I started using Alum almost immediately after returning to classic shaving. Instead of purchasing a brand marketed to the shaving community, I purchased the Nautrally Fresh Deodorant Crystal. It is widely available at most of the large chain drug stores as well as many grocery stores for under $3.00 Like everyone else I apply after a cold water rinse, allow to sit on face for about a minute, do another cold water rinse, then apply aftershave. It is a part of my routine that I would not do without.
I've been using Alum for shaving and as a deodorant for many years.I discovered Monster Block Alum near the end of last year.Out of all the various Alums I've used this seems to be the purist,at least I think so.It looks just like a ice cube and after a few uses it becomes clearer.You've all prolly seen my shave routine on the shave of the day forums.Recently I've added witch hazel to the routine after I've let the the alum do it's thing for a few minutes while I do policing chores.When I feel my face tightning up I do a cold water rinse then add the WH.I let the WH marinate for a few minutes then add my splash usually mixed with 444. If I use a balm or milk I wait 20 minutes to apply. I'm not a chemist but I use Thai Crystal for my underarms,it's a alum,but my armpits dont tighten up,I feel no need to rinse the pits but I stay odor free all day with no discomfort.I dont rinse like I need to do with my face and my head as I headshave as well. All I know is I very rarely get a rash on my face or my armpits,as I used to without using alum.
