What is Pumice Extract?
Pumice Extract, also known as Pumicite, is derived from pumice – a type of volcanic rock that is rich in minerals and has a porous structure. This unique rock is formed when lava with high gas content is ejected from a volcano and solidifies rapidly. The extract is typically a fine powder that retains many of the properties of the original rock, including its abrasive nature and its mineral content.
The use of pumice and its extracts dates back to ancient times when it was used for cleaning and polishing. Its introduction into the cosmetic industry is more recent, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its unique properties. The process of making Pumice Extract involves grinding the pumice stone into a fine powder, which can then be used in various cosmetic formulations.
While there are other abrasive ingredients used in cosmetics, such as walnut shell powder or apricot seed powder, Pumice Extract is unique due to its volcanic origin and mineral content. These characteristics give it a different texture and potential benefits compared to other similar ingredients.
Pumice Extract is typically used in exfoliating products, such as scrubs and peels, due to its abrasive nature. It can also be found in some cleansers and soaps. Its function in these products is to help remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, revealing a fresher, more radiant complexion underneath. Additionally, due to its antioxidant, skin conditioning, and skin protecting properties as per the CosIng Database, it can also be found in a variety of skincare products like moisturizers and serums.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Pumice Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
Pumice Extract is known for its antioxidant properties. In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. In the context of skin care, this means that Pumice Extract can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays, thereby helping to maintain the health and vitality of your skin.
Skin Conditioning
Another official function of Pumice Extract is skin conditioning. This means that it helps to make the skin feel smoother, softer and more supple. It achieves this by enhancing the appearance and feel of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. So, if you’re dealing with rough, dry skin, products containing Pumice Extract could be a good option for you.
Skin Protecting
Pumice Extract also serves a skin protecting function. This means that it forms a barrier on the skin’s surface to protect it from external factors that can cause damage, such as harsh weather conditions or environmental pollutants. This protective barrier can also help to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Pumice Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions, but for the purpose of this article, we have focused on the direct benefits as per the CosIng Database.
Safety Profile
Pumice Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for all skin types and there is always a potential for allergic reactions. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product containing Pumice Extract.
Some potential side effects of topical application of Pumice Extract include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Swelling
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently a lack of data on the safety of Pumice Extract for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Pumice Extract are not common, but they can occur. It is always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product containing this ingredient to ensure that you do not have an adverse reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
