Thread: first shave with alum block

I recently got an alumblock from classic shaving while ordering some other things. I really didnt think I would like it but after all the surprising positive comments about it I decided to give it a try. I turns out I really like it It doesnt work well with a normal aftershave balm or cream because it seems to make the cream dry out and turn into hard clumps, but it works REALLY well with GFT skin food. So now I can get that sting I love from regular aftershave,without the alcohol and use skin food, its a perfect combo for me

Josh,
That sting is what some might call 'negative' feedback. Although it seems that you enjoy it go figure . I too use an alum block after each shave and I find that it tells me immediately if I've gotten too aggressive when shaving...that sting you mention.

My best shaves, BBS after 3 no pressure passes with a wicked sharp razor, end with an alum block application that does not sting, but tones my face (the skin just feels like it has tightened up a bit).

I too have noticed that AS balm is incompatible with alum. However, I really love T&H Classic Balm during the winter. My solution has been to follow the alum rub with another cold water splash before applying the balm.

Cheers,
Ed

I use an alum block after each shave as well. I put it on after the shave and leave it set while i clean my razor, bowl, brush, etc. Then I rerinse my face with cold water and a cold clothe before applying an a/s balm. This might resolve your clumping issue and let you use the alum with any a/s you like.

All the best,

John

I've used an alum block since I started shaving with a straight, forgot to pack it on a trip last week and appreciate it more after not being able to use it for a while. I always do a cold water rinse after applying it as the guys above mention, have never had any incompatibility problems with aftershave or balm.

I generally use an alum block after shaving, I just splash cold water on my face rub over with the alum block, pat dry after about minute and then apply a moisturiser or a shave balm. Some shave balms have the effect of closing the pores that have been open by the hot water used in the shave prep, and tightening the skin e.g. Trufitt & Hill whilst others tend to be oilier.

Alum closes the pores of the skin additionally it has antiseptic properties that soothe the skin and will stop bleeding in the event of a small cut. Remember to dry the Alum block after use.

John

I had contemplated splashing cold water after the alum block, but I wasnt sure how long it takes for the antiseptic properties to really kick in. How long do you guys wait to use cold water after using the alum block?

I don't time it but by the time I clean my brush, put everything away, etc., it's probably about 3 minutes. By then my face is tight and I would say the antiscepticizing is over.

All the best,

John

Originally Posted by JLStorm

I had contemplated splashing cold water after the alum block, but I wasnt sure how long it takes for the antiseptic properties to really kick in. How long do you guys wait to use cold water after using the alum block?

Almost immediately, just the 30 seconds or so it takes me to rinse off the end of the alum block with cold running water, pat it dry with a towel and put it away in the plastic storage container it came in. That's all the time it takes for my face to feel smoother and tighter from the alum block.