How to Use Pumice for Exfoliation

Having smooth skin doesn’t require complicated routines and multiple products. Many people start by simply removing the dry and dull layer of skin on their skin. Pumice exfoliants are one of the oldest ways to do this and are still popular now.

If you want to know how to use pumice as an exfoliant, this guide will help you. It will show you what pumice is, how to exfoliate with it on different parts of the body and what to take note of.

How Does it Work?

Our skin naturally sheds dead skin all the time. However sometimes it can get slower leading to dry, rough skin. This often affects your heels, elbows and knees.

Pumice exfoliants work with a gentle physical rub. As it is very fine and slightly rough it helps to pick up the dead, flaky skin from your skin. Leaving you with smoother skin.

The aim is to always use the product gently. It shouldn’t hurt and can cause irritation if you press too hard.

Where Can You Use it?

There are various places you can use pumice.

Feet

The most common place to use pumice is on your feet. As we often get dry and thick skin on the heel and sole of our feet (especially if you are wearing open footwear or standing a lot). Using a pumice foot scrub is a simple way to help smooth the skin.

Dry Skin on Elbows and Knees

Elbows and knees often feel quite rough due to the skin being thicker and not receiving as much moisture. Use the pumice gently on the dry skin. A gentle touch and applying a good moisturiser will help.

Hands

Hands can also get rough areas. Use a little of the pumice powder exfoliant and use gently. Follow with a moisturiser.

Face and Sensitive Areas

As the skin on your face and neck is a lot thinner you won’t usually be able to use body pumice products. Avoid using on your face, or anywhere that is sensitive or irritated.

How to Use

Follow this simple routine. Please note, it can be altered depending on your skin.

Patch Test

Always do a patch test. Try a little on a small area of your skin for example your inner arms. Wait to see if you get any irritation, redness or itchiness. If you do, stop using.

Soak

Soak your feet or take a warm shower. The warm water will soften the dry skin and help with exfoliating. Don’t use hot water as it can make your skin dry.

Gently Rub

If using a stone, keep it damp and gently rub in small circles. If using a pumice powder exfoliant, mix a little with water/body wash/carrier ingredient to make it a soft paste. Gently massage.

Most people won’t need to spend longer than a minute or two.

Rinse

Rinse the area well with clean water to remove all of the powder.

Moisturise

Pat dry and apply a good moisturiser.

How to Make a Simple Pumice Foot Scrub

If you enjoy making your own skincare products, try this simple pumice foot scrub. Use the below ideas as inspiration. Just make sure you only mix together ingredients that you know work with your skin.

• A little fine pumice powder
• A gentle liquid soap or carrier oil
• A little water

Mix together to create a soft paste. Massage onto your feet, rinse and moisturise. If you aren’t sure about any of the ingredients, speak to a qualified professional.

How Often Should I Exfoliate?

This will depend on your skin, area of body and product. However, for most people once or twice a week is enough. You may be able to exfoliate a little more on your feet but if you have sensitive skin you may not want to.

There is often a misconception that the more you exfoliate the better. However, if you over do it you may get dry skin, redness and irritation. If your skin feels tight, sore or irritated stop using.

What to Look Out For

Don’t over think it, just take note of a few things.

Use on Skin

Don’t use any pumice products that were intended for cleaning, building, gardening etc. Always use a pumice product intended for personal care.

Texture

Make sure it has the right texture for the area. The finer the better. Don’t use anything too rough on sensitive skin.

Check Ingredients and Instructions

Make sure the product has clear ingredients and instructions. If it doesn’t have clear information ask the seller. You can look at different pumice exfoliants and see what grade would work best for your uses.

Natural

Although natural isn’t always safe for all skin types. Natural just means it is from a natural source. Make sure you pay attention to how your body reacts.

When to Avoid and Speak to a Professional

Pumice may not be suitable for everyone. Avoid using on:

• Broken/cuts/sunburned/inflamed skin
• Rashes, sores and areas of infection
• Very sensitive skin

If you have diabetes, poor circulation or any nerve issues with your feet, speak to your doctor/podiatrist before using any foot exfoliant. If you are having ongoing issues with your skin, speak to a professional.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid:

• Pressing too hard - Use gentle movements.
• Using on dry skin - Always make sure to dampen your skin/product.
• Overdoing it.
• Not moisturising - Your skin will need moisture after exfoliating.
• Sharing - Keep your personal pumice stones clean.
• Ignoring irritation - Stop using.

With a little patience and the right product you can easily incorporate pumice exfoliating into your routine.

Final Thoughts

Pumice has remained a popular product as it is simple to use. As long as you use it gently and correctly, whether it be a stone or powder exfoliant, the rules are all the same. Use something intended for skin, do a patch test, gently use and moisturise.

Start with a little and pay attention to how your skin feels. Adjust as needed. Most of the time smooth skin isn’t about doing more, it is about doing the right thing.