Many resort to drastic measures to remove calluses on their feet.
Few are aware that an important protective barrier is damaged in the process.
If you want to have healthy feet, you have to take care of them regularly.
Many use a planer, rasp and file to tackle thickened and hard skin areas.
But calluses on the soles of the feet are more beneficial than many think.
Because although the thick layer of skin doesn't look particularly pretty, it serves an important purpose.
In a scientific study, researchers at Harvard University examined the benefits of thickened skin.
According to the experts, calluses should never be completely removed.
Barrier against bacteria, protection against injuries: tasks of the cornea
Calluses on the feet are caused by a collection of horny cells, also called corneocytes.
These migrate to the surface of the skin in the epidermis and gradually accumulate to form thickenings.
Although these look ugly, they fulfill an important task for the body.
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Calluses protect the feet from pressure points and injuries.
It should therefore not be completely removed (symbol image).
© Panthermedia / Imago
The cornea has a natural and important protective function.
It acts as a barrier against bacteria and protects the foot from injuries, as the scientists led by Nicholas Holowka found out in their study.
As part of the analysis, the scientists examined around 81 volunteers from Kenya and 22 volunteers from the USA.
The results were published in the journal "Nature".
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When calluses should be removed
The researchers also found out that the cornea not only serves as a natural protection due to evolution.
A thicker skin layer does not have a negative effect on the ability to perceive tactile stimuli.
Those who walk barefoot and develop calluses also have healthier feet than people who wear shoes.
However, if the pressure on the skin is too great, for example due to ill-fitting shoes, the cornea can also become disturbed and painful.
In this case, it is advisable to remove the callus in a skin-friendly manner.
The right care depending on your skin type: how to best care for dry, oily or sensitive skin
The right care depending on your skin type: how to best care for dry, oily or sensitive skin
How to care for your feet
If you want well-groomed feet, you should file your nails once a week.
Daily hygiene helps against cheese feet, the smell of which is due to heavy sweating on the feet.
Foot baths or a mask are also good for the feet and prevent too much callus from forming.
Experts recommend never scrubbing the callus.
Just a pumice stone is anything but suitable.
Because of the pressure, friction and heat when rubbing away with the natural stone, exactly the opposite of what was intended happens: the skin cells underneath get the signal to produce even more calluses.
Planes, scissors and scalpels also harbor a high risk of injury and should therefore definitely be left to foot care.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor. Unfortunately, our editors are not allowed to answer individual questions about clinical pictures.
List of rubrics: © Panthermedia / Imago
