Thread: Styptic pen stink?

It didn't when I got it, now it really smells bad, not a scent I can describe I don't think, like nothing to compare. I dry it before closing it and the previous one I had never smelled. Any ideas?

Interesting...

I believe that most styptic sticks are basically aluminum chloride (AlCl3). I know that when it comes in contact with blood (cuts/weepers) that there is a chemical reaction (stinging). Microscopically, the hypertonic AlCl3 causes the blood to lyse (break up). The aluminum creates a reaction and releases the delta-aminolevulinic acid synthetase (ALA-S) that is normally circulating in your blood. The ALA-S and chloride has a distinct odor-- combination of metalic/organic. Its kind of hard to describe exactly what it smells like.

I would take a tissue with a little hot water, and wipe the stick down to remove all the old blood and let it air dry. This is about the only thing I can think that MIGHT be the culprit...

Just a guess....

Let me know if it changes or gets stronger right after you use it?

Best,
-K

Cheers K. Will try that tomorrow. I tend to rinse it to remove any blood after use and dry with a tissue, bit with things like this it's easily possible that I'm only removing the discolouration and not all traces.

Originally Posted by dmnc

It didn't when I got it, now it really smells bad, not a scent I can describe I don't think, like nothing to compare. I dry it before closing it and the previous one I had never smelled. Any ideas?

Where did you use it ?

Dip it in some Lilac Vegetal. That will kill anything.

I agree wipe it down real good. The stick by itself should not smell.

It tastes worse than it smells :<0) But if you have a canker sore it will make it go away very quick.

Originally Posted by 10Pups

It tastes worse than it smells :<0) But if you have a canker sore it will make it go away very quick.

Yeah, but it can sure may your eyes water...
That pH really lets you know when you have an open wound/sore....

Originally Posted by dmnc

Cheers K. Will try that tomorrow. I tend to rinse it to remove any blood after use and dry with a tissue, bit with things like this it's easily possible that I'm only removing the discolouration and not all traces.

What type of tissue is being used?
For the toilet, or say a kleenex for your nose.
Toilet may have fragrances in it.
Kleenex may have moisturizers.
Just a thought.[emoji189]

Originally Posted by dmnc

It didn't when I got it, now it really smells bad, not a scent I can describe I don't think, like nothing to compare. I dry it before closing it and the previous one I had never smelled. Any ideas?

Rule #2 of the biochemist: Do not smell. Nothing. If the thing smells, it will get a chance to let you know, do not be an smell enterpreneur.

Sorry, I know I don´t know you enough to make fun, but I could´t resist.

You don't need pants for the victory dance. Childhood memories. Used in the bathroom. Toilet tissue unscented, definitely not what anyone would describe as a pleasant smell. I think thankfully I don't own lilac vegetal. May try lavanda if cleaning doesn't work. Making fun of me is one of my favourite sports.