What Is Pumice?
Pumice stone is the end product of one of nature’s most powerful forces — volcanic activity. It forms when molten lava, rich in gas, cools rapidly, creating a lightweight, porous rock filled with tiny air pockets. This unique structure is what gives pumice its abrasive properties and allows some pieces to float on water.
Naturally light in color, ranging from white to pale gray, pumice has been used for centuries as a mechanical exfoliant to help smooth rough skin and remove stubborn dirt and buildup.
Why We Use Pumice in Soap
Finely ground pumice can be incorporated into soap as a natural exfoliating powder. In this form, it provides effective scrubbing action to help buff away dead skin cells, remove grime, and smooth rough areas such as feet, elbows, and heels.
Unlike synthetic exfoliants, pumice is naturally occurring, biodegradable, and environmentally responsible, making it an excellent alternative to plastic microbeads.
Pumice in Soap vs. a Pumice Stone
We believe a well-formulated pumice soap can be less irritating than using a solid pumice stone directly on the skin. In soap, pumice powder is:
- Finely milled for a more controlled level of exfoliation
- Suspended in nourishing plant oils and butters
- Cushioned by the natural glide of soap and glycerin
This combination allows for effective exfoliation without the harsh scraping or pressure that often comes with using a pumice stone alone.
Key Benefits of Pumice in Soap
- Deep Exfoliation: Fine, porous volcanic rock particles effectively scrub away stubborn dirt, oil, and dead skin cells.
- Cleaning Power: Cleans crevices and stubborn dirt on areas exposed to heavy soil, grease, or grime from gardening, auto work, painting, or other messy tasks.
- Natural & Eco-Friendly: A sustainable volcanic mineral, a biodegradable exfoliant, and an environmentally sound replacement for plastic microbeads.
- Improves Skin Texture: Removes dull, dead skin and leaves skin feeling smoother and cleaner.
-
Smooths Rough Patches: Great for general deep cleaning and softening of calloused areas like heels or elbows.
How to Use Pumice Soap
Pumice soap is best suited for targeted use on thicker skin, such as:
- Callused Feet
- Patchy Elbows
- Rough Knees
It is NOT recommended for sensitive skin, irritated skin, facial use, children, or full-body washing.
A Note on Sustainability
The ban on synthetic exfoliating microbeads under the Microbead-Free Waters Act of 2015 has renewed interest in traditional, earth-derived exfoliants like pumice. When responsibly sourced and properly formulated, pumice offers an effective, environmentally sound option for exfoliating personal care products.
👉 For a deeper look at the benefits, types, and science of exfoliation, read our blog The Nitty Gritty of Exfoliation
