The simultaneous actions of rapid cooling and pressurization of lava results in the formation of bubbles that freeze in the matrix, giving a porous nature to the pumice stone. This stone has variety of uses, mainly because of its porosity and lightweight nature. It is mainly used as a smoothing tool. Available in different shapes and sizes, it also comes with a handle which makes it easier to use. Uses Exfoliation It is commonly used in beauty salons to exfoliate the skin. The hard and rough surface of the stone helps to scrape away the dead skin layer that is responsible for breakouts and dull complexion. The holes present collect debris and give the skin a smooth texture. For the purpose of skin exfoliation, make sure you go for smooth stones available in any beauty or cosmetic section. Some varieties may be too jagged and harsh for using on the sensitive skin, and hence can be used on areas that needs heavy exfoliating. Many creams or cleansers contain crushed pumice stones that act as a gentle exfoliating agent on sensitive skin. Pedicure and Manicure This stone is a must-have for manicures and pedicures. It helps to loosen cuticles and removes dead skin. Its effective usage can smooth your hands and rejuvenate your feet. Along with curing dry and cracked feet, it also helps in removing rough areas like corns and calluses. When rubbed on these areas, patches of rough dead skin are removed due to the friction, thus revealing the smooth inner layers. Hair Removal The use of pumice stone for hair removal started way back during the ancient Greek and Roman times. Rubbing it briskly in circular movements helps in getting rid of the hair on the skin. This method takes a long time and may damage your skin if you rub the stone too hard. However, it effectively removes hair and dead cells, making your skin smoother. Toilets A regular usage can help you remove those nasty rust stains that give an unpleasant look to your toilet. Any built-up residue can be scraped away easily using a pumice stone. The stubborn toilet ring disappears within no time and leaves your toilet bowl sparkling like new. Other Uses These stones are porous and can hold soap and water. Moreover, they are lightweight and have an abrasive surface which allows them to be used for household cleaning. Another use is for is for stone-washing jeans. Pieces of pumice are added in a large washing machine along with the jeans. The stones cause wear and tear of the jeans during the process, and thus comes a worn look to the jeans. Finely-ground pumice is used in some toothpastes as a mild abrasive. It is also used in polishes, pencil erasers, heavy duty hand cleaners, and scrubs. However, the stone used in cleaners is harder and is not the same used for skin care. So make sure you purchase the pumice stone specific for the purpose you want it for. Tips on Cleaning the Stone The pumice stone has innumerable holes in it and the debris or residue gets stuck in them, every time you use the stone. Clogging of pores with the residue can make it less effective. Hence, it is important to clean the stone after every use. Just swish it in soapy water and then rinse well with plenty of clean water to wash away the debris. You could also scrub it lightly with a brush to remove the stubborn residue. If you still find it unclean, you could boil it with a little bit of bleach.