Pumice stones are created when lava hits water. They are light, yet abrasive stones that can be used for exfoliation and to remove dead skin cells.
They come in different textures, sizes, shapes and designs. You can choose which style and abrasiveness fits your needs.
Pumice stones are used on different parts of your body, but they work best, in my opinion, on your feet. They are great at removing dead skin cell build up, calluses and corns.
They can be a bit on the abrasive side, so people with sensitive skin may want to stick to using them on their feet only.
In this article, I will tell you a bit more about pumice stones, how to prep them for use and how to use them properly. I also have thrown in a few secrets that I use myself.
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What is Exactly is a Pumice Stone
As mentioned before, pumice stones are created when lava hits the water. The hardened rock is then harvested and shaped to become one of the products you purchase in the store.
They are used to help exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells and debris from the outer layer of skin. When used correctly, they can reveal beautiful, vibrant and healthy skin underneath.
It is important to know how to use them correctly. Misuse can result in removing too much skin which can cause bleeding and even lead to infection.
The first time I used a pumice stone, I scratched the hell out of my ankle. I still have the scar to show. So be patient and move slow when you first starting. That is my advice to you.
How Do I Choose a Stone
It’s dealers’ choice really. It depends on what you need it for.
There are single sided stones and stones that have different abrasiveness on either sides. These allow you to scrub with one side, and buff with the other. Some products have the pumice stone attached to a file, or a file and a brush. These were mainly designed for removing dead skin cells off of your feet.
How Do I Prep My Pumice Stone
Pumice stones should NEVER be used without prepping it first. This step is pretty simple. All you have to do is let the stone sit in warm water for 10- 15 minutes. After that, you’re good to go. This will soften the stone a bit and help it glide over your skin.
How Do I Use a Pumice Stone on My Body
You can use pumice stones on any part of your body really. Me personally, I only use them on my elbows, knees and feet. I find them too abrasive to use anywhere else. You can also use them daily if it doesn’t cause too much irritation to your skin.
To make for an easier exfoliator, soak in the tub for about 15- 20 minutes and then exfoliate. Gently rub the stone on the targeted area in circular motions with light pressure for about 30 seconds in one spot. If skin begins to turn red or feel irritated, stop and move to another spot. You may be using too much pressure or be exfoliating in one spot for too long.
The idea here is to remove the dead skin cells, not rub your skin raw like I did.
After exfoliating, rinse off with warm water. Pat dry and immediately apply a moisturizer. The exfoliating process can be very drying to the skin. Applying a moisturizer after exfoliating can add back the moisture that was lost, apply a protective barrier and nourish the skin. What’s even better, is that the removed layer of dead skin cells will allow your moisturizer to actually do its job.
How Do I Use a Pumice Stone on My Feet
If you want to remove dead skin cells and build up on your feet, using a pumice stone can be very beneficial. Prep your stone and prep your feet as well.
In a basin or a foot spa, fill it up with warm water and soak your feet for about 10 to 15 minutes. By doing this, you help loosen up the dead skin cells on the feet. You can also add essential oils to the water that can aid in foot health and odor.
After soaking, remove one foot at a time and gently rub the pumice stone on your foot focusing on the heels, calluses and corns. You may notice your entire foot feels like there is a layer of build up and film on it. Exfoliate all that off too. Switch to the other foot and repeat the process. You will notice an immediate difference.
You may not get all the dead skin off in one go round. You may have to have a few more sessions before you notice a significant change. That is ok.
After exfoliating your feet, pat them dry and apply a moisturizer on them. I recommend a thick creamy lotion or butter.
My secret to softer is feet is to exfoliate them every time I get out of a long shower. When the skin is still soft and easy to remove. Old skin cells are always being replaced by new skin cells and are always shedding. It’s a never ending process, but by exfoliating your feet on a regular basis, you can maintain the softness.
After I exfoliate, I moisturize my feet and then put on socks. The socks not only reduce the oily footprints on the floor (cuz yea, who wants to clean that up everyday?) but they also help keep the moisture on my feet making them even more soft.
This is a good trick if you’re going out and have to wear heels or sandals but forgot to get a pedicure. Even if you don’t exfoliate your feet, after your shower, apply a moisturizer to your feet, then put on socks. After you arrive to the event, take the socks off and put on your heels or sandals. Let me know what you notice about your feet!
Caring for Your Pumice Stone
After each use of your stone, and before it dries, rinse it off thoroughly in warm, running water to remove the dead skin cells and debris from the stone. Using a bristle brush can help with this process. You can add a small amount of soap to it, to ensure it’s really clean. If it isn’t cleaned properly, bacteria can begin to grow on it and it will be no good.
Place the stone in a cool, dry area and it allow it to dry on its own. Keep it away from moisture to avoid bacterial growth.
For a deep cleaning, boil the pumice stone for about 5 minutes in boiling water. Use caution removing and handling the stone because… well, the damn thing will be hot.
How Will I Know When to Replace My Stone
One way to know if your pumice stone needs to be replaced is if it grows mold or has mold spots on it. Another indicator of replacement would be if the stone becomes too small to use or too smooth to be effective.
Precautions When Using Your Stone
Pumice stones may not be for everyone and individual results can occur. Some people, like myself, can find them to be a bit too abrasive. People with sensitive skin may only want to use them on their feet or rough patches like elbows and knees.
If you use too much pressure and rub in one spot too long, you may run the risk of breaking the skin. If this happens, stop use, and use and antiseptic on the broken skin. Do not use a pumice stone on any wounds, or open skin to avoid added pain and infection.
Do NOT share your pumice stone with anyone else.
This is a good time to be selfish. If other members of your household want to use a pumice stone, gift them their own.
If you’re not sure about using pumice stones, be sure to speak with your doctor or dermatologist.
What was you experience using pumice stones? Let us know in the comments below.
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. Neither Self Verve nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. Be sure to contact your physician before trying any of the items stated in the above article.
