Tired of looking at the cracked and callused condition of your soles? Why not set aside a few minutes to scrape the dead skin away and prep your feet for flip-flop season? With the help of a foot file or callus remover, you can achieve salon-like results in the comfort of your home.
We've taken the time to pick out the best callus removes on the market, with Rikans Profoot's foot file taking the top spot for its extra efficient foot scraping capabilities. There are nine other options for you, plus a buying guide reviewed by a board certified dermatologist to help you choose the best callus removal process depending on your needs.
Quick List - Top Callus Removers for Feet
Tweezerman
Silver-Infused Exfoliation Stone With Anti-Bacterial Properties
Lee Beauty Professional
Effort-Free, Professional-Grade Callus Softener
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
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The concept of scraping the dead skin off your feet might seem like a scary endeavor, especially with a poorly designed foot file. The buying guide below should get you started on the right track in choosing the best callus remover for your feet.
There are two main types of callus removers for feet: foot files that are manual scrapers, and handheld devices that use the help of a motor for extra convenience. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages.
With a manual callus scraper, you might need more elbow grease, but you have complete control as to how intense the scrubbing is.
When you go for a manual scraper, you get a substantial surface area for scrubbing and callus removal. Whether it’s a pumice stone type or a grater design that files your foot into smoothness, a manual tool can tackle even the driest, stubborn, and seemingly impossible to remove callus.
Pumice stones and terracotta are traditional foot scraping tools known to be effective in removing calluses and corns. Poor-quality pumice stones can shed or deteriorate if not manufactured or treated properly. We recommend checking reviews to ensure you'll be removing dead skin and not the product.
Other manual foot files are made of metal and look like a kitchen grater. They can feature multiple holes for scraping or one blade like a razor to gently slice calluses. It might take some getting used to, but with the right pressure, you can remove even the most stubborn calluses with a foot file.
If you have very thick calluses, a razor may be your best bet, but these can cause trauma to the skin and could be tricky to use since they are so sharp. I do not suggest using a razor daily on the feet, but rather a few times a month.
Pumice-based manual scrapers are easy to use and can be used daily to help smoothen out the feet. Make sure to change your scrapers frequently as the moisture and dead skin left on the scraper can allow fungus and bacteria to grow.
Electric callus removers are handheld tools that have a head equipped with micro-abrasive materials that scrape dead skin as it spins. They often come with interchangeable attachments with different abrasive textures for filing, scraping, or achieving a more fine, sanded-down effect.
When choosing an electric scraper, you might be interested in multiple speed levels to achieve different results, such as a faster setting for tough spots and a slower speed for a smoothing effect.
We recommend double-checking with reviews as a common issue with electric scrapers is the motor slowing down when harder pressure is applied. It might take some practice to discover the right pressure to leave the scraping to the device.
The battery life of an electric scraper should also be considered. Some require battery replacement, while others are rechargeable.
If you have more calluses to tackle, ensure that a full battery is enough by confirming how long it lasts on a single charge. Better yet, you can choose a corded callus remover. You might need to be near an outlet, but this means constant, reliable power.
Choose an electrical scraper for very thick calluses, especially the ones that can be found on the first toe. Be careful not to overdo it since this may cause cuts in the skin and bleeding, which can make you prone to infection.
There are some genetic conditions of the skin that cause increased skin on the hands and the feet (called keratoderma) for which electrical scrapers work very well.
Callus scrapers, whether manual or electric, require a particular application method. Some can only be used on dry skin, while others require pre-soaked feet before you can scrub away. If you prefer not going through the process of soaking your feet to soften the skin, then go for a dry scraper.
Soaking your feet before using the callus remover can help make it easier, especially if you're working with extra thick calluses. To get the best of both worlds, you can opt for a callus remover that works on either pre-soaked or dry feet.
Generally, electrical removers should be used on dry skin while manual ones should be used on wet skin. I find soaking the foot for several minutes - at least 10 - can make a huge difference in how fast and how easy the callus is removed.
Callus removers come in all shapes and sizes. Some have a handle, while others are designed in one piece, like pumice stones where you can use any side to scrape. When going for a tool with a handle, check if it is ergonomically designed with grooves or rubber padding for a more secure grip.
