Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsCommon CausesWith No Obvious ReasonRemovalPrevention
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Common Causes
With No Obvious Reason
Removal
Prevention
Calluses are hardened, thickened patches of dead skin that form on the hands or feet. They form as a physical response to repeated friction and pressure. They’re usually flat and do not contain a central core.
Anyone who uses their hands or fingers a lot can develop calluses, and any part of the hand can be affected. For example, you can get a callus on the fingertip if you use a pen or pencil often, on the base of one or more fingers if you grip tools or rackets, or on the palms if you perform manual labor. While calluses are not dangerous and do not lead to complications, they can be painful and uncomfortable.
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4 Common Causes of Finger and Hand Calluses
1. Writer’s Callus
A writer’s callus or “writer’s bump” can form in people who frequently use writing utensils like pens or pencils. They tend to develop on the fingertips or near the outer joint of the middle, ring, or index fingers.This type is prevalent among students and other people who frequently use writing tools.
2. Gym Hands
3. Labor-Intensive Work
People working labor-intensive jobs may also develop calluses due to their work or using specific tools. The location of calluses depends on the part of the hands or fingers that face the most pressure and friction. For example, people who garden, do woodwork, or regularly perform other types of manual labor may develop calluses below the fingers or at the base of the palm.
4. Playing Guitar
Playing string instruments can put pressure on the fingertips and cause calluses to form. Guitarists, violinists, and other string players commonly develop these on their nondominant hands from practicing and playing. They’re slightly more common on the middle, ring, and pinky fingers, though the index finger can be affected, too.
Can Calluses Develop on Your Hands for No Reason?
In rare cases, certain diseases can cause calluses or significantly raise the risk of developing them. Diseases associated with this issue include:
How to Get Rid of Calluses on the Hands
Epsom Salts
Soak your hand(s) in a warm water solution with Epsom salts for five to ten minutes to help prepare calluses for removal with a pumice stone or other methods. Solutions of water and Epsom salts remove dead skin cells and help soften the skin.
Pumice Stone
Since calluses are made up of layers of dead skin, you can use the rough edges of a pumice stone or nail file to rub away callused skin. After soaking and drying your hands, dip the pumice stone in warm water and use gentle, circular strokes to remove calluses.
Exfoliating Cream
Exfoliating creams remove layers of dead skin, and lotions moisturize and soften skin. Regularly apply creams containing ingredients like urea and ammonium to help manage calluses and make them easier to remove.
Baking Soda Paste
Skin-Softening Cream
Creams designed to soften and moisturize the skin can also help manage calluses. Try using products containingjojobaoil, Shea butter, and others every morning and evening; over time, this should gradually soften the callus.
Salicylic Acid
Over-the-counter (OTC)salicylic acidproducts are designed to treat corns, warts, and calluses. Salicylic acid is available in various forms, such as medicated pads, lotions, liquids, or gels. It is very effective in removing dead skin cells; however, use it cautiously, as it can damage healthy skin.
Other Options
In rare cases—if the calluses are painful, persistent, and seriously impacting your quality of life—medical procedures may help. Adermatologist(skin health specialist) can file away calluses in the clinic or hospital.
Ways to Prevent Calluses on Hands and Fingers
Preventing calluses on your hands and fingers primarily means changing behaviors and taking steps to protect your skin. Several strategies can help, such as:
Summary
Hand calluses are thickened, hard patches of skin that form in response to repeated pressure and friction. You can typically manage calluses at home using a combination of regular moisturizing and exfoliation and careful filing with a pumice stone. Solutions containing salicylic acid, urea, and other compounds can also help. Protecting the hands and fingers while working with the hands or lifting weights can help prevent this issue.
8 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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