Are Pumice Stones Safe?

Are Pumice Stones Safe?

Would you like to get rid of dry skin on your feet but aren't sure if using a pumice stone is a safe option? Dr. George Tjamaloukas and Dr. callsusesKathy Tjamaloukas, your Land O' Lakes and Wesley Chapel, FL area foot doctors, discuss the safety of pumice stones and share some tips for using the stones.

Pumice stone safety

Pumice stones offer a simple way to get rid of dead skin cells that can make you want to hide your feet from view. As long as you exercise caution when using the stones, they're perfectly safe. Keep these tips in mind when you use your pumice stone:

  • Soak first: Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes before you use the stone. Soaking softens the skin, making it easier to remove the cells.
  • Keep the stone wet: Wet stones slide over your feet easily. Using a dry stone may damage your skin.
  • Use light pressure: Pressing too hard on the pumice stone can also injure your skin, which may put you at risk for developing an infection. When you rub the stone over your feet, apply gentle pressure using a circular motion. Be sure to re-wet the stone periodically as you work on your feet.
  • Don't skip the final steps: Rinse your feet to remove the loosened dead skin cells, dry them thoroughly and apply a thin layer of moisturizer.
  • Clean the stone: The tiny openings in the pumice stone can harbor bacteria. Remove it by washing your stone with an anti-bacterial cleanser and storing the stone in a dry place, rather than in the shower. Disposable pumice bars are a good choice if you're looking for an easier option.

Stay away from pumice stones if you have diabetes

Although pumice stones offer a simple, low-tech way to remove dead skin cells from your feet, using them isn't a good idea if you have diabetes. Any nick or cut can quickly become infected when you have the disease. Unfortunately, even minor infections can lead to serious health complications. If you're concerned about the appearance of your feet, ask your Land O' Lakes and Wesley Chapel foot doctor about other ways to remove the dead skin.

Your Land O' Lakes and Wesley Chapel, FL area foot doctors are available to address all of your foot care concerns. Call Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Center, PA, at (813) 909-0865 to schedule your appointment.