How To Use An Alum Block

How to Use an Alum Block

Today on the Modern Man, we talk about the unsung timeless essential in every man’s wet shaving kit. What is an alum block, How do their astringent and antiseptic properties work so well as part of the aftershave process on minor nicks and shaving cuts, and why should they be on your shaving products wishlist?

Firstly, what is an Alum Block? An Alum Block is made from hydrated potassium sulfate, otherwise known as Natural Potassium Alum. Potassium Alum is a naturally occurring mineral that acts as an astringent when mixed with water and rubbed onto the skin. When we say astringent, it essentially means that it constricts blood vessels and tightens pores, so it’s no wonder Alum blocks have been used since ancient Egyptian times, as medicine, and then as a natural deodorant. This also was due to its antiseptic properties, which offer cleansing protection against disease-causing microorganisms. In fact, Alum crystal became a highly coveted contraband in the thirteenth century, with alum stone piracy rife across Europe - Today, in order to help the Modern Man with skincare, we learn from our more traditional forefathers.

Note: An alternative term you might have heard is Styptic Pencil: in reality, both of these products are made of the same substance we detail above, but the formal shape of the product determines whether it is a ‘block’ or ‘pencil’.

Alum Blocks are generally used after shaving, to soothe razor burn, small nicks, and unwanted razor bumps that are unfortunately just as much part of the shaving routine as the razor blades themselves. Sensitive Skin especially will be prone to small cuts, sometimes even with an abundance of shaving cream and high-quality shaving brushes.

How do you use an Alum Block?

As mentioned before, Alum Blocks are used in the aftershave process, but whether you use safety razors, straight razor single or doubled edges, or even shavers, they are extremely beneficial for anyone experiencing irritation, razor burn, or small nicks.

Firstly, rinse off all shaving cream or shaving soap with cold water, which will close sensitive skin pores and prepare the Alum block to gently glide across the face.

Then, wet the Alum Block with more cold water, and rub it gently across the areas you have shaved.

Where you have a cut, apply the block with a small amount of pressure, and release. Then, for twenty seconds, or until the bleeding stops, allow the natural Potassium Alum’s astringent properties and antiseptic properties to tighten the pores and cleanse the skin. This might sting a little, so don’t apply too much pressure, and perhaps only use once a week if you have particularly sensitive skin.

Now, rinse the residue off with cold water, and The Modern Man would recommend you wait a minute or two before applying aftershave balm or moisturisers, but this is only really for the prevention of irritating sensitive skin.

Finally, after using the Alum Block, dry it properly with a towel and make sure it is completely dry before storing it in a dry place. Otherwise, it will dissolve and lose substance very quickly.