10 Best Foot Files To Eliminate Stubborn Calluses
Bid farewell to rough and uneven dead skin and hello to velvety, baby soft feet.
Patricia Gaile EspinosaMD 
Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa has 9 years of experience. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society, and a member of the Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation Inc, Philippine Society of Venereologists, Inc, Ph... more
kirtana divakarMA (Journalism & Mass Communication) Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after read... more
medha debIntegrated MA Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
monomita chakrabortyMA (Journalism & Mass Communication) Experience: 4 yearsMonomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global Univers... more
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Our feet are overworked day in and day out! This is why our feet get calloused so easily. If you have been perusing the internet searching for the best foot file for rough skin or calluses, this post is for you!
We stand, sit, walk, run, work out, dance, jump, and so much more. But through all these activities, we are constantly on our feet. So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that our feet are covered in calluses, dry skin, and cracks. What was once baby soft feet skin has now become hard, rough, and patchy skin with accumulated dead skin.
We focus so much time on improving our facial skin and forget about the skin on our feet. Your feet’ skin also needs some TLC to stay soft and healthy. So let’s start with picking a foot, which is a great exfoliation tool, to remove those hard calluses and dried skin. Keep reading to take a peek at 10 truly effective foot files that will have your feet skin feeling smooth and soft! Say goodbye to patchy, dead skin on your feet with this effective pedicure accessory! Keep scrolling down, check out our list and pick your favorite!
In This Article
10 Best Foot Files For Clean And Smooth Heels
1. Best Lightweight Tool:Rikans Foot File
If you’ve tried every remedy for chronic heel cracks only to realize nothing works, this foot file will change your opinion. It easily gets through dry and dead callused skin with minimal pressure, and the results are quite evident right at the first use. Made from high-quality stainless steel, it is sharp enough to shave off stubborn layers of dried calluses without causing any damage to the skin. This professional-grade foot file for calluses is large yet light in weight, and this allows you to control the angle and pressure with ease. It works just as efficiently on both wet and dry feet, so you can work with it as per your preference. Use it once or twice a week to avoid skin irritation and over-exfoliation.
- Lightweight design
- Requires little pressure
- Surgical grade stainless steel surface
- Works both on dry and wet foot surface
- May not be suitable for mild calluses
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 87,912 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Medical & Esthetic Dermatology, says, “Care must be taken when using foot files. Too much friction on an area can cause more thickening of the skin, thus worsening the callus. Soak the area in warm water for about 10 minutes to help soften the skin, then file. If there is pain, stop filing in that area to avoid bleeding and infection.”
2. Best Grip:OwnHarmony Electric Callus Remover
If you’re looking for a change from the traditional foot filing procedure, you need this electronic pedicure foot file. This cordless electric foot file by OwnHarmony gives spa-like pedicure minus the hassle of walking up to a professional salon and making a splurge. You’ll forget the trouble of having callused feet when you use this foot file regularly— thanks to its 360° Smart Precision convex curved rollers. This professional-grade foot callus remover is designed such that it ensures you miss no spot, giving you baby soft skin. It features a no-slip grip to ease the application, and the improved safety lock button ensures safe filing. The rechargeable battery is an icing on the cake, and to give you that added safety, the foot file slows down or shuts off when you apply too much pressure. Click here to check out this YouTuber’s detailed review of this foot rasp.
- Cordless design
- Quick charging
- Comfort grip
- Skin-safe
- Water-resistant
- Child-proof
- The battery does not last long.
Stylecraze saysWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 33,308 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
3. Best Ergonomic Shape:Bare August Oh So Bare Foot File
The Bare August Oh So Bare Foot File is great for removing callus and dead dry skin from the feet. This foot scrubber is best used in the shower to scrape the heel and foot. The etched glass file is ideal for a pedicure and can be used as a buffer to achieve soft and smooth feet. It is non-abrasive and does not damage or hurt the skin. The scrubber gently exfoliates dry skin, dead skin build-up, and smoothens cracks. The design is ergonomic with a thumb indent for a perfect grip. The large surface of this foot smoothing tool offers edge-to-edge cleaning. It is easy to clean by a simple rinse under running water.
