Thread: Alum block sting?

I always use the alum block, after the cold water rinse.
I doesn't sting, except at shaving blemishes, if they occur.

Sure, I can feel a mild astringent effect, but it's more a titillating sensation than something painful.

I didn't vote but it varies. Sometimes it stings a little and sometimes it doesn't and sometimes it depends on different areas of the face. Its one of the ways I know when a razor is getting close to needing a touchup honing.

I use after the rinse. I like the feel of my skin after using it. Sometimes it stings, sometimes it doesn't. I'll have to start paying more attention, I never thought about it being an indication of blade sharpness.

I use alum to stop the bleeding I will try it all over tomorrow, which I have not done in a while, in order to see if it still smarts as much as alcohol on fresh shaved skin

Like Glen, I use the alum primarily to judge my shave. Those bits that sting tell me that I've been too heavy with the touch. It has got to the stage where I pretty much know exactly where it's going to sting before I use it. When I do achieve BBS and zero sting, that's an indication of a GREAT shave .

Happens about once every three shaves. The first time I used alum I thought I was going to die, it hurt that much. So it's a great way to improve your technique.

I use it every now and again to get the face to tighten...It is a great feel.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

I didn't vote but it varies. Sometimes it stings a little and sometimes it doesn't and sometimes it depends on different areas of the face.

Exactly my experience. I'd vote between no sting and bracing if that were an option.