How to Use a Foot Pumice Stone

A pumice is molten lava that has hardened into a porous rock. Many people use pumice stones during pedicures because the texture, similar to that of sandpaper, makes it easy to buff away excess dry, rough and cracked skin from the bottom of feet. A foot pumice stone is also effective in exfoliating the skin and reducing calluses and foot corns. A pumice stone is a safe and handy tool, but can be very harsh and painful if not used properly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basin, bucket, or foot bath
• Liquid soap or body wash
• Washcloth
• Towel
• Moisturizing lotion

1. Fill a large basin, bucket or foot bath with warm water.

2. Add about 2 tbsp. of liquid soap or body wash to the water. A moisturizing body wash is a great choice.

3. Soak your feet in the warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes, or until feet feel soft. A pumice stone works best when feet are soft.

4. Wet the pumice stone in the soapy water.

5. Rub the pumice stone over the bottom of your foot, using a back-and-forth motion. Make sure to pay special attention to the heel, because this area of the foot tends to be the toughest. You may also gently run the pumice stone over calluses and corns. This process should be repeated for about 5 minutes.

6. Wash your feet in the bucket of water, using a clean washcloth. You should notice that your feet are much softer. Remove your feet from the bucket and dry them with a towel.

7. Moisturize your feet with a moisturizing lotion to soothe them.

Tips & Warnings

• While a foot pumice stone can remove a great deal of dead skin after one use, it won't completely reduce calluses and corns. This is a gradual process. Repeat these steps two or three times weekly until you're satisfied.
• Be careful not to rub too hard with the pumice stone, as it can cause bleeding and injury. If you suffer from diabetes or peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation to the feet and legs) ask your doctor if it's safe to use a foot pumice stone on corns and calluses. Do not use a pumice stone on sore or damaged skin.

References

• Diabetic Foot Care
• Pumice Stone and Foot Care
• Using a Pumice Stone