Picked up an Osma Alum Block and man what a difference a decent alum block actually makes. I've been using the omega travel alum stick which is awful. The case shattered and disintegrated for no reason and the stick itself actually disolved out of the tube holder anyways so it just became a rough block. From my understanding, the omega alum stick is made by compressing alum powder or crystals into the stick form but the osma block is made by cutting a piece from a larger block and sanding it down into size. Its literally like rubbing smooth glass across my face. I also find that I don't get any leftover alum crystals on my face. Much easier to apply and will probably last a lot longer. Its much heavier and more solid than the omega stick. I typically don't use alum, but I've been finding my skin needs some extra astringing for the past few months. You guys should've told me that there are different quality alum products! Especially considering the omega and the osma block are priced the same.