How to Get Rid of Calluses on Fingers

Hard work brings great reward, but also has a downside. Raking leaves, playing the guitar, typing and other activities can result in calluses on the hands and fingers. While calluses signal that you've been working hard, they can cause discomfort and are not attractive. You can get rid of calluses on your fingers at home with a little patience. Don't suffer for your hard work -- get rid of those calluses and enjoy smooth hands again.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• Warm water
• Mild soap
• Pumice stone or exfoliating pad
• Gloves
• Lotion or aloe vera gel

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Instructions

• 1

  Gloves are not just for show -- wear them to prevent calluses.

  Wear gloves when working if possible to get rid of calluses on your fingers. Preventing calluses in the first place is much easier than getting rid of them after they occur. Besides calluses, gloves prevent many types of skin conditions. Gloves should be worn when you are doing repetitive tasks with tools if feasible. Another alternative is using callus pads when gloves are not practical. Callus pads can be purchased at any department or drug store.

• 2

  Soak your calluses. Get a bowl; fill it with warm water and a mild soap. You can add an antiseptic lotion to the water with the soap for additional softening. Alternatively, you can add baking soda, apple cider vinegar or sea salt to the water. Soak your hand for about 20 minutes or until the skin on your finger wrinkles. Replace the water if it cools during the 20 minutes. Dry the area around the calluses but not the callus itself.

• 3

  Use a pumice stone to get rid of calluses.

  Pumice the calluses on your fingers. You can find pumice stones at any department or drug store for a relatively inexpensive price. An exfoliating pad can also be used. Rub the stone or the pad gently on the callus. Use a circular motion. Don't over-pumice; just remove a layer or two to prevent infection and other complications.

• 4

  Lotions soften calluses on your fingers.

  Apply lotion to the calluses on your fingers. You can use your favorite lotion or a specialty cream. Aloe vera gel is one good alternative. Apply lotion to the calluses on your fingers often to help with the softening process.

• 5

  Change the way you work. Make sure you are not gripping your pens or other tools too tightly, as this can cause calluses on your fingers. Substitute a tool rather than using your bare fingers or hands if possible. Alternate repetitive task so that the area of your fingers that are prone to calluses are not exposed to constant friction.