Pumice Powder for Exfoliating Soaps & Scrubs – Natural Volcanic Ingredient
Pumice Powder, derived from natural volcanic ash, is a highly effective exfoliant that provides gentle to moderate abrasion in various skincare formulations. It is especially well-suited for cold process soaps, scrubs, and cleansers. Its fine particles help remove dead skin cells and grime, leaving the skin feeling smooth and rejuvenated. Pumice is particularly popular in soaps designed for rough areas like hands, feet, and elbows, or for mechanics' soaps, as it efficiently tackles tougher dirt and debris.
Key Features & Benefits
- Natural Exfoliant: Pumice Powder offers effective yet mild exfoliation, making it a great addition to scrubs and soaps for smoother, softer skin.
- Eco-Friendly: Sourced from volcanic ash, pumice is biodegradable, making it a sustainable, environmentally friendly choice for formulators.
- Customizable Texture: Available in fine to extra-fine mesh sizes, this powder allows for customizable exfoliation, making it suitable for both delicate and heavy-duty products.
- Visual Appeal: Adds texture and color variation to soaps and scrubs, enhancing the overall appearance of your formulations.
Ingredients (Common Name): Pumice
INCI Name: Pumice
CAS Number: 1332-09-08
Mesh Size: 80-200; Grade: 0-0.5
Appearance: Tan powder, solid granular or fine powder
Solubility: Not soluble in water or oil
Country of Origin: United States
Suggested Uses
- Cold Process Soap: Perfect for creating exfoliating soap bars, pumice can be added during the mid-trace stage to ensure even distribution and prevent it from sinking. Use it in soaps designed for tougher areas like feet and hands, or in mechanics’ soaps.
- Scrubs: Provides gentle exfoliation to body scrubs, helping to remove dead skin cells and grime for smoother skin.
Recommended Usage Levels
- Scrubs: 0.1% to 3%
- Soaps: 1% to 10%
Pumice in Cold Process Soap
Pumice Powder is a favorite in cold process soap formulations because of its gentle exfoliating properties. It is typically added at mid-trace to avoid sinking, and formulators often pre-mix it with oils to ensure an even spread throughout the soap. Fine or extra-fine pumice is commonly used to provide mild exfoliation, while coarse pumice is reserved for heavy-duty soaps like mechanic’s bars.
It is recommended to use between 1% and 10% of pumice in cold process soap, depending on the desired exfoliation level. Pumice doesn’t significantly affect lather but can add a slightly rougher texture. However, it works beautifully when combined with other exfoliants like poppy seeds or ground walnut shells for a more varied effect.
Storage & Shelf Life
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain quality. Keep away from moisture to prevent clumping.
- Shelf Life: Best used within one year of purchase. Once incorporated into formulations, it retains its effectiveness for up to one year from the manufacturing date.
Important Notes
- For external use only. Not intended for internal consumption or to diagnose, treat, or prevent medical conditions. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
