Frequently Asked Questions about QuikCallus

Wait a minute: what is a callus?
A callus is a thickened, hardened area of skin that forms as a result of repeated contact or pressure. Calluses are often formed on the hands and feet, and are common among athletes who train regularly. String instrument musicians tend to form calluses on their fingertips as a result of repeatedly pressing strings to an instrument's fretboard. It is the body's way of protecting the fingertip from long-term damage by sufficiently "padding" its surface. Among musicians, calluses are also referred to as "finger pads."


What is QuikCallus made of? Is it safe?
QuikCallus is made of the highest-quality materials available, to ensure the safest and most effective callus enhancement experience on the market. The active ingredient in QuikCallus brand callus enhancer is n-butyl cyanoacrylate. (You can read more about the history and chemistry of cyanoacrylates at Wikipedia.) This is the same active ingredient contained in TRUFILL, an FDA-approved liquid embolic system for use in presurgical devascularization. More information on TRUFILL can be found at http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/pdf/p990040.html. Though QuikCallus does not claim FDA approval under this citation, it is further indication that n-butyl cyanoacrylate is a non-toxic substance and safe for application on unbroken surface skin areas.


So isn't this stuff just glue? I can buy super glue at my local hardware store!
Not Exactly. The active ingredient in QuikCallus Callus Enhancer is n-butyl cyanoacrylate, which is a safe alternative to the ethyl- and methyl-based cyanoacrylates found in hardware grade adhesives such as Super Glue. Applying methyl-, alkyl-, and some ethyl-based adhesives to the skin results in a harmful chemical reaction, the byproduct of which is formaldehyde. QuikCallus is intended to be a non-toxic solution to the old guitarists' trick of applying cyanoacrylate to the fingertips of your fretting hand, and it boasts a low-odor, low-bloom formula to make it ideal for use on surface skin areas.


How do I use it?
1.) Squeeze the bottle to apply a thin layer of QuikCallus onto your fretting hand's fingertip. QuikCallus is effective for all types of stringed instrument players.

2.) Allow a few minutes to fully "activate." (i.e. dry) QuikCallus solidifies by reacting with hydroxide ions in your skin, so humid air and a moistened skin surface can shorten the duration of the activation process.
*NOTE* QuikCallus is a very strong adhesive, and extreme caution should be used to avoid bonding two areas of skin together!

3.) Verify that the QuikCallus has fully dried and blot with a dry paper towel if necessary.

4.) Begin playing your instrument as usual (If you wish to preserve existing calluses, follow the above steps as well. The activation of QuikCallus forms a waterproof seal over the applied area, which repels the callus-softening effects of water.)

THAT'S IT!


Can I use QuikCallus to fill cuts and scrapes?
We don't recommend it and advise that QuikCallus ONLY be used on unbroken skin surfaces. Though the formula is non-toxic, QuikCallus is not manufactured in a sterile environment and could therefore cause infection when applied to open wounds.


How can I be sure this stuff actually works?
Do the "Two-Test." Apply QuikCallus to 2 of your fretting hand fingertips, and leave the other 2 untreated. You should notice a difference after a few weeks of routinely playing your stringed instrument.


What happens if I accidentally get my fingers stuck together?
Our recommended insructions should ensure that this never happens. If it does, gently rub nail polish remover onto the affected area to dissolve the QuikCallus formula.


Where should I store my QuikCallus?
QuikCallus is best stored in a cool, dry place. The refrigerator is a good idea, or in the pocket of your gig bag. Throw in a packet of silica into the pocket to keep moisture away.


How many applications does one bottle contain?
QuikCallus is packaged in 1/3 oz. bottles, and each bottle contains over 500 applications. Remember: a small amount of applied QuikCallus goes a long way!


Can I buy QuikCallus in stores?
 Yes. Retailers interested in offering QuikCallus in their stores should e-mail sales@quikcallus.com for reselling opportunities. QuikCallus.com is the only place to purchase QuikCallus online.


Where is QuikCallus made?
 QuikCallus is manufactured and bottled in the U.S.A.