For a couple of years now I always responded to threads about alum blocks by saying I don't use it post shave. I just did not see any benefit. Rather than just saying it was useless I decided to do a short trial of using alum block post shave every day for a month. I am now into week 2 and I have to say I am pleasantly surprised at how my face feels post-shave using an alum block. One difference I notice is I often get tiny micro weepers on my throat area (tough spot for me to get a close shave...especially with a SR) and I notice the astringent property of the alum seems to promote rapid healing...more than just Witch Hazel alone. I am wondering if other alum-naysayers would be interested in doing a short trial using an alum block post shave and sharing your thoughts? (Alum block lovers need not apply! ..though your thoughts are always welcome!)
Big fan, and recommend to all new converts. My first Alum block was started on 1 October 2015, and gave out a week ago, fwiw.
Found just the opposite. Used to use an alum block after my str8 shaves and couldn't figure out why my face had a slight burning sensation and was a bit red after the shave. Thought it was my technique. Stopped the alum, afore mentioned issues stopped.
I converted to the Alum Brotherhood awhile back. I used feel the same way you did, but found I enjoy the way my face feels after using it.
I go through stages when it comes to Alum usage, my first two years I used it each time. I tested rinsing it off or leaving it on. I look forward to seeing this topic grow with different input from members.
Besides the technique feedback telling me where I scraped skin rather than reduced beard, I like the skin tightening feel. Witch hazel doesn't give the same effect, though I do like an alcohol based AS burn. I'm using an alum block that's lost it's label, but I think it's a Gentleman Jon's brand. Anyone using the push-up stick type? Razorock sells them, and there are antiperspirant sticks, too.
I used to use it often. Stopped, then picked it up again after I started using my 2011 R41; as a gauge of my shave. Oh baby did it gauge! Once I had the technique nailed down; took a while, I too put down the alum.
I've tried alum a few times but I tended to have some redness and irritation after using it as Steve @swarden43 described above. Witch hazel works better for me.
PLAla & Swarden, may I hazard a guess that both of you gentlemen have Irish heritage? From what I've pieced together from various online & offline conversations I've had on alum, those (like me) with Irish heritage seem to have a skin sensitivity to alum and it has the opposite effect as advertised. Go figure!
I'm a daily user. I always have an extra bar or two on hand since I am destine to drop it before it's time. I have yet to finish a whole bar. I guess I need to get a grip.
I didn't save it, but saw a photo of an alum block with a 1/2" wide rubberband (15mm elastic for our UK friends) installed for grip.
I use alum to gage my shave. I find it helps if I have a harsh shave. I also use on my finger tips to help stretch my skin.
