Corn vs Plantar Wart
Corn forms when the skin is repeatedly pressed and thickened on the sole of the foot, often from ill fitting footwear. These patches typically develop on high friction areas, such as the ball of the foot or the sides of the toes, making walking uncomfortable. Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus, show a rough surface and sometimes tiny dark specks resembling seeds.
A dermatologist can usually differentiate by texture, color, tenderness, and the presence or absence of surrounding callus. Corns tend to be well defined with a hard core under the surface, especially when pressure is steady. Warts may feel spongier and have irregular borders, and they may show tiny capillary dots visible under dermoscopy.
In dermatology recommendations in Korea, accurate diagnosis comes before treatment, which helps prevent unnecessary procedures. Clinicians may use visual inspection, dermoscopy, or a simple bedside palpation to distinguish a corn from a plantar wart. The goal is to tailor therapy to the cause, whether reducing pressure or removing a viral lesion, to prevent recurrence.
Korean Treatment Trends
Foot care in Korean dermatology often combines conservative measures with modern procedures. Cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen remains a common option for well defined corn and is increasingly guided by clinic protocols. Laser therapies, such as CO2 lasers, are used for stubborn lesions or recurrent cases after debridement.
Clinics report cases linked to footwear, gait patterns, and body weight that influence lesion formation. Orthotics and proper shoes are routinely recommended to reduce pressure and prevent recurrence. Some patients require staged removal when the lesion keeps returning due to persistent biomechanical issues.
Emerging trends include digital follow ups and patient education to track healing. Dermatologists emphasize gradual pressure relief, foot hygiene, and clear instructions for home care. Across Korea, dermatology recommendations focus on accurate diagnosis, appropriate intervention, and long term prevention.
Home Care and Prevention
At home, gentle soaking and controlled keratolytic use can support recovery. Regular filing after softening the skin with warm water helps reduce thickness without injuring healthy tissue. Choose well fitting shoes with wide toe boxes to minimize new pressure points.
Moisturizers and barrier creams help maintain elasticity and resist cracking. Avoid self treatment with sharp tools or picking at the lesion, which can lead to infection. Consult a dermatologist if the lesion does not improve after several weeks or becomes painful.
Regular clinical checkups are part of prevention, especially for people with diabetes or neuropathy. A dermatologist can guide safe keratolytic use and determine when a procedure is needed. Understanding how gait and footwear influence pressure supports long term foot health.