I've been using alum and again I agree it gives you a good feedback on your shave and also use it to gain trackion when stretching the skin. I rinse and dry it after I've finished as I understand that it will dissolve away if left wet. If I remember correctly from history Lord Carnarvon from King Tuts tomb fame died from blood poisoning received from a razor cut. If he had used an Alum Block it may have been a better outcome !