Skip to product information
1 of 2

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Carnation Corn Caps

Carnation Corn Caps

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Targets hard corns with salicylic acid 40% keratolytic action
  • ✔️ Softens and loosens thickened corn tissue within 48 hours
  • ✔️ Adhesive ring protects healthy surrounding skin during treatment
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults with hard corns on feet aged 16 and over
  • ✔️ Compact medicated plaster format — easy, mess-free home application

Price Checker

Regular price £3.09
Sale price £3.09
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription

Purchase Options

View full details

 

What Are Corn Caps and How Do They Treat Foot Corns?

 

Foot corns are small, hardened areas of thickened skin that develop in response to repeated friction or pressure — usually on the tops, sides, or soles of the feet. They can be surprisingly painful, especially when you're walking or standing for long periods. Corn caps are medicated plasters designed to sit directly over the corn and deliver a targeted dose of salicylic acid to the affected area, gradually softening and loosening the hardened tissue so it can be removed. If you've been putting up with the discomfort of a corn for longer than you'd like, this is a straightforward, affordable option worth knowing about. You can explore a wider range of products in our foot care collection if you're looking for complementary treatments too.

Carnation Corn Caps are one of the most recognised corn treatments available over the counter in the UK. Each pack contains medicated discs and adhesive rings, making application simple and mess-free. At just £3.09, they offer a cost-effective way to manage a common and often frustrating foot problem from the comfort of your own home.

 

How Do Carnation Corn Caps Work on Hard Skin?

 

The active ingredient in Carnation Corn Caps is salicylic acid at a concentration of 40%. Salicylic acid is a well-established keratolytic agent — meaning it works by breaking down keratin, the protein that makes up the tough outer layers of skin. When applied directly to a corn, it softens the hardened tissue and loosens the bonds between skin cells, making it easier to gently rub away the dead skin after treatment.

  • Salicylic acid penetrates the thickened skin of the corn
  • It disrupts the keratin structure, softening the hard tissue
  • The surrounding adhesive ring protects healthy skin from exposure
  • After removal, softened skin can be gently filed or rubbed away

It's worth noting that the medicated disc is designed to sit precisely over the corn, and the adhesive ring helps keep it in place while also protecting the surrounding healthy skin from unnecessary exposure to the acid. This targeted approach is what makes corn caps more practical than some other topical treatments.

 

Who Should Use Carnation Corn Caps?

 

Carnation Corn Caps are suitable for most adults who have a hard corn on their foot and are otherwise in good health. They're particularly useful if you've tried simple padding or cushioning without success and want a medicated option that actively removes the corn rather than just relieving pressure around it.

  • Adults aged 16 and over with a confirmed hard corn
  • People who spend long hours on their feet and need quick relief
  • Those who prefer a self-care approach before seeking podiatry
  • Individuals with no underlying circulatory or nerve conditions

However, this product is not suitable for everyone. People with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or peripheral neuropathy should not use salicylic acid corn treatments without professional guidance. The same applies if the skin around the corn is broken, infected, or inflamed. Always read the label carefully before use.

 

How Do Carnation Corn Caps Compare to Other Corn Treatments?

 

Feature Carnation Corn Caps Corn Files / Pumice Stones
Active ingredient Salicylic acid 40% None (mechanical only)
How it works Chemically softens corn tissue Physically abrades hard skin
Suitable for diabetics No — seek medical advice With caution — seek advice
Ease of use Simple plaster application Requires manual effort

 

Are Carnation Corn Caps Safe to Store at Home?

 

Yes — corn caps are straightforward to store safely at home. Keep them in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing other skin concerns, our skin care collection includes a range of products that may complement your foot care routine.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Carnation Corn Caps specifications
Treatment category Foot care / Corn removal
Active ingredient Salicylic acid 40%
Mechanism of action Keratolytic — softens and breaks down hardened skin
Suitable for Adults aged 16 and over with hard corns
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Preparation Medicated plaster / disc
Route of administration Topical
Drug class Keratolytic agent

Specifications of Carnation Corn Caps

 

What Are Carnation Corn Caps and What Are They Used For?

