Thread: Use of alum block

For me using alum is also a barometer to tell me how well or poorly I shaved. Little to no tingling means I did well and stinging like hell means I either screwed up the shave royally or I had better take a look at the edge and see if it is buggered.

Bob

So glad I read this post.

I thought alum block was ment to sting likes bstard after every shave.
Seems my technique sucks!

And my blade is duffed.

no your technique and blade are to blame for alum sting. don't know how long you have used a straight, but it takes awhile to get good at it.. plus if you have no basis for knowing what a good edge is its hard to determine which one. but it don't sting if both of those are right Tc

I have never gotten the Alum block thing...Should not be needed?
If AQV sets your face afire, you have an issue.
Best to correct that instead of alum?

Now a styptic pencil can be handy from time to time!

Originally Posted by sharptonn

I have never gotten the Alum block thing...Should not be needed?
If AQV sets your face afire, you have an issue.
Best to correct that instead of alum?

Now a styptic pencil can be handy from time to time!

Never used alum until I joined the forum. I have had an issue with pimples all my life likely because I have oily skin but that disappeared when I started using alum regularly before my aftershave. Yes, even if you do not use alum but only an AS and that lights your face on fire you have a problem that is likely technique and/or duff blade related. Oth a little tingle is no so bad a thing just lets you know you are alive.

Bob

Nope it's like the home alone scene . AaaaaaRrrrrrGggggHhhhh.
Need to get my technique sorted.

Even stings after using a DE blade in a muhle safety razor.

So obviously my technique needs work.

That being said since I started with alum block I no longer get spots, ingrown or bumps .

Don’t know if anyone else has tried this, but the alum block can also be used as an anti-perspirant.

Mine usually sees action as a finger wetter for grip during the shave

Originally Posted by bigwhitetruck

Nope it's like the home alone scene . AaaaaaRrrrrrGggggHhhhh.
Need to get my technique sorted.

Even stings after using a DE blade in a muhle safety razor.

So obviously my technique needs work.

That being said since I started with alum block I no longer get spots, ingrown or bumps .

If you are getting massive tingle/burn with alum after using a DE it could well be down to using a bad angle and too much pressure on the blade. The right angle and no pressure is even more critical with a straight razor and that is assuming a good blade in either case.

Bob

Yeah it’s a good razor and derby or permasharp blades
Changed my technique this morning and wow what a difference. Still feel the alum. But more of a tingle than a FULL ON FIRE

Thanks guys