Alum Blocks and Styptic Pencils

Alum Blocks & Styptic Pencils

An alum block, other wise known as an alum stone or styptic pencil, is the perfect post shave accessory. Traditionally, an alum block is a crystal-like stone made from potassium alum that has been used in shaving for a very long time (since the Egyptians to be exact). An alum block or styptic pencil are astringents that are used to stop bleeding. Shaving cuts are usually only minor cuts or small nicks, but they can sting, often bleeding for a while. This shaving essential stops bleeding and works wonders on your post-shave skin.

Not only does natural alum contain astringent properties and stops bleeding, it also reduces razor burn, razor bumps, redness and pretty much any unwanted byproduct of shaving. A styptic pencil is made of potassium alum, the same as an alum block, only it comes in a more concentrated cylindrical shape, similar to a lipstick. It is designed to treat a more focused area, as opposed to a block you roll on or across your skin with a wider surface area. Both alum blocks and styptic pencils can also be used to treat insect bites.

Alum blocks and Styptic pencils are suitable for all skin types, but occasionally can lead to sensitive skin feeling dry. To combat this, we at The Modern Man would recommend checking out our other shaving products and skincare must-haves to ensure that you retain any nutrients that shaving may take away. For those with sensitive skin, splash cold water on your face after using - this will help to close your pores and reduce the "tight" feeling on your post-shave face.

At The Modern Man, we have made upgrading your shaving kit very easy. Alum Blocks, styptic pencils, and more are available from premium shaving brands such as Osma Block, Edwin Jagger, Antiga Barbearia De Bairro, and Pacific Shaving Company. With one of these in your collection, you can take your shaving game to the next level.

Some of our bestselling alum block/styptic pencil products include:

MUHLE AL1 Natural Alum Block 100g - Heal and soothe your skin with this MUHLE alum block. Great for calming your post-shave skin, prevents infection by helping to seal any small cuts caused by shaving.

Edwin Jagger Alum Styptic Pencil 12g - Dab Edwin Jagger's Styptic Pencil on the affected areas for quick and easy pain relief from shaving cuts.

Osma Alum Block 75g - Few items are more evocative of such old flair and expertise than the world-renowned Osma Alum Block. A classic shaving accessory, this alum block provides a balm like film over the shaving nicks, putting a halt to bleeding and locking in moisture long after your shave.

Check out our other shave products here at The Modern Man and complete your shaving set and experience. We have a wide selection of safety razors, wet shaving accessories, aftershaves, shaving brushes, shaving creams and lotions, there's something here for every shaver.