 

Carnation Corn Caps are medicated plasters used to treat hard corns on the feet. Each cap contains a disc impregnated with salicylic acid 40%, a keratolytic medicine that softens the thickened skin of a corn so it can be gently removed. Corns are a very common foot problem — they form when repeated pressure or friction causes the skin to thicken as a protective response. According to the NHS, corns are particularly common on the tops and sides of toes and on the sole of the foot.

This product is intended for the self-treatment of hard corns in adults and is not a treatment for soft corns (which occur between the toes), verrucas, or other skin conditions. If you're unsure whether you have a corn or something else, a pharmacist can help you identify it before you begin treatment.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Carnation Corn Caps?

 

Before applying Carnation Corn Caps, it's important to check that this product is right for you. Do not use these caps if any of the following apply:

  • You have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or poor circulation
  • You have peripheral neuropathy or reduced sensation in your feet
  • The skin around the corn is broken, cracked, infected, or inflamed
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek pharmacist advice first)
  • You are under 16 years of age
  • You have a known allergy to salicylic acid or any plaster adhesive
  • The area to be treated is a soft corn between the toes

There are no significant known drug interactions with topically applied salicylic acid at this concentration when used as directed. However, if you are using other topical medicines on your feet, speak to your pharmacist before combining treatments. You may also find it helpful to browse our pain relief collection if you need additional support managing foot discomfort while your corn heals.

 

How Should You Use Carnation Corn Caps?

 

Using Carnation Corn Caps correctly is key to getting the best result. Follow these steps carefully each time you apply a cap:

  1. Wash and dry your feet thoroughly before application.
  2. Soak the affected foot in warm water for 5 minutes to soften the skin slightly.
  3. Dry the area completely — the plaster will not adhere well to damp skin.
  4. Peel the medicated disc from its backing and place it directly over the centre of the corn.
  5. Secure the disc in place using the adhesive ring provided, ensuring healthy surrounding skin is covered and protected.
  6. Leave the cap in place for up to 48 hours.
  7. Remove the cap and gently rub away the softened white skin using a foot file or pumice stone.
  8. Repeat the process if the corn has not fully resolved, allowing the skin to rest between applications.
Indication Age Group Application Frequency
Hard corn on foot Adults 16+ 1 medicated disc per corn Every 48 hours as needed
Hard corn on foot Under 16 Not recommended without medical advice

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Carnation Corn Caps?

 

Like all medicines, Carnation Corn Caps can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Salicylic acid is generally well tolerated when used as directed on intact skin.

Common side effects:

  • Mild stinging or burning sensation at the site of application
  • Redness of the skin directly under the medicated disc
  • Temporary whitening of the treated skin (this is expected and normal)

Less common side effects:

  • Irritation or redness of the surrounding healthy skin if the disc is not positioned accurately
  • Skin peeling beyond the treated area
  • Allergic contact dermatitis (rare) — signs include significant redness, swelling, or blistering

If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction — such as widespread redness, swelling, or difficulty breathing — remove the plaster immediately and seek urgent medical attention. Stop use and consult a pharmacist or GP if irritation is severe or persistent.

 

How Should You Store Carnation Corn Caps?

 

Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness of the medicated discs. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat
  • Store out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
  • Do not store in a bathroom cabinet where humidity may affect the adhesive

If you have unused caps after your corn has resolved, keep them sealed in their original packaging for future use. For other foot-related concerns such as fungal infections, our athlete's foot and fungal infections collection has a range of suitable treatments to explore.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Carnation Corn Caps online in the UK?

You can buy Carnation Corn Caps directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £3.09. They are dispatched quickly and discreetly to your door. You can also browse our full foot care collection for related products.

How do Carnation Corn Caps work in the body?

Carnation Corn Caps contain salicylic acid 40%, which acts as a keratolytic agent — it breaks down the keratin protein that makes up the hardened skin of a corn. This softens the thickened tissue so it can be gently rubbed away after treatment. The adhesive ring protects the healthy skin surrounding the corn from exposure to the acid.

How do I use Carnation Corn Caps step by step?

