The difference between corns and calluses.

Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
Updated on April 07, 2025
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Firstly, a corn is a type of common wart, and it actually has clear differences from a callus. Common warts generally occur on the soles of the feet, or on the proliferative protruding surface, typically characterized by specific manifestations. In such cases, there usually are also prominent manifestations, and these conditions can also cause some minor pain.

On the other hand, calluses are completely the opposite of corns. The surface of a callus is generally not protruding, meaning the skin is flat and usually quite smooth. In this respect, there is a fundamental difference on the surface. Moreover, calluses can potentially be caused by local compression factors.

As for corns, they are usually caused by lowered immunity. That is, viral infections are what lead to the problem of corns.

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Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
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Is it useful to use corn plasters for warts?

Using corn plasters for cuticles is not very effective and is not recommended. Corn plasters are a treatment method for corns because cuticles, also known as hangnails, generally result from abnormal growth in the nail groove, nail biting, improper nail trimming, or excessive friction. It is generally advised that if the nail grows a cuticle, it is best to trim it short and avoid biting the cuticle to prevent scarring and infection. Regular application of moisturizer is recommended, and one should not pick, pull, or twist the cuticle. Developing a habit of skincare and protecting the stratum corneum is encouraged.

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Written by Liu Gang
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Corns are formed by the thickening of the skin in response to pressure and friction.

Corns are primarily caused by the prolonged and repeated irritation from foreign objects entering the skin, and they are also somewhat related to one’s walking habits or footwear. Once formed, they can be painful, and in severe cases, may lead to pus-filled infections. Typically, corns can be effectively treated with common corn plasters. If the treatment with corn plasters proves ineffective, one can seek cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen at a dermatology department in a standard hospital. In more severe cases, surgical removal may be necessary. Generally, corns can be completely cured using these methods. It is advisable to wear loose-fitting shoes regularly, avoid tight shoes that compress the feet, and not walk barefoot to prevent foreign objects from re-entering the skin and causing a recurrence of the condition. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What will a worsening corn turn into?

Severe deterioration of corns usually affects walking. When corns appear, treatment options include using corn ointment, choosing carbon dioxide laser treatment, or cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen. Corns mainly result from prolonged compression and friction of the soft tissues of the sole, leading to this skin condition and causing localized pain. If corns develop, it is important to rest and avoid standing or walking for long periods. Also, avoid wearing shoes with very hard soles to prevent the recurrence of corns. When dealing with corns, soaking the feet in warm water to promote blood circulation and prevent the thickening of the skin can be beneficial. Diet-wise, it is advisable to choose low-fat foods.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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Can corn plasters be used for warts?

Warts are commonly caused by a viral infection and are a type of common wart. These warts can be removed or improved through physical treatments or medications, such as laser or cryotherapy. Using corn plasters can also be effective in these cases. Because the affected area is stimulated, there might be a noticeable change. If this change can be effectively managed, it can lead to successful treatment. Corn plasters can achieve this therapeutic effect. Although corn plasters are not highly specific, they do have some therapeutic effects. Furthermore, it is advisable to enhance the immune system. Specific antiviral treatments can be more effective and can be combined with other methods to judge and treat the condition. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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The difference between plantar warts and corns

Toe warts and corns are both skin diseases that occur on the feet, but they are entirely different diseases, and many people easily confuse toe warts with corns. First, the causes of toe warts and corns are different. The occurrence of corns is greatly related to compression and friction, while toe warts are mainly caused by viral infections due to reasons such as low immunity. Secondly, their contagiousness is different; corns are not contagious, while toe warts are highly contagious.