What is Alum block and how to use it...

The Ultimate Guide to Alum Block – The Secret of Traditional Barbers

Alum block – Why you should use it after shaving.

The alum block is the secret weapon of every traditional barber.

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

✨ When I started shaving with a traditional safety razor, I didn’t know what an alum block was. One morning, I pressed a bit too hard on my neck — a small cut, redness, and burning sensation. My barber then gave me an alum block. He wetted it and gently applied it to my skin, and within seconds the annoying burn disappeared. From that day on, I never parted with it.

The alum block is much more than a "stone for cuts". It is a natural mineral that acts as an antiseptic, astringent, and soothing agent. I always apply it after shaving, especially on sensitive areas — like under the chin and around the neck. It not only immediately stops bleeding from small wounds but leaves the skin clean and firm, ready for aftershave or moisturizing.

Many customers at HairMania Greece, who have issues with irritation or sensitive skin, tell me after a few days: “Yiannis, this saved my skin!” And this is no exaggeration. It’s 100% natural, fragrance-free, chemical-free, and can last for months. It’s one of the smartest investments in men’s facial care.

Tip: If your razor slips, rub a little alum on your fingers before you start. The grip becomes instantly firmer and you get much better control.

At HairMaker.Gr, we bring only alum blocks that we have tested first in the barbershop. From Proraso to Osma, our selection is based on real results — not advertisements.

What is Alum Block and where is it used?

What is alum block? And where is it used?

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

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

Using Alum Block as Antiperspirant and Deodorant

For centuries, people in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia have known that applying alum block to armpits offers protection against odors and sweat, with the added advantage of being 100% natural.

The alum crystal is ideal for those who want to use a natural antiperspirant. It is fragrance-free, so you can combine it with your favorite scented deodorant.

Alum Stone for Post-Hair Removal (Especially for Women)

Alum is not only for men. Women can benefit from its magical properties by soothing the skin after waxing. It’s suitable for sensitive areas, including the bikini zone and your face.

When we talk about alum block, most people associate it with shaving. But its uses are much wider. I personally saw women customers at HairMania successfully using it after waxing — and never returning to scented, chemical-laden afterwax creams. With a single application, redness and irritation reduce immediately.

As a deodorant, it’s the purest and most natural option. It doesn’t just mask odor like conventional products; it prevents its formation. I often recommend it to people allergic to chemicals or customers wanting to reduce synthetics on their skin. It works perfectly for men and women.

As a product, it contains zero preservatives, has no smell, doesn’t stain clothes, and lasts for months. It’s the choice of those who want simplicity, effectiveness, and safe body care without exaggeration.

Tip: If you have friction issues (e.g., on thighs or legs in summer), alum helps reduce chafing and prevent irritation. A client who is a cyclist told me this, and I confirm it with other athletes!

In reality, alum block is one of those products that once you integrate it into your daily life, you wonder why you tried it so late. And I say that as both a barber and a consumer.

The History of Alum Block

The History of Alum Block

The alum block was used by the ancient Egyptians over 4000 years ago for its healing and antiseptic properties, while the Romans brought alum to the coasts of the United Kingdom. Initially used as a medicine, it later served as a deodorant.

In 1436, a process of "binding" alum with stone was developed in Tolfa, Italy, transforming the alum block into an industrially produced product. Pope Pius II claimed monopoly over the alum block market to raise funds for yet another crusade.

Traditional barbers extensively use alum blocks to manage shaving irritation and stop small cuts.

The history of alum block is fascinating. It isn’t just another aftershave but a natural mineral that has stood the test of time, serving humanity from the pharaonic era to modern barbershops. Its use by Egyptians and Romans illustrates its importance not only in grooming but also in medicinal practice.

✂️ I personally discovered alum through my grandfather's barbershop. Before all the scented aftershaves existed, barbers kept an alum stone at every shaving station. It was daily essential tool—not just for cuts. I still remember a client leaving with no irritation saying: “That was like a pharmacy in a stone!”.

Interestingly, alum has seen a resurgence with the wet shaving revival. Nowadays, modern men and even women rediscover it. You hold both tradition and functionality in your hands. This blend of “old-school” with the modern need for clean grooming is why alum block never goes out of style.

