Alum Blocks

I know alum blocks are normally sold as a post shave product. I love them. However, I don't use them as a post shave treatment. They make the best underarm deodorant I have ever used. It kills the bacteria that causes odor, but doesn't stop the body from perspiring. Just curious if anyone else uses alum blocks as an underarm deodorant?

I do in summer, but use a separate block for that

I use Osma block on my face and Razorock under my arms. The Razorock most resembles the shape of an underarm deodorant.

I regularly use the same alum as @Barrylu described. However, I don't use the RazoRock alum stick, or any alum, as a deodorant. Instead, I keep it on the counter during my shave so that I can touch the stick if my fingers holding the razor start to get slippery. Also, I really enjoy using the Osma alum block and a cold water rinse on my face after the shave, whether or not the shave went smoothly.

I did try it, but it didn't work as well as my normal antiperspirant deodorant. I'm sure I could use it in a pinch, but I'm happy with the Right Guard.

PUse Alum as a deodorant only, works really well.

There are two types of alum: for the face potassium alum; for the underarms (not the face) the ammonium alum, but I wouldn't use the latter for either.

Here's an older thread I started on the subject:

http://shavenook.com/showthread.php?tid=18786

(10-16-2016, 10:29 PM)Shaun Wrote: There are two types of alum: for the face potassium alum; for the underarms (not the face) the ammonium alum, but I wouldn't use the latter for either.

Here's an older thread I started on the subject:

http://shavenook.com/showthread.php?tid=18786

I posted in that thread linked to. I have now been using the ammonium based alum for 3+ years without problems. That said the milder potassium based alum might suit more people especially if you have sensitive skin. I will say that I have always had oily skin and suffered from pimples all my life. After using alum post shave the pimples are no longer a problem. Wish I had of discovered that before turning 60. 

I have always used the OSMA blocks as the cost was like $8 for 2 big blocks. The only bad part to them is when they slip out of the hand and shatter! Right now I am using an RR one that has a plastic handle. So far so good; no whoopsie yet! Another thing alum works great for is canker sores. Of course, you might want to use a different block; or not.

I used alum as a deodorant in the past and it worked very well, even in Miami's hot, humid weather.

Just purchased a large block off Ebay yesterday. Almost a 4 oz block for $5.49 free shipping. Hope it fits in my case.

I use it on my feet. No more smelly sneakers.

Got this in mail recently and in very tiny lettering, "Made in China." No description given on e-Bay as to which type of alum.

Absolutely! I bought "The Crystal" stick. Much better to apply than a block as it's in stick form and has a container for travel, although I still have an Omega that I actually use for travel because it's compact. I've used the blocks from the Indian markets, and they work just fine, albeit the texture is rough. At under a buck apiece they make more financial sense than the branded Crystal or Omega, but the format is just much more convenient.

My favorite thing about them is no more crispy armpits in my shirts! WOOHOO!!! =P

I do, everyday. They lasts a really long time and very inexpensive.

I used to hate the way deodorants ruin some of my shirts. No problems like that anymore! woot!

Got my Razorock Alum block w/case from Italian Barber.

I have a block of alum that I bought at The Art of Shaving. I have never used it for deodorant. However, I do use it as part of my post shave routine to stop the bleeding of nicks.
I also like the "stinging" that is felt as I rub it on my face.

I use potassium alum for an aftershave, and, another, for deodorant.  Osma, for aftershave, and, Crystal, for deodorant.

I use them after the shave. I leave on the alum whole I wash my brush. Then I rinse it. The longer I keep it on, the better it does it's work.

(06-05-2017, 02:14 AM)Quando Wrote: I use potassium alum for an aftershave, and, another, for deodorant.  Osma, for aftershave, and, Crystal, for deodorant.

I used Crystal Rock Deodorant, for years, before it started to leave a rash.  I recently, in the past two weeks, switched to Speed Stick Musk, in combination with Crystal Rock Deodorant Body Spray, for my chest, elbows, and, knees.  I think, I may start using it, on my feet, as well.