Thread: Alum Block and Stypics

So, it sounds like my noobie kit is finally on the way... since I keep reading about these Alum Blocks and Stypics.....
what are they??? Are they available at a local drug store (CVS/Walgreens)?

I have a lot of problems with ingrowns with my current Gillette Sensor shave...

A styptic stick is available it your local drugstore or supermarket, wherever shaving goo is sold. It is a chemical stick containing alum and other salts that stop bleeding insyantly. They look like a crayon. As incentive to not cut yourself again they sting like hell.

Alum is different. It is potassium salt. It too will stop bleeding, though not as fast as a styptic but most guys use it as a pre/post shave treatment. In addition to stopping bleeding it is an astringent so similar in effect to alcohol or which hazel, pre-shave it's reported to help the beard stand up straighter. It looks like a block of cracked ice. Alum is also sold as "deodorant crystals" and make a good underarm odor preventer as well. If you scrape up your face during the shave or get even slight razor burn and use alum you will experience a burning sensation, similar but completley different from the alcohol burn with traditional aftershaves.

I use my alum most every day before using a scented aftershave and quite enjoy the effect. Some guys though hate it.

Just to echo what's been said...

The alum block can be used pre- and post-shave, most people using it after the shave as an astringent. If you've been a little heavy handed during your shave, the alum block will sure as hell let you know. OTOH, if you've had the perfect light touch, you'll feel nothing more than a little 'scrinching up' of the skin (which to me feels good). I therefore find it more useful as a weather vane to tell me if I've been too aggressive in the shave, exactly which parts of my face I've pressed too hard, and where to ease up next time around. Whilst I was learning it was an invaluable tool. Similarly, it tends to tell you when your blade might need a quick refresh on the hones or paddle.

I used to dread finishing with the alum block, but it's a real kick when you get zero burning from it and a BBS shave -- to me that indicates a successful shave!

http://straightrazorpalace.com/showt...highlight=alum

Also info here

Originally Posted by Wildtim

A styptic stick is available it your local drugstore. As incentive to not cut yourself again they sting like hell.

LOL Too funny, but very true

Well, at walgreens tonight I was able to find a styptic, and some stuff called "bumpstop", which isn't alum, but if it works does what I want.

Originally Posted by bbshriver

Well, at walgreens tonight I was able to find a styptic, and some stuff called "bumpstop", which isn't alum, but if it works does what I want.

I've used the bumpstop before a long time ago. It burns like hell but it will help with ingrown hairs. The alum bar will be far more efficient for you and you can order some at classic shaving. I think their brand costs $10 and it probably works just as well as any other. Somebody with more experience can chime in and let you know...

you can get alum at GNC for like 5 or 6 bucks

You can get them here for $2. Buy 5 and get them for $1.79 each. http://www.tulumba.com/storeitem.asp?ic=BB547960UD875

bj

As was said, GNC is probably the best local source for alum...I went by my local GNC the other day and picked up a perfect sized stick for shaving for $1.99...