I just got an alum block to try, for the first time ever. I like the feel of it, putting it on with cold water. I like the tight-skin feel I get when I've done it. But should I do this before or after applying aftershave? Or is it instead of aftershave?
Alum vs. aftershave
- Thread starter Shaving Tool
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Usually, it's used instead of aftershave (it does the same thing without the scent aspect). But, if you want some scent, use the aftershave first, then the alum.
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Ah, cool, thanks, Rich. Probably I'll just generally go with the alum, then, most of the time. But if I want a scent, then it sounds like it's totally OK to do both. 
Ah, cool, thanks, Rich. Probably I'll just generally go with the alum, then, most of the time. But if I want a scent, then it sounds like it's totally OK to do both.
You're welcome.
Totally OK to do both, just do it in the right order or the alum will clump up on your face and be unpleasant. Plus, with doing the AS first, you have extra water on your face to keep the alum wet.
Edit: also of note, alum is great to travel with as it's very multi-purpose. It can also be used as a deoderant, skin conditioner (great for oily skin & break outs), and hair "dressing"... the olde tyme barbers would use it on crew cuts and the like to get the hair to stand up nicely.
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To provide a counter-point (or pointer-count) to Rich -- when I use Alum, I use it immediately after a cold-water rinse of all the remaining lather; then I wait a minute (cleaning the brush, etc), rinse off the alum, and apply witch hazel/aftershave/balm.
I didn't know about the hair dressing, Rich -- that's neat (you should add that tidbit to the wiki page on Alum!)
To provide a point, counter-point..? Jesse, you ignorant....
(sorry, pal, it was too easy to let slide.) 
Hmmm, OK then. I'll research it a bit more and throw it in there.
edit: I have to add that I've tried it on my high-n-tight (-ish) and it does seem to add the extra "something".
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To provide a point, counter-point..? Jesse, you ignorant....
*zing!* I got served.
Neat! Alum serves a larger variety of purposes all the time.
Although they have overlapping applications, I mainly use alum to deal with any weepers and tiny cuts that may have arisen as well provide bracing. I use aftershave to condition the skin as well as provide so fragrance in addition to bracing.
+1. I use alum, let it dry, then witch hazel over that, followed by an A/S splash or balm.
I recently started using an alum block and after I rinse it off my face I've been putting a bit of Proraso Pre shave cream on to finish off. Although I once tried using the Proraso Liquid Cream Aftershave after rinsing off the alum block.
I imagine I'll keep using an alum block for "normal everyday use" but I'll still use aftershave (in place of an alum block) for special occasions or maybe when the weather changes. It's Winter here now.
I imagine I'll keep using an alum block for "normal everyday use" but I'll still use aftershave (in place of an alum block) for special occasions or maybe when the weather changes. It's Winter here now.
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My routine after rinsing the razor is...
rinse off my face with warm then cold water
apply alum block (optional)
dry alum block (if used)
rinse with cold water
pat dry
apply Thayer's (optional)
apply after shave
I use the block when I want to gauge irritation. I think I can better rate a new brand of blade when I use the block. I usually only apply the Thayer's when the block indicates irritation from the blade. Also, I use the block in lieu of a styptic pencil if I have a nick.
rinse off my face with warm then cold water
apply alum block (optional)
dry alum block (if used)
rinse with cold water
pat dry
apply Thayer's (optional)
apply after shave
I use the block when I want to gauge irritation. I think I can better rate a new brand of blade when I use the block. I usually only apply the Thayer's when the block indicates irritation from the blade. Also, I use the block in lieu of a styptic pencil if I have a nick.
I'm pretty sure that this is the proper use:
-rinse your face
-apply alum block
-rinse your face with cold water
Without the last step you get an itching on your face, at least me.
-rinse your face
-apply alum block
-rinse your face with cold water
Without the last step you get an itching on your face, at least me.
Yes. Whatever your procedure, you absolutely must rinse at some point after applying the alum. It is not meant to be left on your face like aftershaves and balms are.
B
buyandhold2018
I rub Alum on my face after a cold water rinse, then I pat my face dry and clean up my shaving station (takes 2-3 minutes). I then do another cold water rinse, pat dry and splash on some Witch Hazel. Sometimes I will add an AS splash or cream after the Witch Hazel.
I posted a thread on this subject.
Just give it a look!
Here is the link: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=143957
Yep, you have to rinse the alum off after it dries. If I don't, it leaves a flaky white residue on my face. I always apply it after a cold water rinse, let dry, rinse off, then witch hazel followed by AS or ASB.
Personally:
Warm rinse
Alum
(brush teeth)
cold rinse (or witch hazel)
ASB and / or AS - depending on skin or plans for the day
Warm rinse
Alum
(brush teeth)
cold rinse (or witch hazel)
ASB and / or AS - depending on skin or plans for the day
