Sometimes, when you touch our feet and elbows, they feel rough like a rock, don't they? Some people have cracked feet, or corns and warts, which are very annoying. So, something that many people use for this kind of thing is called a 'pumice stone'. You may have seen these in pharmacies and shops. But although this is very useful, it can also damage the skin if not used properly. So, today we will talk about what this pumice stone is, what are its benefits, and most importantly, how to use it without harming the skin.
What is this pumice stone?
Simply put, pumice is a special type of rock that forms when lava erupts from a volcano and then suddenly cools. It is very light and has many holes, making it look like a sponge. Due to its rough nature, it is used to remove dead skin cells, or as we say, exfoliate the skin.
In dentistry, this pumice is ground into powder and added to some of the things used to polish teeth. But among us, it is famous as a device that removes dead skin cells and cleanses the skin. Both natural pumice stones and artificial ones can be found at a low price.
What are the benefits of a pumice stone?
A pumice stone is mainly used to remove dead, rough skin. There are several problems that we can solve with this.
| Problem | How to use a pumice stone |
|---|---|
| Warts | Warts are skin growths caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). When treating warts on the hands and feet, a pumice stone can be used with a medication such as salicylic acid, as prescribed by a doctor. As the medication exfoliates the skin, the pumice stone removes the dead skin and allows the medication to penetrate deeper. |
| Corns and Calluses | When you wear tight shoes or when you constantly put pressure or rub on the same area, the skin can become thick and rough, forming corns. You can remove the dead skin by soaking these areas in lukewarm water for a while and then rubbing them with a pumice stone. Then, apply a moisturizer. |
| Dry and rough skin | This product is said to remove dry, rough skin, especially on the soles of the feet, elbows, and knees. However, it is not recommended for sensitive areas like the face or for acne-prone skin. |
| Ingrown hair | After removing body hair (shaving, waxing), some hair follicles can become ingrown and appear as red, itchy blisters. Gently scraping the area with a pumice stone to remove the dead skin will help to release the clogged hair follicle. Regularly cleaning the affected areas can help prevent this problem. |
Okay, now let's see how to use this exactly.
Using a pumice stone is very easy. However, if done incorrectly, it can damage, injure, and even discolor your skin . So follow these steps carefully.
Most importantly: Never use a pumice stone on dry skin. Always use it when both the skin and the stone are wet.
1. Moisten the skin: If you are removing thick skin, such as on your feet, soak the area in a bowl of lukewarm water for about 5-10 minutes. This will soften the skin considerably.
2. Wet the pumice stone: Wet the stone thoroughly with water before using it.
3. Rub gently: Now, with the wet stone, rub very gently on the softened skin, without causing any pain . It is best to rub in a circular or side-to-side motion. Never rub with too much force. Doing so can cause the skin to become red, inflamed , and injured.
4. Continue until the skin comes off: Continue to scrub until the dead, dry skin is removed. But don't go overboard. Stop when the skin's surface is smooth.
5. Wash and dry: Now wash the area thoroughly, pat it dry with a clean towel, and then pat it dry.
6. Apply a moisturizer: Apply a good moisturizer to keep your skin smooth and hydrated. If you are treating someone, apply the medicine the doctor prescribed and apply a plaster.
7. Clean the stone: After use, wash the stone thoroughly and let it dry. It is best to soak it in a disinfectant solution about once a week.
Be especially careful about these things!
- Don't share your pumice stone with anyone: Use your stone only for yourself. Especially if you have warts or calluses, germs can get on the stone and infect someone else.
- Do not use on wounds or cuts : Do not use a pumice stone on wounds, cuts, abrasions, or sunburned skin. Doing so can worsen the wound and lead to infection.
- Be careful if you have sensitive skin: If your skin is very sensitive, or if your skin tone is a bit darker, scrubbing too hard can cause dark spots. So, it's best to use it very gently, or consider a gentler method.
- Do not use for genital problems: Although it is gentle on ingrown hairs that appear after shaving the bikini line, it is definitely not recommended for problems like genital warts. If you have any of these, see a doctor immediately for treatment.
When do you need to see a doctor?
Although a pumice stone is a simple home remedy, it may not be suitable for some people. If you have any of the following conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor before using a pumice stone:
People with conditions such as diabetes , poor circulation in the feet , or loss of feeling in the feet should be especially careful about this.
Because, such people may not feel even a small wound on the skin when using a pumice stone. There is a high risk of germs entering through that small wound, turning into a serious wound that does not heal, and causing a major infection. Therefore, in such a situation, do not do anything to your feet without the advice of a doctor.
Take-Home Message
- A pumice stone is something used to remove dead, hardened skin from places like the soles of the feet and elbows.
- Always use both the skin and the stone thoroughly wet. Never rub on dry skin.
- Rub very gently and lightly. Don't press too hard and damage the skin.
- After using it, wash the area, dry it, and apply a good moisturizer.
- Don't share your pumice stone with anyone else, and clean it thoroughly after use.
- If you have diabetes, circulation problems in your feet, or reduced sensation in your feet, be sure to consult a doctor before using a pumice stone.
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