Witch Hazel vs Alum

[Jimmy Gee]

Is there a difference in using witch hazel versus an alum block? Do both accomplish the same thing? How many B&B'rs use both?

One more question: Why is it so important to close the pores?

[Stauff]

I use both in one product: the incredible Speick AS splash. Very nice and affordable aftershave. Check out this review: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=6400

[htownmmm]

I use them both:

1. alum block applied to wet face after cold water rinse

2. witch hazel to remove alum block residue( when I don't remove the alum block residue and then apply asb, it turns into a gummy mess)


Marty

[dszpiro]

when I don't remove the alum block residue and then apply asb, it turns into a gummy mess

I have found exactly the same thing. This had made me wonder about the purpose / benefit of using alum: if I rinse it off a few minutes after its application, why bother? :confused:

Thanks,

[Dinder1]

I like the Speick w/alum as well, but if you want a product without alcohol, Earthscience makes a aloe/glycerine based splash that contains alum as well.
Earthscience after shave soother.
Cheers, DJ.

[Larry C in Texas]

I use alum block after my cold water rinse (which I let dry for a minute or so and then dab off the excess with a damp washcloth), followed by spritzing on the witch hazel, followed by my ASB. I get no gummy mess or anything like that. The alum stops the irritation, the witch hazel soothes, and the ASB completes moisturizing and "de-irritation".

Maybe overkill, but it works for me.

YMMV.

[Dennis]

I have found exactly the same thing. This had made me wonder about the purpose / benefit of using alum: if I rinse it off a few minutes after its application, why bother? :confused:

Thanks,

I definitely notice a difference when I do and don't use alum. I find the alum has "done its thing" by the time it dries making little difference if I leave it on or wash it off in that regard. If I don't wash it off, however, it seems to mess with the balm by breaking it or at least making it feel different and not as moisturizing. The alum bar I use (classicshaving) does not leave a white film behind as others have reported. When I use the alum, I find my face feels smoother and more tone than when I don't - I think that is the tightening/closing the pores that people are talking about.

Dennis

[rikrdo]

I use both in one product: the incredible Speick AS splash. Very nice and affordable aftershave. Check out this review: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=6400


Hey Frederik..

Speick needs to hire you as their official B&B spokesman ! :wink:
Ive gotta get me some o' dis.

[Stauff]

Hey Frederik..

Speick needs to hire you as their official B&B spokesman ! :wink:
Ive gotta get me some o' dis.

Good idea! Still waiting for that custom title, mods... :wink:

[BlackLabelBrewer]

I have only been using the alum bar for a week or so. Does anyone have any experience in relation to the alum bar and acne? I'm lucky enough to be realatively acne-free, but I wonder if anyone has noticed any effects one way or the other?

[Scotto]

I use both in one product: the incredible Speick AS splash. Very nice and affordable aftershave. Check out this review: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=6400
I just ordered some Speick based on your raving reviews. It better be good. :tongue_sm

[rikrdo]

I'd better get a commission..:rolleyes:

[Stauff]

I just ordered some Speick based on your raving reviews. It better be good. :tongue_sm

Can't wait to hear how you rate it.