healthy skin. Be careful to follow the directions to minimize any such damage.

Corn pads or corn cushions without acid are used to protect the corn from any additional friction from shoes. They are foam, donut-shaped cushions. They will not remove the corn, but they can prevent it from getting worse.

Corn plasters are over-the-counter corn treatments. They are felt pads that contain an acid, often salicylic acid. Before applying a corn plaster, the person may want to jumpstart the treatment by soaking the foot for at least ten minutes, then removing some of the hard skin by rubbing the corn with a pumice stone. The foot should be dried thoroughly before the corn removal pad is applied.

Though over-the-counter treatments may eliminate the corn, it is likely to recur unless the cause has been addressed. If the corn was caused by friction from ill-fitting shoes and the person continues to wear shoes that don’t fit properly, the corn is likely to return. If the corn was caused by hammertoe, that deformity needs to be corrected by a podiatrist in order to stop corns from forming.

People with diabetes or atherosclerosis should avoid attempting to remedy foot problems on their own. They should seek medical attention for foot problems. Some doctors warn against the use of over-the-counter corn removers due to risk of infection or injury to healthy skin.