I’ve had calluses on both my hands and feet for years and even though it doesn’t hurt, I’m embarrassed when I shake hands cause it’s rough. Mine is caused by mopping floors daily, especially in my palms. If you’re facing the same problem, here is how to get rid of calluses on hands naturally and fast.

What Are Calluses + Causes?

According to Wikipedia “A callus is an area of thickened and sometimes hardened skin that forms as a response to repeated friction, pressure, or other irritation. Since repeated contact is required, calluses are most often found on the feet and hands.”

So if you use your hands often for weight lifting, sports, gardening, cleaning, or chores without protection like gloves, you can get calluses on your hands. Also, runners or people who wear ill fitting or hard shoes can get calluses on their feet.

Are Hand Calluses Unhealthy?

No, hand calluses are harmless and do not affect your overall health. However, although uncommon, some vitamin deficiencies like vitamins A & D can cause dry skin and promote the formation of calluses. Additionally, hand calluses may also be beneficial cause they help prevent blisters from forming.

Can Calluses On Hands Go Away?

Yes, since calluses are causes by repeated friction, it may take some time but usually goes away once the cause is addressed. Also, there are a few home remedies that may help reduce calluses on hands but they usually return.

How To Get Rid Of Calluses On Hands

1. Hand Soak

Similar to soaking your feet to remove calluses, you can soak your hands to get rid of calluses as well. Simply pour some warm water into a large bowl and mix in a tablespoon of Epsom salt. Mix well until the salt melts and soak your hands for 10-20 minutes.

Now grab a pumice stone or a file and gently begin to scrub the dead skin in a circular motion. Make sure not to scrub too hard. You will be surprised by how easily the dead skin comes off. If you don’t have Epsom salt, you can use pink salt or rock salt.

2. Moisturizing

Using castor or coconut oil to moisturize your calluses may even prevent them from returning. I’ve heard that some people use castor oil on their calluses and after a week, it goes away without scrubbing. 

I have not tried using both oils without going through the first step so I don’t know how true it is. However, I do know that moisturizing your hands daily with either of the oils above will make your calluses take longer to return. I hear that tea tree oil or Frankincense oil mixed with castor oil works wonders on calluses.

I personally prefer castor oil because of how well it penetrates and soften the skin. I’ve used it for years for almost all skin issues and it really helps.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda helps remove dead skin cells and softens calluses. When combined with fresh lemon juice, it becomes more effective. That’s because lemon juice contains acids which helps break down and neutralize acids in the skin. This is one of my favorite home remedies for calluses.

To make this baking soda and lemon callus remedy, you have 2 options. First, take 2 tablespoons of baking soda and squeeze in lemon juice until you form a paste. Apply it to the callus and using  a pumice stone, begin to rub gently for a minute or two.

Method #2 – in a bowl large enough to fit your hands, add warm water and mix in 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Soak your hands in it for 10-20 minutes. Once done, you can either scrub off the callus with a pumice stone or a file.

5. How To Prevent Calluses On Hands

To prevent calluses on your hands you will need to keep your hands hydrated daily by using a moisturizer. You will also need to wear gloves when doing activities that causes friction. Since friction is the main cause of calluses, using a good pair of gloves will protect your hands.

Conclusion

Now you know how to get rid of calluses on your hands naturally at home. If you found this post helpful, make sure to share it with your friends. You can also find me on Pinterest and Facebook for more awesome tips. Until next time, stay awesome.