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I started using an alum block with my 1st shave "wet shave". I found that the feed back sting was very helpful and also I like the way it makes my face feel when I use it as part of my post shave routine.
Now that I'm learning to use a straight razor I'm finding the feed back to be useful again.
For many years I only used it on a weeper and nothing else. For the last month or so I've been using it all over my face, and also as a deodorant. Today I skipped using it on my face and only as a deodorant. I'm testing to see if it was causing some irritation on my neck.
I have always kept a styptic pencil around. It's useful for nicks, cuts, and weepers. Also, canker sores (try it). I had never heard of alum blocks until I tripped down this rabbit hole. I finally ordered one and now I use it after every shave as a feed back tool. I enjoy the way it tightens my skin prior to aftershave and lotion application.
I usually do a swift swipe to the pits, too. I don't like to put on deodorant directly after a shower. Applying alum serves the dual purposes of maintaining dry pits AND a back up in case I forget to put on deodorant later that night.
Tried it for shaving and I didn't like how it felt on my skin. Used it for deodorant for about two weeks. It seemed to do a good job at the anti-smelly stuff but I developed a heat rash. I discontinued use immediately.
I have been using alum post shave for most of this year. I think it is helpful in reducing excessively oily face AND helps to reduce neck irritation. I also use a witch hazel mixture with added alcohol, menthol AND a bit of alum added. I enjoy the routine.
I had a hippie rock (deodorant) that my mom gave me. I didn't use it much because it felt weird and didn't do much to keep me dry. I like not sweating as much as I like not stinking. I recently dropped my 20yr old hippie rock and it shattered into a number of sharp shards, now I use the pieces for added grip as needed.