A callus remover that is comfortable to hold allows you to really attack the skin and slough away dead cells, even on those hard-to-reach areas like in between the toes.
If you’re wary about the idea of grating your feet, or perhaps you don’t have bad calluses to begin with but want baby-soft soles, then maybe a cream or gel will do the trick.
You simply soak your feet in warm water to soften the skin, towel dry, then apply the cream or gel. Wait the recommended time and wipe the product off along with the callus.
Another type that doesn’t require scraping is callus pads infused with salicylic acid to tackle dry and cracked skin. However, this might not be the product for you if you have very sensitive skin, as the salicylic acid yields a burning sensation on the feet.
Look for products with urea, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid. These are all keratolytic and will break up thickened skin. Do not use salicylic acid or urea if pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure you leave the product on for several minutes before removing it. This will allow it to work better.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Rikans Profoot Colossal Foot Rasp | ![]() | A Very Reliable Callus Scraper | |
2 | Amope Pedi Perfect | ![]() | Easy-to-Use Electric Foot File | |
3 | Tweezerman Sole Smoother Anti-Bacterial Callus Stone | ![]() | Silver-Infused Exfoliation Stone With Anti-Bacterial Properties | |
4 | Lee Beauty Professional Callus Remover Extra Strength Gel|8 oz. | ![]() | Effort-Free, Professional-Grade Callus Softener | |
5 | Gilden Tree Terra Cotta Foot Scrubber | ![]() | A Natural Foot Scrubber That Will Last | |
6 | Samsali Corn Remover Pads|42 pack | ![]() | Foot Treatment for Corns and Calluses in Targeted Spots | |
7 | PurOrganica Urea 40% Cream With Pumice Stone and Brush|4 oz. | ![]() | Soften Calluses to Remove Them Easily | |
8 | Zizzon Foot Care Pedicure Callus Shaver | ![]() | A Versatile Foot File and Scraper | |
9 | Esarora Double-Sided Foot Scrubber |4 pack | ![]() | Two-Sided Foot Files for Minor Calluses | |
10 | Maryton Callus Remover and Scrubber|4 pack | ![]() | Get Scrubbing With a 2-in-1 Pad |
You might be wary about the design of this scraper because it looks very much like a cheese grater, but this has proven to be very effective against extra stubborn calluses. This foot file has the right blade sharpness and features a wide surface to tackle soles efficiently. When done, simply rinse for the next use.
A few reviewers noted that using it might be painful during initial use. They recommended not pushing too hard on the skin. Still, many others with extra hard calluses loved how well the foot file removed dead skin. They said this could achieve salon-like results. Users also liked that the file was easy to use and clean.
If you want to avoid the elbow grease of having to scrape your feet, perhaps an electronic foot file will do the trick. The spinning head of this device is equipped with extra-coarse diamond abrasive particles that gently yet effectively remove callused skin. You can replace the head or use a different style.
A few reviewers complained that the roller stopped working when too much pressure was applied. Some wished it was more powerful for stubborn calluses. Still, many others relied on this device to keep their feet looking and feeling smooth. Reviewers added that the foot file was easy to clean and use.
The stone in this foot file is infused with silver for anti-bacterial properties. It has a long handle for easy grip while you scrape away. The file has two sides: a coarse side to remove and exfoliate the outer dead skin and a finer side to smooth the area.
According to a few reviewers, the callus remover required more effort to achieve desired results. Some said a rougher surface would make this foot file more effective. On a positive note, they liked that it was safe, easy to use, and a hygienic option for foot pampering. They said that it left their feet nice and smooth for weeks.
This gel can soften and effectively remove calluses without the need for a foot file for minor cases, or with a scraper for tougher dead skin. In a matter of minutes, the potassium hydroxide in the formula works at softening calluses, forcing them to "melt" away. This product helps you achieve salon-like foot spas in the comfort of your home.
Users recommended not letting the gel stay on too long and wearing gloves, as it can lead to burning. Some also didn't see any improvements with their feet. Meanwhile, many others recommended this product because it softened and removed calluses quickly, leaving their skin clean and smooth.