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic shape
- Edge-to-edge coverage
- User-friendly
- Travel-friendly
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Rikans Foot File Best Lightweight Tool | OwnHarmony Electric Callus Remover Best Grip | Bare August Oh So Bare Foot File Best Ergonomic Shape | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 0.2 Pounds | 150 Grams | 3.49 Ounces |
| Color | Silver, Black | Blue | Pink |
| Material | Metal,Steel | Rollers made of micro-mineral crystals, Plastic | Glass |
| Dimensions | 10.78 x 2.7 x 0.29 inches | 2.28 x 1.3 x 6.1 inches | 4.15 x 3 x 1.8 inches |
| Weight | 3.2 Ounces | - | 3.49 Ounces. |
| Batteries | - | 1 AA batteries required | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 87,912 | 33,308 | - |
| Price | $9.95 | $29.99 | $14.99 |
4. Best Exfoliating Product:Probelle Double-Sided Foot File
If you intend to reach between your toes and exfoliate every dry patch on your feet, you need a sleek, multidirectional foot file callus or rough skin remover like this one. Foot filing would be no fun if the foot file ends up irritating your skin. However, this foot scrubber features a non-cutting finish that ensures the process is painless and non-irritating. You can reach all those hard-to-reach spots on your feet to clean away dead cells and reveal super soft skin. This foot exfoliator is double-sided, with a medium and a coarse side. You can target thick callus with the coarse side and then finish up with the medium side. So, pick this pedicure tool and make your feet happy!
- Long lasting nickel metal surface
- Smooth handle
- Double-sided
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-cutting finishing
- May not be suitable for everyday use
5. Best Deep Cleansing Option:Urban Spa Wooden Foot File
When rough patches and sores become a problem you’re trying to address, you need one of the best foot files that you can use every day, and this foot file from Urban Spa keeps you covered. Made out of wood and natural pumice stone, this foot care implement can conveniently complete your foot care collection. The pumice stone helps gently buff away dead skin cells and calluses on the feet, elbow, and even hands. It is recommended that you soak the pumice stone and your skin before using for optimal results and added moisturization after exfoliating. Since the pumice stone is unbleached and gentle to use, you can exfoliate using this foot file on a daily basis.
- Unbleached pumice stone
- Easy-to-grip wooden handle
- Allows wet and dry filing
- Offers deep cleaning
- May not be suitable for removing thick calluses
6. Best Gentle Action: Tweezerman Sole Smoother Callus Stone
The Tweezerman Sole Smoother Callus Stone is a high-quality tool that effectively removes calluses and rough skin from your feet, giving visible results. The callus stone is made from high-quality ceramic that is durable and long-lasting, ensuring that it can withstand repeated use. It is also easy to clean, simply rinse with soap and water and let it air dry.
The unique shape of the callus stone makes it easy to grip, providing you with full control over the pressure and angle of the stone. This foot care instrument is also easy to use, making it the perfect tool for on-the-go foot care. Here’s a personal reviewer’s experience video to help you get a better understanding of the product.
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Easy to hold
- Easy to use
- Long-lasting
- Ergonomic handle
- Some may find it rough
7. Best Smooth Finish: Amope Pedi Perfect Advanced Electronic Dry Foot File
The Amope Pedi Perfect Advanced Electronic Dry Foot File helps you achieve smooth and soft feet with ease. This advanced feet care tool has a unique roller head made with diamond crystals, which gently buffs away hard skin and calluses, leaving your feet looking and feeling soft and smooth.
The foot file has an ergonomic design that fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy for this dry skin remover to reach all areas of your feet. It is a battery-operated electric hard skin remover with 4 AA batteries included in the package. This foot file is suitable for all skin types and is gentle enough to use daily. With this foot care accessory, you can achieve salon-worthy results in the comfort of your own home.
