The Writer’s Bump: Why Does It Appear And How To Treat It?

The writer’s bump forms as a result of an accumulation of dead cells, due to constant friction against the finger. What to do to eliminate it? We will give you some methods.

The writer’s bump is also known as the “writing ball”. This is a callus that appears on one of the fingers of the hand,  due to the constant friction from using pencils, pens or other items for writing. Is it possible to eliminate it?

Even if it does not represent a problem for health, this callus is anti-aesthetic and causes irritation. Some people therefore seek treatment to reduce or eliminate it. Luckily, there are several options to make it go: we will explain them to you.

Why does the writer’s bump appear?

As an article published in American Family Physician explains , calluses are the result of a physiological response in the skin known as “hyperkeratosis”. This occurs because of continuous pressure or friction of the skin with a specific material.

The writer’s bump, in particular, appears as a result of the constant use of writing tools, such as pencils, pens and markers, among others. By exerting pressure against one of the fingers of the hand – which can be the middle or ring finger – these elements form a bump-shaped callus that is made up of dead cells.

Its main function is to protect the subjacent area of ​​the skin because, otherwise, it could become infected or contract infections. Even though it is harmless, it tends to be annoying and gives an unattractive appearance to the finger. This is why we often seek solutions to minimize it.

Recommended treatments for writer’s bump

There is no surgical treatment to completely remove calluses. However, as the American Academy of Dermatology explains , most of these calluses tend to go away when you stop the friction that causes them. In addition, certain treatment options can accelerate its decomposition.

In the case of the writer’s bump,  there are certain approaches that are generally effective. However, they do not give immediate results and you must act with patience so as not to cause more damage. So take note!

Exfoliation

The first recommendation to decrease the appearance of the writer’s bump is to soak it and then exfoliate it. According to information from the Mayo Clinic, this simple process softens the skin and removes accumulated dead cells.

• To do this, you  must first immerse the affected finger in lukewarm water for 10 minutes.
• Then, with a pumice stone or nail file, gently rub the callus. The idea is to remove dead cells.
• You should repeat this treatment every day until you notice improvement.

Note:  do not try to cut the callus with any tool as this could lead to infection.

Hydration

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends  applying moisturizers with salicylic acid, ammonium lactate, or urea. These ingredients help to soften the writer’s bump and, little by little, destroy the dead cells.

Other home products that are useful for moisturizing are:

• Aloe vera gel.
• Coconut oil.
• Shea Butter.
• Castor oil.
• Vitamin E.
• Olive oil.

Remedy with aspirin

The ideal is to use products with salicylic acid prescribed by the dermatologist. However, optionally or supplementally,  one can try a simple home remedy with aspirin.

According to a review in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology , salicylic acid acts as a keratolytic agent and relieves dermatological problems.

• For this remedy,  crush 3 to 5 aspirin tablets until they are powdered.
• Then moisten it with a little water until it forms a paste.
• Apply the preparation to the callus, rub gently and  wrap it for 10 or 15 minutes in a plastic bandage.
• Once this time has elapsed, remove the paste and rinse.
• Repeat the remedy every day,  until the callus is reduced.

Prevention of writer’s bump

Writing regularly makes it difficult to prevent writer’s bump. Either way, there are a few simple measures that can prevent this protrusion from appearing. We will detail the most important:

• Use finger guards when writing: Heavy bandages or cotton gloves can help protect the finger from friction against writing tools.
• Use Pen Grips:  Another way to put a barrier between the pens and the finger is the rubber or foam grip. It lands on the pen or pencil. Some even make it up already.
• Choose pens with gel ink:  this variety requires less pressure when applied to paper. As a result, the tension against the finger decreases.
• Release your pressure:  Obviously, try not to apply too much force while writing. Avoid pressing the pencil too hard against the paper. Also, rest your hand and wiggle it to relax it.

Is it necessary to consult a dermatologist?

Since this is a harmless lesion,  the writer’s bump usually heals over time, without the need for a dermatologist. However, it is advisable to go and consult him if the treatments mentioned do not work. The professional can indicate other treatment options, if necessary.

It is also important to seek specialist help if there are any signs of infection. This results in redness, pus, pain, inflammation, or bleeding. Keep this in mind!