Pumice stones are a kind of glass formed from cooled lava, according to the Franklin Institute. They are included in many home pedicure kits and are useful for removing dead, hardened skin on the soles of the feet and for gentle exfoliation of the legs and arms. Pumice stones are especially beneficial in the home treatment of corns and calluses, which are hard areas of skin caused by pressure and friction.
Step 1
Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften any hardened skin. Avoid hot water to prevent drying out your skin. Add some moisturizing oil to the water, if desired. Alternatively, use the pumice stone while in the shower or bathtub.
Step 2
Wet the stone before use, and use your fingertips to feel for any breaks or jagged edges. Pieces of stone may break off during use, especially if the stone is not used correctly. Using a jagged pumice stone on your feet can lead to cuts or tears in your skin.
Step 3
Rub the stone gently back and forth across corns or calluses. Do not apply too much pressure and be careful not to use the pumice stone on live, soft skin. If you experience any pain or burning, immediately stop using the stone.
Step 4
Rinse your feet after a few minutes to remove any skin flakes and pumice particles, and then continue using the stone on the affected areas until your skin feels smooth or until you feel discomfort.
Step 5
Wash your feet again and check for any tears in your skin. Pat your skin dry using a clean towel and apply a moisturizing ointment to any remaining areas of hardened skin.
Step 6
Clean the pumice stone with mild soap and hot water and allow it to dry before storing. Using an unclean stone poses a risk of bacterial or fungal infection.
Tips and Warnings
- Gently rub a pumice stone over your legs, arms and body using circular motions to exfoliate your skin. This is best done while you are in the bath or shower.
- The Mayo Clinic recommends that diabetics seek medical advice before using a pumice stone to remove corns and calluses because of a higher risk of infection and other complications.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizing oil or lotion
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