Thread: I Hate Alum Blocks

I must be allergic to them. I tried to use it as an aftershave like soo many people before me have done. Did the hot, cold, alum block treatment. It started to burn more than anything I'd ever had on my face. And it wouldn't stop untill I threw some Bay rum/Peppermint aftershave on it. It feels like the razor burn that I used to have before the Straight....but with less hair. I'm NEVER using that thing again like this. Bleedstopper ONLY!

Am I the only one who can't take that thing?

Had the same experience long ago. I haven't used it for ages. Even if I cut myself bleeding usually stops quite quickly.

I can't fundamentally imagine a gentleman using alum as an aftershave treatment. They must not get kissed on the cheek much.

try it again but put cold water on it, makes the stinging less fierce. the cooler, the more enjoyable, and now I like it i use coral skin food afterwards.

I've also been using an Alum block with cold water, I got mine at Whole foods a very large block for $2.00..


Anyway, it does seem to sting a bit but helps with nicks, the cold water helps close up the pores / nicks. I also follow it up with an aftershave balm / Thayers WH.

my .02

Originally Posted by vcowman

try it again but put cold water on it, makes the stinging less fierce. the cooler, the more enjoyable, and now I like it i use coral skin food afterwards.

I did that...but to no avail. It really burned. Worse than anything I'd ever experienced. Not just irritation but clear out pain. I know that I have a sensative skin. I also didn't use the best soap I have that day but I figured it was worth a try.

It wasn't I still have sore skin on my throat and jawline. I thought it would just sting a little but it burned badly. Even after applying skin food.

I have very sensitive skin, as my experience with many soaps seems to prove(just applying lather before I even start shaving with most soaps is quite uncomfortable and can sting and make my face red).

However, I have no problems using alum ($15 from GFT) w/ cold water and then shortly thereafter rinsing it away (yeah, I'm sure the ladies wouldn't love the taste) IF I have had a great shave. I actually enjoy the toning / feel.

Now, IF I have been a bit careless and aggressive - no kidding it burns like there's no tomorrow and I get very red.

I can actually use it to get feedback how well I shaved. Sometimes I don't need the feedback - I know I was aggressive and don't even think about the alum! Other times I know I had a great shave and know that I'll enjoy the alum

Try shaving with your best razor, carefully and gently - if the alum stings too much after this you are probably allergic, indeed.

Cheers
Ivo

I've been using one for years. It tingles the skin a little but not such bad burning. Usually if it burns really bad it means you've got a serious case of razor burn and its just highlighting it. I've never used one to stop bleeding. The pencil is for that. It has other ingredients besides alum.

Guys,
I am sensitive to detergents and deodorants. Detergents cause contact dermatitis that shows up as a rash where I sweat. I’ve had this problem for about 50 years. Its soap or something like Cheer Free for me. The deodorant problem is new. I started using a crystal deodorant that is actually alum.

Rick

I've used the alum block and it doesn't sting anymore than an alcohol-based aftershave. If you don't normally use an alcohol aftershave then it's possible you're shaving too closely and getting some razor burn.