I mix witch hazel and surgical spirit together in a ratio of approx three to one, adding a few drops of usually tea tree oil or geranium oil, as an aftershave. The surgical spirit already has castor oil in it, and this home made concoction works brilliantly for me.
I have a push-up crystal stick deodorant called "Pit Rok". The armpit has to be wetted then about seven laps with the crystal --- so far it's lasted three years! and I certainly would not use any other method. The ingredient list just says "Ammonium Alum", and I'm as sure as I can be that this is the same chemical as a barber's alum block. I am incapable of not losing styptics so shan't be buying any more however cheap. If I do get a nick I just jab the old crystal stick on.