At HairMaker.Gr, we ensure to bring alum blocks from authentic sources such as Osma or Proraso, so you are sure you hold quality—and history.

How to Use Alum Block After Shaving

How to use alum block after shaving.

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

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

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

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

The tingling or stinging sensation is normal. If you are new to shaving, this can help you evaluate areas needing improvement for next time.

Let it dry for 1-2 minutes while you clean your razors. Then rinse your face with cold water.

Store it 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 helps you have a firmer grip on the razor if the handle is slippery or not anti-slip.

✅ If you haven’t tried alum block before, correct use is key. Many customers think it’s just like an aftershave — you put it on and done. But no. It needs technique and rhythm. Always rinse with cold water first to close pores and prepare the skin.

✔️ Then, apply the alum block gently — never with pressure. If rubbed hard, it might dry out the skin. The right use feels like "sliding," not rubbing. Leave it on for 1-2 minutes then rinse or let it dry naturally. Result? Clean, tight skin without redness.

⚠️ The most common mistake is storing it wet in the bathroom cabinet. Alum block is like a sponge — if kept wet, it dissolves. Personally, I leave it on a small towel on an open shelf to dry.

✨ Professional tip: When shaving a client traditionally, alum block also acts as an “error detector”. If an area stings intensely, that’s where I need to improve technique next time. Beginners at home can do the same.

✅ In short, alum block is not only treatment – it is a tool for education, protection, and quality. Make it part of your routine and you will understand why barbers swear by it.

Alum Block or Styptic Pencil?

Alum Block or Styptic Pencil?

If you are a wet shaver, it is very likely that you will get a few nicks from time to time.

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

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

Here are some key differences between the two:

• Alum block helps stop bleeding from small nicks, while styptic pencil is for deeper cuts and in corners where alum block can’t reach.
• Alum block has astringent and antiseptic properties and helps invigorate the face; most styptic pencils do not.
• Styptic pencil sometimes leaves a white powdery residue on your face after use, while alum block does not.
• It is quicker and easier to apply alum block on your face and neck compared to styptic pencil.

✅ From personal experience, I always keep both in the barbershop. Alum block is the daily “routine tool,” while styptic pencil is the “emergency unit” — you bring it out when you have a more serious cut or tricky spot like the corner of your mouth or upper lip.

⚠️ Styptic pencils contain silver nitrate or stronger astringents that act immediately but often leave a white trace. Many customers complain that after use, they look like “they put on powder.” That’s why for daily use, we recommend alum block ✨ — it’s more elegant and leaves no visible residue.

✔️ Also, you can apply alum all over your face as a general disinfectant and toner. Styptic pencil is for spot use only. If you shave daily, alum provides a feeling of cleanliness and freshness at the end of your routine.

✨ I personally use alum block as a “mirror” for my technique. If an area “stings,” that’s where I made a mistake. It helps me continually improve my shave—and that’s passed on to my clients.

✅ Conclusion: If you are just starting, get an alum block first. If you want something for your bag or for “emergency cuts,” then yes—styptic pencil has its place. At HairMaker.Gr, we have both for you to choose based on your style.

Here are some of the best alum blocks you can order from hairmaker.gr with distinct properties:

• ✔️ Proraso Alum Block Post Shave Stone – Classic Italian option emphasizing relief from cuts and burns after shaving. Ideal for face and neck use, delivering a professional grooming sensation.
• ✅ The Bluebeards Revenge Alum Block – Besides its basic action, it is highly effective against ingrown hairs and razor burns. If you shave daily, it will save you from many irritations.
• ✨ Alum Bloc Osma – The most compact and travel-friendly option, free from harmful chemicals. Made in France, perfect for those who want a 100% natural product for silky skin after shaving.

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Yiannis – HairMania Greece Owner & Founder of HairMaker.Gr

Barber and expert in men's & women's care. Owner of HairMania Greece and founder of HairMaker.Gr.

My team and I create articles based on real tests, customer experiences, and the knowledge we gain daily from the barbershop.

If you have questions or need help with care topics, send us an email at info@hairmaker.gr and we will be happy to assist you personally!

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