Pumice stones and nail files both play a role in pedicures, and both can have other uses around the house. You can buy pumice stones and nail files at beauty supply stores, or the health and beauty section of general household stores. Though they sometimes serve similar functions, they can't be used interchangeably. Use the pumice stone for rough work and the nail file for more delicate jobs.
Structure
Pumice stones and nail files employ an abrasive surface to smooth rough edges. Pumice is a lightweight, natural rock that is actually a volcanic glass, according to the University of California at Pomona. The surface of the rock is a fine abrasive that has industrial and household uses. Metal nail files get their abrasive surface from lines or cross-hatching incised in the metal. Emery boards, another kind of nail file, consist of a thin sheet of cardboard with sandpaper glued to one side.
Function
The rough but soft surface of pumice makes it a good choice for rubbing away dry skin or removing the hard outer surface of callouses on your feet or hands. Pieces of the pumice stone crumble away as you rub, but as long as you don't bear down with too much pressure, the stone won't harm your skin. The finer surface of a nail file or emery board smooths jagged edges on fingernails and toenails without damaging the nail itself.
Precautions
To avoid injury, choose the right tool for the right job and work with a light hand. Don't rub too hard at your skin or your nails, or you could cause bleeding and pain. Smooth the area for a few seconds, then brush away any dust from the pumice or emery board and check the results. Stop as soon as you've achieved the smoothness you want. Keep pumice stones and nail files clean and don't share them with others, to lessen the chance of infection.
Considerations
Both pumice and emery boards work best on wet skin or nails. Soak your hands or feet in warm water for a few minutes before you begin your pedicure, or apply the pumice or nail file right after your shower.
Other Uses
You can use pumice to remove stains from porcelain sinks or toilets without damaging the porcelain. Use an emery board in place of a striker for lighting matches. Use the emery board to rough up the edge of two items you need to glue to together by rubbing the emery board across the surfaces to be glued before you apply the adhesive. McKinley Health Center reports you can remove warts by covering the wart with duct tape for six days, then removing the tape, soaking the wart in water, then debriding it with an emery board or pumice stone. Repeat this cycle until the wart is gone.
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