Thread: Alum Block in Canada??

Hey all, besides ordering online, any idea what stores might carry it? or is there an equivalent? heard some people talk about witches hazel as a substitute/ alternative?
Thought that crystal body deodorant might be the same thing, but can't pin it down. also says that it contains no aluminum which wouldn't really work lol.
thanks!

You can use witch hazel in place of alum block. There are two types of alum block you can get, one contains potassium and the other contains ammonium. Potassium is the milder of the two and I believe most deodorant alum blokes are the ammonium variety. I asked a pharmacist about the difference between the two and she said the ammonium one would sting more. Based on that, I have been using Henri Bernard brand crystal deodorant for my post shave needs. Doubles as a deodorant, naturally, when you want to travel light.

Bob

Try Nutters Natural Foods.
They carry Alum and Thayers Witch Hazel

Seems Nutters Natural Foods stores are limited to Saskatchewan and Alberta. I'll have to check them out when we go west this year.

Bob

From what I understand most health food stores carry alum, usually sold as deodorant. Which is good, since my well used stick of RazoRock alum is almost worn down to the nub.

find an asian store,spice area, $1,29/lb.

Originally Posted by pixelfixed

find an asian store,spice area, $1,29/lb.

A pound? It took me nearly four years to use up a stick that was 2" x 1" LOL

If in Toronto, try the Menessentials store on Danforth Avenue. They specialize in shaving supplies ...including Alum block

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.