Recenlty I've found myself going back to using an Alum block; And if feels like the first time. I returned to wet shaving about four or five years ago from electric. When I started out using a single edge. the block gave me some useful post shave feedback, but I found that as my technique got better, I had less of a 'need' for that and I found it to be drying to my somewhat sensitive skin. I am chagrined to say that I only found out recently that proper use is to run the block under cold water and pass it around my face for no more than 10 seconds, then quickly rinse well with cold water. The antiseptic property and closing the pores works well without drying the skin. I rarely use after shaves with alchohol, so after patting dry, I use some kind of balm. Almost every day back using the block. Anyone else use it regularly?
Returning to Alum (The right way)
- Thread starter sternej
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I am new to wet shaving, and thanks to this forum, I discovered the alum block. No shave is done without it!
I'll try that cold water trick, for me it's harsh, so I use it only for nicks.
I use it every morning as deodorant, best thing ever
I use it every morning as deodorant, best thing ever
I use mine regularly , my technique is cold water rinse with the alum ran under cold water , I think this is a great way to end the shave. I’ll let the alum dry and I’ll typically jump back in the shower to rinse off before applying any sort of aftershave.
Yup, use it after every shave. I use the crystal brand. I also use the crystal liquid form for deodorant, stopped using the solid as I kept dropping them. I know I’m going to drop this one too 
Every day for me. After my last pass I rinse with cold water, pass the alum block under the cold water, and rub over my face. Almost immediately I rinse the alum off with cold water. Then I apply aftershave and balm.
Most people don't know that Foreigner's first draft of "Feels Like the First Time" was called "If Feels Like the First Time".
I use the Alum bloc once and awhile. I don't need to be reminded that my technique sucks...
Seriously though, I find that the alum block tends to bring the red out on my neck. I don't get that when I use witch hazel. No sting either. I do use alum when I get a nick or a weeper though.
Seriously though, I find that the alum block tends to bring the red out on my neck. I don't get that when I use witch hazel. No sting either. I do use alum when I get a nick or a weeper though.
I tend to use with hazel more than alum, but I use it if I think I may have irritated my face.
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WH, milder for sure.
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