Why Is Skin Hard?
Skin can become hard due to several factors, not inherent to its basic structure. The hardness is usually a response to external pressures or underlying conditions.
Several factors contribute to skin becoming hard and thickened:
-
Friction and Pressure: Repeated rubbing or pressure on skin causes the body to produce excess skin cells. This leads to a buildup of cells, resulting in thick, hard skin. This is commonly seen in areas like the heels and hands. “When these areas are exposed to repeated friction or pressure, the body responds by producing excess skin cells and over time, this causes the skin to become thick and hard.”
-
Corns and Calluses: These are common examples of hard skin buildup. Corns are smaller, deeper, and often painful, while calluses are broader and less painful. Both develop due to friction and pressure. "Corns and calluses are a buildup of hard, thick areas of skin. You'll usually see them on your feet, hands or fingers."
-
Scleroderma: This is a rare autoimmune disease. It causes the skin to become thickened and hardened, affecting blood vessels and internal organs. "Scleroderma causes areas of tight, hard skin, but can also harm your blood vessels and organs." It’s important to note this is a medical condition requiring professional diagnosis and treatment. "Scleroderma is a rare and chronic condition that can affect many parts of your body including the skin, joints, blood vessels and internal organs."
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment depends on the cause of the hard skin. For calluses and corns, home remedies like moisturizing, filing, and soaking can help. For scleroderma, medical intervention is necessary. "The answer is to moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Choose a cream or balm with active ingredients such as urea, which works to draw moisture into the…." "Home remedies may help to manage and prevent hard skin. These can include warm soaks, filing skin, and moisturizing the area." Preventing hard skin involves minimizing friction and pressure through appropriate footwear, padding, and consistent moisturizing.
