Thread: Witch Hazel instead of Alum block?

Originally Posted by Nightblade

I like to throw the witch hazel no alcohol/no scent on my mug followed by some clubman special reserve or citrus musk.I just use my alum block primarily for a deoderant nowadays. Sometimes I just like to throw Sardine oil on my face.........Women really love it !

Female cats love it. You are either silly or confused.

It really depends on my mood, but normally I tend to use both. Alum to start, I leave it on while I'm cleaning my brush, I rinse then apply Thayer's Witch Hazel in what ever scent I happen to have. They have a bunch, and they're all good, Peach, Cucumber, Rose, Lemon, Good stuff.

In response to your question, witch hazel is not designed as a substitute for an alum block, it's just an astringent that stands on its own. Like most of the guys who have replied, some use one, the other, or both. About 1/2 of the time, I use an alum block after the shave, let it sit while I floss, then rinse with cold water, pat dry, then throw on some Thayers' Rose witch hazel (alcohol free), and let it dry on my face as I brush my teeth. Then I throw on some aftershave (I only have two, Pinaud and Floid Blue), or aftershave balm (I have three), depending on how I feel. Some days I only use the block, and some days only Thayers, and some days, neither. No rhyme or reason that I can think of. My face, overall, does feel better when I use both the block and Thayers.

I have access to plain old Witch Hazel 86% with 14% Alcohol, as a soon to be new shaver should I also acquire a Alum block?

I did. WH is great, but alum is to WH like TNT is to a cap gun in my findings.

I spoke to a pharmacist about the two the other day and she said that the Alum block, when used as a deodorant (crystal deodorant), can slowly build up a layer on the skin if not washed off conscientiously. Besides that, they do the same thing-and hurt like Hell!

I'd suggest that they do not hurt any more than an alcohol aftershave in my findings....and as my technique has improved (less pressure, better angle, better stretching) they do not burn at all unless there are nicks.

Opinions vary. You gotta find out for yourself.

Nothing tightens my skin like alum. Amazing the first couple times you use it (and beyond,but you assimilate it into your expectations)

What is it about shaving that makes one need to tighten their skin?

I understand the styptic pencil but I'm not quite sure of the logic of the alum block? I do use Witch Hazel however.

I use both. Alum for its antiseptic and antibacterial action. May be a little old fashioned( or just Mysophobic ) but feel best using it right after I wash the lather off and before the Aftershave.

Just got an alum to try out. I use both it an witch hazel together. I also apply alum as a pre shave to make the stubble stand up. I tend to have oily skin so this regimen seems to be working well.

Bob