- Splash-proof
- Dual speed
- Easy to hold
- Easy to use
- Smooth finish
None
8. Best For Rough Skin:Layuki Premium Body Brush & Foot Brush Set
This set of body brush and foot brush from Layuki is all you need to ensure soft and supple skin. Both the body brush and foot brush feature natural boar bristles. While one side of the foot scraper for dead skin comes with a pumice stone for foot filing, the other side has bristles for deep cleaning your feet. The pumice stone has multiple small holes that make it easier to get rid of corns and rough skin. The body brush and the foot brush are palm-sized, thus making it easy for you to carry them along when you’re traveling.
- 2-sided
- Suitable sized
- Natural boar bristles
- Features an anti-slip cotton strap
- May not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin
Quick TipDr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Medical & Esthetic Dermatology, says, “Soak the pumice stone in warm water before using. Also, soak the area of concern to soften the skin. Then, rub the thickened area with the pumice stone. Use circular or sideways motion to remove the excess skin.”
9. Best Long-Lasting Results:The Body Shop Wooden Foot File
This ergonomically designed The Body Shop Foot File makes sloughing off dead skin cells quite effortless. Made from certified beech wood, this professional foot file is durable and hard-wearing. It has a compact and lightweight construction that allows you to reach between your toes to scrub away scaly skin. This double-sided long-handled foot file features a coarse and a smooth side for both gentle cleaning and intensive exfoliation. Invest in this quality foot file and say yes to clean, beautiful, and silky soft skin from heels to toe.
- Durable
- Double-sided
- Lightweight
- Gentle on the skin
- For dry use only
10. Best For All Skin Types: Michael Todd Beauty Pedimax
The Michael Todd Beauty Pedimax is one of the best foot files that helps you achieve smooth and soft feet with ease. This advanced foot file has a unique motorized roller head that utilizes 360° rotating discs to gently buff away hard skin and calluses, leaving your feet looking and feeling more attractive.
Pedimax is suitable for all ages as it is painless and easy to use. The cordless, battery-free, and USB rechargeable Pedimax tool is the most practical, straightforward, and efficient equipment for a perfect pedicure at the comfort of your own home.
- Easy to use
- 3 interchangeable treatment heads
- Comfortable
- LED indicator
- Dermatologist-approved
None
While this list of the 10 best foot files gives you enough options, our buying guide can help you make the most accurate decision and meet your specific requirements. So, give it a read and invest in the right foot file.
How To Choose The Best Foot File For Your Feet
- Coarseness
Foot files come with varying coarseness— gentle, medium, and highly coarse. The level of coarseness that you opt for depends on how thick and stubborn your calluses are. For filing away thick layers of dead skin, you would need a foot callus eliminator that has moderate/medium to high coarseness. This ensures that your calluses are eliminated without much effort. However, if you’re using a foot file to just scrub off that thin layer of dead skin cells, you should purchase a foot file with a gentle surface as a highly coarse filing surface may end up irritating your skin or causing redness and rashes.
- Dry vs. wet filing
Whether you use your foot file on dry or wet feet is a personal preference. However, what you must pay attention to is the fact that not all foot files can be used on wet feet. While almost every foot file is meant to do the job of exfoliating dry feet, certain foot files such as electronic ones and those made out of wood can only be used on dry feet. Therefore, keep in mind how you intend to use your foot file and ensure that you invest in one that meets your filing approach.
- Lightweight
Lightweight foot files are best to opt for as they allow you to easily maneuver and control the pressure without feeling too heavy on the hand. Therefore, it is recommended that you look for foot files that are made from lightweight material and come with an easy-to-grip handle so that the foot file does not keep slipping off.
- Electronic vs. manual
While traditional or manual foot files are really common, electronic foot files are increasing in popularity as well. However, both the types of foot files have their own advantages and disadvantages. While manual foot files don’t need to be charged or a separate investment in batteries, they’re also quite affordable. The only disadvantage is that it is a relatively time-taking process to file with a manual foot file as compared to an electronic foot file. While an electronic foot file eases the operation, the disadvantage is that it can be an expensive alternative, requires to be charged before using, and may only allow dry operation.
