Difference between revisions of "Use Corn Caps"

Corns, also called helomas, are thickened skin that usually forms on the feet.  The thickening is a natural way for the skin to protect itself, usually in the form of a conical, waxy protrusion on the feet, and occurs because of excessive pressure.  Foot abnormalities, protuberant bones, ill-fitting footwear, and gait irregularities can lead to these oftentimes painful formations.<ref name="rf1"> http://www.medicinenet.com/corns/page3.htm</ref>  The good news is, proper use of corn caps (i.e. corn plasters) provide a simple, safe, and effective means of removing the growths.

#Remove the corn cap from the backing.  Just like a Band-aid, the adhesive section is pressed against a rubber backing that ensures nothing sticks to it before being applied.  Discard the backing once it has been fully separated from the adhesive portion.<ref name="rf2">http://www.drugs.com/uk/carnation-corn-caps-leaflet.html</ref>

</ref>  The circle is medicated, most likely with salicylic acid, and erodes the corn’s accumulation of skin. <ref name="rf3">http://www.rapidhomeremedies.com/how-to-get-rid-of-corns-on-toes.html</ref>  The gel of the corn cap needs to penetrate the skin directly on the corn, and if possible, the edges as well, as there may be portions of the corn that have grown laterally along the skin.

#*If using the corn cap on a toe, wrap the adhesive portion all the way around the toe. <ref name="rf2" />

#Reapply corn caps as necessary.  In general, the corn caps should be reapplied every two days.<ref name="rf2" />  It is possible, however, for some corn plasters to be reapplied daily until the corn is removed, or for a maximum of two weeks, whichever comes first.<ref name="rf4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_r5TiOJ0YY</ref>

#*Apply the corn cap precisely as the instructions direct.  Unnecessarily high absorption through the skin may occur if overused or improperly used.<ref name="rf5">http://www.dermnetnz.org/treatments/salicylic-acid.html</ref>

#Monitor for allergic reactions.  Allergic reactions may include, but are not limited to skin redness, itchiness, or a rash.  Soreness and discomfort, both mild and severe, are common.<ref name="rf2" />  If the irritation persists or becomes severe, you may be experiencing some form of salicylic acid toxicity.<ref name="rf6"> http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1009987-overview</ref>

#*Severe reactions are rare, but anaphylaxis has been reported with use of salicylic acid.<ref name="rf5" />

#Consult with a physician if corn caps are ineffective.  You should consult with a general physician, podiatrist, or dermatologist if your corn is painful, recurrent and not responding to corn paint. They might order an X-ray of your feet to rule out underlying bony abnormality and refer to an orthopedics if needed.<ref name="rf7">http://www.dermatocare.com/blog/Foot-corns--how-to-get-rid-of-corn-know-from-a-dermatologist</ref>

#Keep out of reach of children. <ref name="rf2" />  While the product is fairly benign when used properly, the salicylic can be dangerous in the hands of a child.  Application to facial skin could result in a chemical burn, and ingestion could cause nausea, vomiting, and even problems with the ear.<ref name="rf8"> http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsneng/neng0563.html</ref>

#Store at temperatures below 30˚C/86˚F.  Storage above these temperatures will likely cause the product to lose some effectiveness.  The adhesive on the ring will probably slip, and the salicylic acid will not be concentrated directly over the corn.<ref name="rf4" />

#*Also ensure the product is stored away from direct sunlight or severe humidity.<ref name="rf2" />

#Refrain from using the product after the expiration date.  Similar to heat-based degradation, age-based degradation will limit product efficacy.  Aside from the adhesive inadequacy, the foam ring often included for comfort may lose its soft, spongy texture that protects against rubbing and helps alleviate some of the pain associated with corns.<ref name="rf4" /><ref name="rf2" />