Troublesome callus

[oxygenman]

Over the last few months, the callus on my left forefinger has developed a jagged tip, and it's getting caught on frets every time I slide up the neck. Has anybody ever had this problem before? I'd love to know if there's a good solution. Thanks in advance.

[Kip Carter]

Emery boards are your friend... I sand mine down every few days... keeps them smooth and healthy.

[oxygenman]

Thank you, Kip. I’m glad I asked.

[StevenL]

I use a little metal nail file fine on one side, medium on the other. Use the medium for the rough areas then polish off with the fine.

[Athens]

Originally Posted by Kip Carter

Emery boards are your friend... I sand mine down every few days... keeps them smooth and healthy.

+1 on this. Every few days. It's normal.

[Riverwolf]

100 grit sandpaper.

[mickthemiller]

I let mine grow just enough to cut off. I then sell the pieces to an oriental medicine shop. I tell them it'd rhino horn.

[amyFB]

i like shea butter or coconut oil for softening up rough spots.

and an emery board to smooth stuff that won't soften.

[Moocheng]

A quick tidy up with a emery board keeps 'em in good order. As a fingerpicker who plays on flesh rather than nails, I also tidy up my picking hand often taking much more care over this than my fretting hand.

[DenverSteve]

Bite it off and keep playing.

[JimmerO]

I keep an emory board or foam nail board in my pocket all the time now. If I get a jagged edge on one of my calluses I round it off. I almost never have any of mine peel off anymore.

[oxygenman]

Thanks for the good advice, folks.