Thread: Is post-shave cream/balm really necessary when you have an alum block?

Originally Posted by Mathew

By the way has anyone ever heard of Real Shaving Company Post Shave Soothing Balm?

Link here: Real Shaving Company Post Shave Balm -BullGoose Shaving Supplies



Any recommendations for cheap post shave balms/creams/splashes are appreciated.

I use this product regularly, in fact more than any other baslm. Imho it's very good compared to similar priced products. My local £ shop stocks it so for me it's always the cheapest option, but isn't cheap rubbish.

I use the alum block, let it dry, rinse again with cold water and apply a clubman mix consisting of 25% which hazel. no balms.

Personally, I started out using an alum block, witch hazel, aftershave splash (various brands/scents) followed by the Nivea sensitive skin balm. Now, I've settled in to using the alum, followed by a cold water rinse after a minute or two and then Master's Bay Rum (sold at Sally Beauty Supply for those in the U.S.).

Leaves my face feeling great!

Don't hesitate to experiment... what you're using now may be good, but adding or subtracting elements to your post shave routine could have a better result. Eventually, you'll settle in to something that works beautifully for you. The key is to keep the experimentation controlled by only changing one variable of your whole routine at a time, i.e. use the same prep, stropping routine, soap and razor as normal. Doing so helps isolate elements with a negative impact.

Worst case scenario, you might have to deal with discomfort for a few days, but the rewards are worth it if you find something better.

Alum is alright for nick and cuts, but you need to look at YOUR skin to decide what to use as a balm, or moisturizer. Because you need take care of the type of skin you have so you enjoy many comfortable years of shaving IMO,

Alum alone dries my face out too much. I use Dove Men+ Care AS balm for sensitive skin. It is scentless, so it won't clash with the scents of my soaps/creams and doesn't leave my face greasy

I used to do just alum block and rinse never had any issues but now I use it along with witch hazel and love it!!! No balm here!

Been using 444 alum block but I don't think it gets along with my skin. It feels too dry and irritated after applying it. I think even Osage Rub is kinder to my skin
+1 for Nivea balm.