Soak your foot in warm water for five minutes, then dry it thoroughly. Peel the medicated disc and place it directly over the corn, then secure it with the adhesive ring. Leave in place for up to 48 hours, then remove and gently rub away the softened skin with a pumice stone or foot file.

How long does it take for corn caps to work?

Most people see noticeable softening of the corn within the first one or two applications. Complete removal of a hard corn typically takes between five and seven days of consistent treatment, though deeper or older corns may require a few additional applications. If there is no improvement after two weeks, consult a pharmacist or podiatrist.

Are Carnation Corn Caps safe for people with diabetes?

No — people with diabetes should not use salicylic acid corn treatments without first consulting their GP or podiatrist. The NHS advises that people with diabetes take extra care with their feet and seek professional treatment for corns and calluses, as reduced circulation and sensation can increase the risk of complications. A podiatrist can remove corns safely without medication.

Can children use Carnation Corn Caps?

Carnation Corn Caps are not recommended for children under 16 without medical advice. If your child has a corn, speak to a pharmacist or GP before using any medicated treatment. In many cases, a podiatrist can offer a safer alternative for younger patients.

What are the side effects of Carnation Corn Caps?

Side effects are generally mild and may include a slight stinging or burning sensation at the application site, redness, and temporary whitening of the treated skin — this whitening is expected and normal. Less commonly, irritation of the surrounding skin may occur if the disc is not positioned accurately over the corn. Stop use and speak to a pharmacist if irritation is severe or persistent.

What is the best time to apply Carnation Corn Caps?

There is no specific time of day required, but many people find it convenient to apply the cap in the evening after bathing, so it can work overnight without being disturbed by footwear or activity. Ensuring the foot is completely dry before application will help the adhesive ring stay in place throughout the treatment period.

How long can I keep using Carnation Corn Caps?

You should use Carnation Corn Caps only for as long as needed to remove the corn. If the corn has not resolved after two weeks of treatment, stop use and seek advice from a pharmacist, GP, or podiatrist. Prolonged or excessive use of salicylic acid on the same area of skin is not recommended.

Can I use Carnation Corn Caps on soft corns between my toes?

No — Carnation Corn Caps are designed for hard corns only and should not be used on soft corns, which develop between the toes in areas of moisture. Soft corns require different management, and you should speak to a pharmacist or podiatrist for appropriate advice. Using salicylic acid between the toes can cause significant irritation to the surrounding skin.

What happens if I accidentally apply the cap to healthy skin?

If the medicated disc makes prolonged contact with healthy skin, it may cause redness, irritation, or peeling in that area. Remove the cap immediately if you notice discomfort on healthy skin, and rinse the area with water. The adhesive ring is designed to protect surrounding skin, so accurate placement is important.

What are the alternatives to Carnation Corn Caps?

Alternatives include other salicylic acid-based corn plasters, corn files, pumice stones, or professional podiatry treatment. A podiatrist can safely pare away a corn without any medication, which is often the preferred option for people with diabetes or circulatory conditions. You can also explore our skin care collection for additional products that support skin health.

Can I wear shoes while using Carnation Corn Caps?

Yes, you can wear shoes while the cap is in place, though well-fitting, comfortable footwear is recommended to avoid dislodging the plaster. Tight or ill-fitting shoes are often a contributing cause of corns in the first place, so addressing footwear choice alongside treatment can help prevent recurrence. Avoid high heels or narrow-toed shoes during treatment if possible.

Are there any medicines that interact with Carnation Corn Caps?

There are no significant known drug interactions with topically applied salicylic acid at this concentration when used as directed on a small area of skin. However, if you are using other topical medicines on your feet, it is always sensible to check with your pharmacist before combining treatments. Systemic absorption from a single corn cap is considered negligible in healthy adults.

What is the latest guidance on treating foot corns at home?

The NHS recommends that most hard corns can be managed at home using salicylic acid treatments, combined with regular use of a pumice stone and wearing well-fitting footwear to reduce pressure. Addressing the underlying cause — such as poorly fitting shoes or foot deformities — is considered just as important as treating the corn itself. People with diabetes or circulatory problems should always seek professional podiatry care rather than self-treating.

How Should You Use Carnation Corn Caps?

