Pumice Stone: HSA Eligibility

What is a pumice stone?

Corns are recurring skin conditions that develop on the hands and feet as a result of continuous friction and pressure in these areas. These skin imperfections are often painful and unattractive nuisances that are largely eliminated by lessening the abuse hands and feet take on a regular basis, which can limit the recurrence of corns. As opposed to calluses that are more flattened areas of thick skin in these areas, corns are usually round or conical, and they are also known to have a waxy, dry or translucent appearance (Mayo Clinic).

Treatments for corns vary depending on their severity and frequency, but most physicians will typically focus on the repetitive actions that a patient experiences that can contribute to their development. For instance, the vast majority of doctors will recommend cushioned insoles or inserts to relieve the pressure on the feet that can lead to corns, as well as in-office procedures such as the removal of excess skin. In more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of bones causing friction, which can lead to an increased frequency of corns.

Many patients rely on over-the-counter (OTC) corn remover to treat these skin conditions, which consist of small fabric adhesive patches that are treated with salicylic acid that will gradually remove corns and relieve pain. Before applying these patches, many dermatologists recommend the use of a pumice stone, nail file or emery board to smooth away dead skin before applying the patch to increase its efficacy. Other forms of corn removers include salicylic acid gels that can be worn for extended periods of time and applied on larger areas. In some cases, physicians may recommend antibiotic ointments as well to curb the chances of infection (WebMD).