Calluses ...

[el murdoque]

As the title suggests i'm after some experiences regarding the fingertips of the right hand of fingerstyle players.
I have the problem that my fingertips will build up some calluses, but then a blister will form underneath the callus, resulting in a painful experience when continuing to play and when the blister breaks, the callus is gone, leaving me with a soft, pink fingertip with very thin skin.

I play two band practices a week and the occasional gig and that's when the blisters will form.
The job and family take large portions of my time so i don't practice as much as i'd like, picking up a bass daily but mostly only for a few minutes.
Apart from that, the only thing that i found is that my hands get rather sweaty when playing.

I started using superglue when we were practicing more for an upcoming gig and then i read about
that Rock-Tips stuff and bought a bottle to give it a try. That worked out great and i'm using that stuff now whenever i play for more than a few minutes. But i've never seen any fellow bass player using that, so it got me wandering if there is a secret i don't know. Something to strengthen the calluses and maintaining them. What are your experiences in that area?

 

[radioface]

Carry a pick and, use it when your finger tips blow out.

 

[MalcolmAmos]

Left hand calluses came over from acoustic and lead guitar. IMO Calluses are a right of passage thing. Recommend you do pick up your bass some more during the week for 15 to thirty minute sessions. That should get your calluses in shape with out causing undue pain.

Good luck.

 

[nysbob]

Exactly why I play as many gigs as possible with multiple bands. Playing bass is a physical activity that requires strength, stamina and calluses...and I never want to go through the pain of "starting over" again.

 

[delta7fred]

Don't dig in too hard, turn your amp up a little and play with a bit lighter touch. As already suggested play with a pick if you feel a blister coming on.

I just played 4 gigs in 7 days and my fingers are fine. If I play one rehearsal where I have my volume set too low (so I dig in to get more) I will end up with blisters under my callouses (I go direct into the PA for rehearsals and don't have easy access to the board).

 

[ricknote]

In my younger days I was a full time musician for more than 20 years. Playing or recording 3 to 8 hours per day. I still had issues with blisters. Some folks skin just won't callus. I used crazy glue for years when necessary. Now that I'm just gigging on weekends I'm using the Rock-tips brand as well. I've met a few players over the years that have the same problem. It may not be common but it's hardly rare. My advise? Try to play the same amount of time daily if possible. Lighten up your touch if possible. Good luck and keep playing!

 

[mactac]

I use superglue for that purpose all the time. I put on 4-6 really thin layers, letting each dry in between.