Thread: Differences in Alum

I think it's like ham; one is reconstituted the other actual stuff. I've used both types. The crystal type lasts longer but both work the same. Opinion/perception not scientific answer.

K2SO4Al(SO4)3·24H2O is the real stuff. It also comes in a sodium type and ammonium type. So the stuff can be manufactured or can come au natural as found in nature.

So, your experience with Alum will depend on the type and how pure it is.

A little bit of a necro but we will let it slide smoothalum The more pure the better!

Aloha!

I have always used a Styptic (traveling) or Alum Block (home) and never paid much attention to quality. I just bought whatever commercially available pencils and blocks were convenient. My current Alum Block is Gentleman Jon's Alum Block. I never even considered quality differences, but I suppose there are.

Oddly, to coincide with this thread re-up, for the first time in my wet shaving history, I just yesterday ordered Proraso Styptic Gel instead of Alum or Styptic Pencil. I have wanted to try the healing gel for quite a long time. Supposedly, no white spot or streak, no rinsing and the additional benefit of Menthol and Eucalyptus in the gel to promote comfort and healing.



I've been using a Styptic Pencil since, well, forever. I definitely need some sort of wound dressing when I use a Shavette. Not so much with a straight razor, and I haven't cut or nicked myself with a DE in so long it's out of my memory banks.