I bought a a deoderant block from a health food store that listed is as having Alum and Mineral Spirits. Is this the same thing as the alum block used to stop nicks and irritation? The directions say to wet it and rub it on, I would assume that this is how you use an alum block too?
Is this Alum Block
- Thread starter volleykinginnc
- Start date
It sounds like you purchase alum but the minerals spirits component is what I'm a little bit leery on, as it is a solvent. Generally, mineral spirits are used as degreasers or as paint thinners, which is functionality I'm not looking for in an aftershave. You need alum specifically designed for the face, as underarm alum is designed to deal with odour and human secretions (e.g. perspiration).
Most deodorant crystals are Ammonium Alum, and most shaving blocks are Potassium Alum. Both are Alum and you can use either on your face,( although Ammonium Alum can be a bit harsh for some folk) but yours is not straight Alum, so I would say its unsuitable for your face
I have found this alum to be fantastic on my face.
http://www.naturallyfreshdeodorantcrystal.com/
It is the desired potash alum and it also has Aloe Vera & Chamomile which is very soothing and moisturizing to the face.
I have the crystal stick and the roll on. The roll on is really cool to use. It has the same stuff but is easier to apply. twist off the cap, roll the ball on my face and neck, and then rinse off a few minutes later. doesn't sting at all like most sticks.
http://www.naturallyfreshdeodorantcrystal.com/
It is the desired potash alum and it also has Aloe Vera & Chamomile which is very soothing and moisturizing to the face.
I have the crystal stick and the roll on. The roll on is really cool to use. It has the same stuff but is easier to apply. twist off the cap, roll the ball on my face and neck, and then rinse off a few minutes later. doesn't sting at all like most sticks.
Check to see if that was "mineral salt" instead of "mineral spirits". Alum sometimes referred to as a mineral salt or mineral crystal.
B
buyandhold2018
I've only ever seen Ammonium alum blended with aloe and other things... you sure it's pure potassium alum?
My loving wife is the manager of a health & natural herb store which carries it. She brings it home for me. It says "Potash" (potassium alum) right on the bottle.
Great site, thanks for posting. 
I'm not to sure what Alum is or Alum block? But I'm with D.E Shaver on the mineral spirits. It's a solvent, we use it to clean heavy machinery parts caked with desiel,dirt,oil and what ever else. It cleans great for parts and my tools. But as for my face, I'll leave that to witch hazel or nivea shaving balm. Lol. I wish you look, cause that stuff turns my skin white, cause it takes all the oil out. But I'm curious to see how !!!
Thanks for your Time !!
Marcus L.
You're welcome!
- Thread starter
- #12
Sorry guys it's mineral salts not spirits. Anyway, I think this is the same stuff as the alum block as I tried it the last two shaves and no ill effects but definitely closed up my skin, to the point that when I rubbed it it literally squeeked.