Using Carnation Corn Caps correctly makes a real difference to how quickly and effectively the corn resolves. Before you begin, make sure the skin around the corn is intact — not broken, infected, or inflamed. Follow these steps each time you apply a cap:

Never apply the medicated disc to healthy skin, and always ensure the disc is centred precisely over the corn before securing the adhesive ring. If the cap falls off before 48 hours, simply reapply a fresh one.

What Is the Correct Dose of Carnation Corn Caps?

The dose is one medicated disc applied directly to each corn, left in place for up to 48 hours per application. Do not apply more than one disc to the same corn at a time, and do not use on more than one or two corns simultaneously without pharmacist advice.

When Is the Best Time to Use Carnation Corn Caps?

There is no strict requirement about the time of day, but many people find evening application most practical. Applying the cap after bathing — when the foot is clean and dry — and leaving it on overnight means it can work undisturbed while you sleep. This also reduces the chance of the plaster being dislodged by footwear during the day.

If you prefer daytime application, wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that do not put pressure directly on the treated area. Avoid tight or narrow footwear during treatment, as this can both dislodge the cap and worsen the underlying cause of the corn.

How Long Can You Use Carnation Corn Caps For?

Most hard corns respond within five to seven days of consistent treatment. You should only continue using the caps for as long as necessary to remove the corn. If the corn has not resolved after two weeks of treatment, stop use and consult a pharmacist, GP, or podiatrist for further assessment.

Prolonged use of salicylic acid on the same area of skin is not recommended, as it may cause irritation or damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. Once the corn has gone, addressing the cause — such as ill-fitting footwear or a foot deformity — will help prevent it from returning.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Carnation Corn Caps?

Carnation Corn Caps are generally well tolerated when used as directed. The most frequently reported effects are local reactions at the site of application, which are usually mild and temporary.

  • Mild stinging or burning sensation under the medicated disc
  • Redness of the skin directly beneath the cap
  • Temporary whitening of the treated skin — this is expected and indicates the salicylic acid is working
  • Slight tenderness when the cap is removed

These effects typically resolve quickly once the cap is removed and the skin is allowed to rest between applications. If stinging is particularly uncomfortable, check that the disc is positioned accurately over the corn and not overlapping healthy skin.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Carnation Corn Caps?

Less commonly, some people experience reactions that extend slightly beyond the treated area, particularly if the medicated disc is not positioned precisely over the corn.

  • Irritation or redness of the surrounding healthy skin
  • Peeling or flaking of skin beyond the corn itself
  • Mild maceration (softening and breakdown) of healthy skin if the cap is left on too long

These effects are usually avoidable with careful application. Always ensure the adhesive ring fully covers and protects the healthy skin around the corn before leaving the cap in place.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Carnation Corn Caps?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. Allergic contact dermatitis — an immune reaction to salicylic acid or the plaster adhesive — is uncommon but possible. Signs to watch for include:

  • Significant swelling, blistering, or weeping of the skin
  • Widespread redness extending well beyond the application site
  • Intense itching or burning that does not settle after removing the cap
  • Signs of skin infection such as warmth, pus, or increasing pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, remove the cap immediately, rinse the area with cool water, and seek medical advice promptly. In the unlikely event of a severe allergic reaction — including facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash — call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild local reactions such as redness or stinging, simply remove the cap and allow the skin to rest for 24 hours before reapplying. If irritation is moderate or does not settle, stop treatment and speak to a pharmacist before continuing. Do not apply the cap to broken, inflamed, or infected skin under any circumstances.

If you are concerned that the corn is becoming infected — for example, if you notice increasing pain, warmth, swelling, or discharge — stop using the product and consult your GP. People with diabetes should seek professional foot care at the first sign of any skin change.

Can Carnation Corn Caps Interact With Other Medicines?

There are no significant known interactions between topically applied salicylic acid at this concentration and other medicines when used on a small area of skin as directed. Systemic absorption from a single corn cap is considered negligible in healthy adults. However, if you are using other topical treatments on your feet — such as antifungal creams or emollients — check with your pharmacist before combining them with Carnation Corn Caps to avoid any potential for skin irritation.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery