Thread: Alum block

Good day all,

Just got my alum block in. Since I have a formal event I immediately did the show and shave thing.

The sting was something of a shock at first but after it was much better than using aftershave. Tightened everything nicely. Things were a little dry but a light touch of balm took care of that.

Works so much better than aftershaves why did it fall out of disfavor and get so hard to find?

Jim

In the west I think every used styptic pencils but in Turkey all the barbers still use it.

With the sting if you have a good shave it will not sting but if you scrape too much or get the wrong angle it will sting more.

I use alum every time I shave its good stuff.

+1 on using the alum block dailey. I also use it on my wet fingers to help get traction on my skin when stretching my face.

It didn't really fall out of disfavor it was something used with Straights and DE's so it just followed them.

I used an alum block exclusively as an astringent following my shave up until this past summer, when I switched over to witch hazel.

Now that fall/winter is approaching, I'll be switching back to my trusty alum block.

Gentlemen:

In the U.S., alum block fell into disfavor at barbershops mostly because of the country's strict health requirements: that is to use the same alum block on all the customers.

Also, as thebigspendur points out, alum block's decline coincided with that of the straight razor and the double edge. The traditional shave, really. What's more, manufacturers poured in mountains of aftershave products and the poor alum block had no chance against them.

I believe alum block will always have some sting, and how closely and vigorously you shave will determine just how potent the sting.

Regards,
Obie

I use an alum block daily as well. After I rinse it off, I follow it up with some ASB. Works great!

I use alum now with every single shave. I used to not like it, but now I can't live without it.

I use it for traction on my fingers for skin stretching and I use it immediately post shave after I rinse with cold water. I have noticed that besides working great as an aftershave, it has helped my face with any blemishes and irritated skin in the non shave area.

It has really helped my skin post shave and otherwise.

Are there any health issues regarding the alum block? Isn't it made out of an aluminum compound? I've read several article about the toxicity of aluminum based deodorants and links to Alzheimers.

Drac,

I started using an alum block (Bloc Osma) in my routine, some six (6) months ago, and I have really enjoyed its contribution to the shave

I get my alum block from Connaught Shaving (http://connaughtshaving.com)

Alum blocks may be made of either potassium aluminium sulphate (sulfate) or ammonium alumnium sulphate (sulfate).

It seems the potassium alum is preferred for shaving use

Flyman - if you rinse off the alum after it has done its work, I think any risks from aluminium toxicity will be reduced considerably. The problem with aluminiums' use in deodorants, is that is remains in place for may hours.

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