Alum block, yes? no?

[cb91710]

I tried it with no stinging at all, but it made my face red and splotchy. I liked the feel of it, but I don't think my skin liked it.

Seems there are at least two groups ... those whose skin benefits from the use of alum, and those who get irritation from alum.

Your opinion on the use of alum probably depends strongly on which group you belong to

It also depends if one uses ammonium alum or potassium alum. It also depends if applied with hot water or cold. It also depends if you leave it on or rinse it.
In my limited experience that is.

I get splotching if I do not rinse.

 

[Lakebound]

Yes. For using on my fingertips only while stretching the skin for straight razor shaving. I don't rub it on my face any longer unless I get a nick or a small cut.

Frank

 

[well_nuc]

When my soap or cream doesn't provide the protection I had hoped for (my fault when this happens with lather too airy), I bring out the alum block and after the shave it goes over my whole face after a cool rinse. After a minute or so I rinse it off and apply the AS or balm.

Even though it stings, I feel like my face heals up faster.