What is Alum block and how to use it

What’s the benefit of using alum bloc after shaving

Alum block is the secret weapon of every traditional shaver.

Yes gentlemen, along with the shaving brush, the alum block is an essential tool in your grooming kit!

What is the alum block? and how it is used.

It is a natural mineral (potassium and aluminium) that has been used for ornamental purposes for centuries.

When used after shaving, alum block provides relief from razor burn and acts as an antiseptic and also as an astringent to stop bleeding from small cuts.

Use of Alum Block as an antiperspirant and deodorant

For centuries people in Africa, the Middle East and Asia have known that applying Alum block to the armpits offers protection from odours and sweat, an added advantage is that it is 100% natural.

The Alum crystal is ideal for those who wish to use a natural antiperspirant. It is not scented so you can combine it with your favourite scented deodorant.

Stone Alum for after waxing (Especially for women)

Alum is not only used by men, and women can benefit from its magical properties by soothing the skin after waxing. It is suitable for sensitive areas, including your bikini and facial area.

Alum Block’s History

Alum block was used by the ancient Egyptians 4000 years ago for its healing and antiseptic properties and it was the Romans who brought Alum to the shores of the UK. First used as a medicine and then for deodorant.

In 1436 a process of "binding" alum with stone was carried out in Tolfa, Italy, thus turning the alum block containing the stone into an industrially produced product. Pope Pius II claimed a monopoly on the alum block market, wanting to raise funds from its sales to make another crusade.

Traditional barbers commonly use alum block to deal with irritation from shaving and to stop small cuts.

Why you should use alum block on your shaving routine?

Traditional shaving is an art, which requires patience and skill. No one is perfect, even advanced wet shavers get minor cuts.

The alum block is your secret weapon for such moments. It helps by constricting blood vessels and tightening pores to stop bleeding.

Also if shaving burn is a problem for you, alum's soothing effect on the skin can reduce the appearance of irritation.

How to use Alum block after your shaving routine.

Alum Block is best used after shaving. Rinse off all the shaving cream or soap and then wet your face with cold water.

This helps close the pores and will allow the block to glide gently over the face.

Wet the alum, gently scrub your face and then let it dry.

If you have a cut, touch the block with light pressure and hold it for 20-30 seconds or until the bleeding stops.

Tingling or stinging is normal. If you are new to shaving, this can help you assess areas where your technique needs improvement for next time.

Allow 1-2 minutes to dry after use until you clean your razors then rinse your face with cold water.

Store in a dry place. If the alum block is exposed to moisture, it will slowly dissolve.

Extra Tip: You can rub it on your fingers before shaving. This will help you get a firmer grip on the razor if you use it on your fingers before you shave. If the handle slips, and it's not non-slip.

Alum Block or Styptic Pencil?

If you're a wet shaver, you're likely to get a few cuts from time to time.

Whether you are careful or experienced in using a safety razor, or a shaver is bound to happen.

The two products commonly used after shaving to close cuts are alum block and styptic pencil.

Here are some of the most important differences between the two products:

• The alum block helps stop blood from small cuts, while the astringent pencil is for deeper cuts and in corners where the alum block cannot go.
• Alum block has astringent and antiseptic properties and helps tone the face, while most astringent pencils do not.
• The astringent pencil leaves a white residue of powdery look on your face sometimes after use, while alum block does not.
• It is faster and easier to apply the alum block to your face and neck compared to the alum pencil.

Here are some of the best Alum blocks you can order from hairmaker.gr

• The Proraso Alum Block Post Shave Stone is a natural mineral stone made from potassium alum that is used as a post-shave treatment to soothe and heal the skin after shaving. It has antiseptic and astringent properties that help to close the pores and prevent infection, making it ideal for use on nicks, cuts, and razor burn. 

To use, simply wet the stone with cold water and apply it to your face, neck, or any other area you have shaved. The stone will provide an immediate cooling and soothing sensation, helping to reduce redness and inflammation. After use, rinse the stone with water and allow it to dry before storing it in a dry place. Overall, the Proraso Alum Block Post Shave Stone is a great addition to any shaving routine!

• The Bluebeards Revenge Alum Block is a post-shave treatment made from potassium alum, a natural mineral with antiseptic and astringent properties. The alum block is designed to be used after shaving to soothe and heal the skin, as well as to help prevent razor burn and ingrown hairs. 

To use the alum block, simply wet it with cold water and apply it to your face, neck, or any other area you have shaved. The block will provide an immediate cooling and soothing sensation, helping to reduce redness and inflammation. After use, rinse the block with water and allow it to dry before storing it in a dry place. Overall, The Bluebeards Revenge Alum Block is a great addition to any shaving routine and can help to improve the overall health and appearance of your skin after shaving.

• The Alum Bloc Osma is a natural way to treat your skin after shaving. It's made from a mineral called potassium alum and has antiseptic and astringent properties. These properties help to close up your pores, reduce inflammation, prevent infection, and make your skin look and feel better.

To use it, just wet the Alum Bloc Osma with cold water and apply it to your skin after shaving. It'll feel cool and soothing, and it'll help to reduce any redness or irritation you may have. When you're done, rinse it off with water and let it dry before putting it away. The Alum Bloc Osma is small enough to take with you wherever you go, and it's free from any harmful chemicals. It's a great way to keep your skin healthy and looking good after you shave.