If you’ve ever had a pedicure, you’ve likely experienced the exfoliating powers of the pumice stone. What if we told you that you can buy your own pumice stone to exfoliate, remove unwanted hairs, and keep your skin looking dewy and fresh—all from the comfort of your own home? Keep reading to learn how.

What is a Pumice Stone?

A pumice stone is a porous, abrasive stone that has been used for more than 2,000 years to remove dry, dead skin. Pumice stones are formed when lava and water mix together. As the lava cools down, it creates the pumice stone’s unique texture, making it the perfect exfoliator.

Pumice Stone Benefits 

There are several benefits associated with pumice stones and skincare, including:

Exfoliates the Skin

Pumice stones have been proven to help remove hyperkeratotic tissue— excess or thickening skin on the outer layer. Pumice stones work to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin and calluses. They can also be used to treat skin corns and plantar warts. 

Removes Skin Stains

Pumice stones can also cleanse the skin and remove stains without harsh chemicals. This is a great option for painters and people who get skin stains from hobbies and occupations. 

Removes Unwanted Hairs

Pumice stones can also be used to remove unwanted and/or excess hairs. This isn’t recommended for sensitive areas, but it can be used to remove hair from the forearms, shins, and other areas with thicker skin. To use a pumice stone to remove unwanted hairs, use a stone with smaller holes, and make sure to soak it in warm water for about five minutes beforehand. 

How to Use a Pumice Stone For Skincare

When using a pumice stone to exfoliate your skin, it’s important to stick to thick skin and calluses because the abrasive texture of the pumice stone can be too harsh on delicate areas like the face. Instead, focus on the soles of the feet, hands, elbows, knees, and other thick and rough patches on the skin. Here are the steps to take:

1. Wet the area: Pumice stones work best on wet and/or soapy skin. Prep the area by soaking it in warm water for three to five minutes to make the dead skin cells easier to remove as well as increase the stone’s penetration. For areas that are especially rough, add gentle soap before you use the stone. You can also do this in the shower or bath.
2. Gently exfoliate: Once your skin is prepped, it’s time to begin the exfoliation. Move the pumice stone in circular motions, and start with light pressure that you increase gradually until you see the excess skin is being removed. You will start to notice dead skin cells building up on the stone as they begin to be removed from the skin. Keep going until you achieve the desired smoothness.
3. Dry the area: Once your exfoliation is finished, gently towel dry your skin. The area may be sensitive, so it’s important to not be too rough.
4. Moisturize: This is an important step. Once your skin is dry, apply a thick layer of moisturizer to help seal the fresh skin and heal any micro abrasions that may have happened during the exfoliation.
5. Clean your stone: To avoid bacteria and fungus from building up inside of the pumice stone, you must clean it after every use. Clean it with soap and water and a bristled brush. Allow it to dry completely and store it in a clean place until the next use. 

Taking care of your skin between using your pumice stone is very important for best results. Don’t forget to use lots of moisturizers and allow your stone to dry completely.