Thread: alum block question

Originally Posted by jmercer

Alum is alum for sure. Simply; for me it is a visual and tactual thing. A nice machined solid block of alum has some visual aesthetics to add to shaving experience. Nice ones with just a couple flaws/fractures looking like a large block of diamond sitting next to that $traight razor and other $tuff.

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Where did you get the nice clear one? I agree that they just look great sitting next to everything!

There are lots of sources for Taylor of Old Bond Street Alum Blocks. I'm not sure how clear they all will be. Your results may vary. It was the clearest of eight or so different brands I tried and the only one that had the clear look to it. I only have the one so not totally sure of clearness, maybe I got lucky.

I'll also add that it was not shiny clear surface out of box. After a couple uses the surface went clear.

If you do one let us know if you got a clear one.

I use razor rock alum. I rince my face then apply alum. ThenI shave my head, rince head, and face. Pat dry, then apply Thayers witch hazel alchol free. It work great for me!!

Until I read this thread, I've never rinsed off the alum...never saw any instructions saying to do so. I will start rinsing tomorrow!

That's OK it takes a few years of doing that before the alum eats into your skin and you begin to look like the "Hideous Sun Demon".

Osma works well for me.