![A pumice stone is a type of stone formed during volcanic eruptions.](https://images.medicinenet.com/images/article/main_image/what-is-a-pumice-stone-used-for.jpg?output-quality=75)
A pumice stone is a type of stone formed during volcanic eruptions. It is a lightweight, foam-shaped grey stone with abrasive properties. Hence, a pumice stone is often used to exfoliate the skin and remove dry, dead skin from the elbows and knees, resulting in softer and smoother skin. It can soften the calluses and corns and reduce associated friction. It can also be used to scrape off dry skin from the cracked heels. A pumice stone can help get rid of ingrown hair. It may be used to remove body hair; however, it is not the most effective way to get rid of hair. A pumice stone can be used on the skin every day but should be used properly to avoid removing too much skin. If too much skin is removed, it can result in bleeding or increase the risk of infection. Those who have other skin disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, open wounds of the skin, and bleeding disorders that can cause easy bruising and bleeding should not use a pumice stone to exfoliate.
How to use a pumice stone?
It is important to use a pumice stone safely without being too abrasive or harsh on the skin. It can be used over the face and neck but with caution. A pumice stone is inexpensive and can be found in most beauty supply stores, drug stores, grocery stores, or online. Double-sided pumice stones are also available, which have an abrasive side for rougher skin and a softer side for more sensitive areas or buffing.
Following instructions can help use a pumice stone safely and effectively:
- A large bowl or basin of warm, soapy water can be used to exfoliate the feet and hands with a pumice stone. A pumice stone can be used over the rest of the body and face in the shower or bathtub.
- The stone should be cleaned before using it, and the water should be warm and clean.
- The skin should be allowed to soak in the water for 5-10 minutes, making it softer and easier to exfoliate. Soap or oil can be added to the skin and/or water to further soften the skin and hydrate it.
- While scrubbing the skin, the pumice stone should also be soaked in warm water. A wet pumice stone is gentler on the skin, reduces skin injury, and glides over the skin easily.
- The skin should be gently scrubbed with light pressure in a circular motion. If the skin feels sensitive or if there is pain or discomfort, exfoliation should be stopped immediately. If there is no discomfort, scrubbing can be continued till the dead skin is sloughed off and the skin is softer and smoother.
- This process should be repeated every day or few times a week to achieve and maintain soft, healthy skin. The same applies to using a pumice stone to remove body hair. It can take time for all the body hair to be removed completely. However, using a pumice stone to remove body hair may not always work.
- The pumice stone should be cleaned after use and before using the next time.
- The skin should be hydrated with a moisturizer or skin oil after exfoliation.
How to care for a pumice stone?
A pumice stone should be cleaned after and before every use. It can be cleaned using a brush. The stone can also be boiled in hot water for 5 minutes for deep cleaning and disinfection. The stone should be allowed to dry completely and stored in a dry place. A pumice stone should not be shared with other people, including family members. Each person should have their own stone. The stone will eventually wear out with time, becoming smaller and too smooth to be effective. When this happens, the stone should be replaced.
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