This foot scrubber is made with clay, which won't crumble like pumice can. You get two scrubbing surfaces. One is rough for thick dry skin, and the other ribbed side gives a polishing effect. The one-piece design makes it easy to clean, while the curved handle provides a convenient grip.
A few reviewers complained that the scrubber didn't do anything for their feet. Meanwhile, many others shared that this was the only foot scrubber that worked in removing stubborn dead skin. They liked the weight and size of the tool and added that it was easy to clean.
For a more gentle yet effective approach in removing foot corns and small calluses, these pads will get the job done. They're infused with salicylic acid to soften and treat the issue. The pads are also comfortable to wear even with socks or shoes and do not bunch or slide off during the day.
A small number of users said it only worked on smaller targets or didn't stay on. However, many others said the pads were easy to apply and use. While other pads often caused pain, these were comfortable to wear, said reviewers.
If you can't run away from calluses no matter how many times you try scraping them off, this cream will ensure that your soles are properly moisturized to deter cracked skin in the first place. The cream can also be used to soften dead skin before removal with the included pumice stone and brush.
According to reviewers, the cream does not work to remove calluses quickly by itself. Many said they saw visible results in just a few days, and that over time it completely healed their feet. Those who suffered from cracked feet loved how soft and smooth their soles became.
You can scrape your feet to smoothness with this handheld shaver. It comes with two interchangeable heads: a blade to scrape off dead skin and a grater file to smooth the skin as a finishing touch. The wooden handle gives you a comfortable grip while you pamper and tend to your feet.
There were a few mixed reviews on the blade design, with some saying they cut themselves while others thought it didn't do anything, depending on callus thickness. Reviewers also advised drying the tool completely to avoid rust.
On a positive note, most reviewers had no issues using the foot file, adding it provides just the right pressure to remove surface-level dead skin.
Each file in this set has both a coarse and fine side for initial scraping and final touches. You can also use this on dry or wet feet, depending on your preference. They're suitable for calluses that are not thick enough to use a stronger scraper on comfortably.
According to a few reviewers, the sides were too similar, or they found it to be so flat that it filled up with skin debris quickly, compromising effectiveness.
Meanwhile, many others liked that the tool was easy to hold and light enough to get the right pressure and achieve desired results. They say it's good for calluses on more delicate skin.
This scrubber has two levels of coarseness, one rough for exfoliation and another finer side for the last touches in making your feet soft and smooth. You can use all the surfaces, meaning you get the most out of the product. Although it's called "pumice," reviewers say it's actually synthetic material.
A few reviewers were disappointed that the product shed easily, leaving a mess that's not skin debris. Still, many others were amazed at how the scrubber got their feet looking clear and smooth. They liked that it was easy to hold and use. Many said they achieved salon-level pampering.
I recommend the Eucerin Roughness Relief Spot Treatment all the time for the heels. This product has urea in it which is a great keratolytic, meaning it breaks up dead and thick skin. It works wonders for rough and thick skin.
In addition to reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Dr. Levy also took the time to answer some commonly asked questions about callus removers.
Dr. Levy explains, "Apply the gel to a clean and moist foot. Leave it on for at least thirty minutes. If your calluses are particularly thick, then wrap your heels in Saran wrap and put a cotton sock over them. You can leave it on longer.
Rinse off the gel and gently massage the dead skin away. Apply a hydrating emollient or cream with urea to the feet to continue to soften the area. Avoid using a gel with salicylic acid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding."
"Soak your foot for several minutes," Dr. Levy says. "Then use the callus remover to take off the dead thickened skin. It is easier and gentler to remove calluses that are soaked since they become soft. Never use too much force or pressure. The process should not be painful, so stop if there is any pain. Apply a hydrating moisturizer after using the remover."
The feet are often a forgotten body part, even though they are vital in everyday movement. Give your feet the attention they deserve with these suggestions.
No. 1: Rikans Profoot|Colossal Foot Rasp
No. 2: Amope|Pedi Perfect
No. 3: Tweezerman|Sole Smoother Anti-Bacterial Callus Stone
No. 4: Lee Beauty Professional|Callus Remover Extra Strength Gel|8 oz.
No. 5: Gilden Tree|Terra Cotta Foot Scrubber
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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