If you want squeaky clean heels that are velvety soft to look at and touch, you need to make sure that you’re using this foot grooming tool called foot file the right way. And we’re here to help you learn the ropes.
How To Use A Foot File
- If you’re using a foot file for wet filing, start by soaking your feet in warm water for about 5 minutes. This helps soften the calluses for easy removal upon minimal pressure while filing. However, if you’re using a dry foot file, skip this step.
- Start at your heels with gentle scrapes and a little pressure and see how it works. Depending on whether or not the pressure you use is enough to scrub away calluses, you can increase or decrease the pressure. Now, move to different parts of your foot and scrub between the toes.
- After filing, clean your feet with soap and water.
- Use a moisturizer to keep your feet soft and hydrated to prevent the formation of calluses.
If you wonder what exactly are the uses of a foot file or a dead skin remover for feet, let us explain to you. Read on to find out!
What Are The Uses Of A Foot File?
- Foot files are a handy tool meant for getting rid of stubborn calluses that form over months.
- When you use a foot file on a regular basis, they can prevent the formation of calluses and give you soft and smooth feet.
- They can also be used every day for removing dead skin cells and dirt accumulation from the feet.
Infographic: Foot Files: Facts And Buying Guide
Foot files are an essential part of your pedicure. This smooth feet tool helps you achieve smooth and even feet. But, you must consider certain aspects to make a wise purchase. Scroll and check out the following infographic to learn what you must look for while investing in a foot file and some not-so-common facts about this pedicure essential. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Foot files eliminate calluses, dry skin, and cracks. If you are suffering from patchy and dead skin on your feet, you can easily purchase foot files to remove them effectively. The tested design of these foot files ensures that no spot is missed and that stubborn dead skin can be removed from your feet with ease. Some foot files also include a no-slip grip that doesn’t let the foot files slip away while you are busy getting rid of calluses. These foot files are made with products that can eliminate the thickest of calluses and do not cause any added skin irritation. The Rikans Foot File offers a lightweight design for easy handling and use, while the OwnHarmony Electric Callus Remover features an excellent grip, making it easy to maneuver and control during use. Or you can use the Probelle Double-Sided Foot File to get a painless and non-irritating exfoliation. However, you should purchase foot files that come with non-cutting finishes so that your feet remain safe even when you are trying to eliminate very stubborn calluses.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is a skin care aficionado and loves to try out different products and evaluate their effectiveness for her readers. For this article, she has carefully researched different foot files to zero in on the best tools that effectively eliminate stubborn calluses. Besides, she has gone through hundreds of reviews posted online to shortlist the foot files listed above. These products are easy to use and help you bid farewell to patchy, dead skin on your feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it bad to use a foot file?
Foot filing is an essential foot care step that ensures your feet are free of dead skin and calluses. While you can use a foot file or pumice stone on a daily basis if it is gentle on the skin, it is recommended that you use it only once or twice a week if you use a heavy-duty foot file that is quite coarse.
Do I use a foot file on wet or dry feet?
Different brands create different types of foot files. To know if or not you can use a foot file on wet/dry or wet and dry feet, you will have to check the label or manual of the product. While most sandpaper and stainless-steel foot files for feet can be used both on wet and dry feet, electronic foot files are meant for dry filing.
Can diabetics use a foot file?
Those who have diabetes should refrain from using a callus scraper as cuts and damage of the skin takes significantly longer for diabetics to heal, which can end up causing infection.
How often should you file your feet?
Filing your feet once a week or every 10 days keeps them soft, flake-free, and healthy. Also, use some foot treatment product to prevent dryness.
Do glass foot files work?
Yes, glass foot files work best for sensitive skin as they are gentle yet effective.
How do you clean a foot file?
Use a fine brush to remove dead skin and nail dust from the grooves. Clean with soap and lukewarm water, and then air dry.
Can I use a nail file as a foot file?
Yes, you can use a nail file as a foot file, but it is best to keep the two separate for hygiene purposes.
