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Calluses formed from holding a pen, also known as pen-induced calluses, are thickened layers of skin that develop on the fingers to protect them from pressure or friction caused by frequent contact with the pen. Typically, these calluses are harmless and do not cause pain. They are simply a way the body defends itself. There are several simple and effective methods to help you remove stubborn calluses on your hands.
Steps
How to Care for Pen Calluses at Home
When writing, try to minimize the pressure on your fingers. Calluses are a protective mechanism from your body to prevent irritation on your sensitive skin. You can remove these calluses by reducing friction while holding the pen.
- Loosen your grip when writing. If you hold the pen too tightly, it will rub against your skin and leave imprints. Relax while writing, and periodically stretch your hand to remind yourself not to squeeze or press the pen too hard.
Protect your hands further by using soft gloves or velvet fabric pads. This will help keep your skin smooth and protect it from direct contact with the pen.
- If the weather isn’t right for wearing thin gloves, you can wrap band-aids or velvet fabric around the callused fingers instead.
- You can create a donut-shaped pad by folding velvet fabric and cutting out half a circle. Place this pad over the callus area to reduce the pressure on it.
- Alternatively, you can equip your pen with a pad to make it gentler when you hold it.
Washing and soaking your hands in warm soapy water will help soften the thick layers of dead skin cells.
- Keep your hands submerged in the soapy water until the skin around the callus becomes wrinkled, then gently massage the area.
Use natural solutions for soaking your hands. This method softens and exfoliates the dead skin around the callus. You can try different approaches and select the one that works best for you. Soak your hands for at least 10 minutes for the best results.
- Soak the callus in warm water mixed with Epsom salt solution. Follow the instructions on the packaging to adjust the salt-to-water ratio.
- Another option is to dissolve baking soda in warm water. Baking soda is a natural exfoliant.
- Additionally, you can soak your hands in hot chamomile tea. Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe irritation caused by friction between your hand and the pen.
- You can also try a mixture of beaver oil and apple cider vinegar. The moisturizing properties of the oil and the acidic nature of the vinegar help soften and rejuvenate the skin.
Exfoliate the dead skin using a nail file, emery board, pumice stone, or loofah sponge. Since the dead skin layer is no longer alive, it won’t hurt, but avoid excessive scrubbing as it could damage the sensitive skin underneath. Repeat the process for several days for optimal results.
- Avoid using a pumice stone if you have a history of diabetes as it may increase the risk of infection.
- Do not cut off the callused skin as it could cause deeper injury beneath the surface.
Apply moisturizing cream to soften the calluses. Gently massage the callused area and the surrounding skin with moisturizing cream. You can either purchase moisturizing cream or make your own at home with ingredients like:
- Vitamin E oil
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- Aloe vera. You can buy pre-made aloe vera gel or, if you grow aloe at home, cut a leaf open and apply the gel directly to the callus.
Use naturally acidic household ingredients to soften calluses and exfoliate dead skin cells. Apply the mixture directly to the affected area, then cover with a bandage for several hours or overnight to maximize results. Here are some remedies to eliminate darkened calluses:
- Lemon juice, use a cotton ball to soak in lemon juice
- Vinegar, use a cotton ball to soak in vinegar
- A slice of raw onion, soaked in a mix of lemon juice and salt or vinegar
Use Pharmaceuticals and Medical Treatment Methods
Try over-the-counter treatments to remove calluses. You can apply a pad containing salicylic acid to the callus.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for replacing the pad, or as advised by a doctor. Be cautious with these treatments as they may affect the sensitive surrounding skin.
- Do not use these methods if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or numbness in the area. In such cases, consult a doctor for advice.
Use aspirin as an alternative to salicylic acid. By grinding aspirin, you can create your own homemade remedy.
- Grind five aspirin tablets and mix them with half a teaspoon of lemon juice and half a teaspoon of water. Stir until it forms a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the callus, avoiding healthy surrounding skin.
- Cover the callus with plastic wrap, then wrap it with a warm towel for 10 minutes. Afterward, remove the paste and any peeling skin.
Consult a doctor if the above methods are ineffective. A doctor can examine the area to confirm if it's a callus.
- The doctor may prescribe a stronger medication to treat the callus.
- In some cases, the doctor may opt to surgically remove the callus.
Contact a healthcare professional immediately if your callus shows signs of infection. In most cases, calluses do not lead to infections. However, if your callus displays any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to see a doctor for examination.
- Redness
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bleeding or discharge of pus
Advice
- Avoid using creams containing hydrocortisone. This type of cream is meant for treating rashes and is ineffective against calluses.
Warnings
- If you have diabetes or a history of poor blood circulation, consult a doctor before trying any home treatments.
