Alum stone » Why the Shaving Stone is so popular ✓

Even with plenty of practice in the art of traditional shaving with the safety razor, small cuts are not 100% avoidable. So you don't have to reach for a plaster or wait for the bleeding to stop, I recommend using an alum stone or stick.

The alum stone is often also called a blood clotting stick, which anticipates its function in this context: After use, minor cuts stop bleeding within a few seconds and you simultaneously care for the wound. But what exactly is an alum stone, what other benefits does it bring, and how do I use it most effectively after shaving?

If you're unsure whether you're using the right razor, just answer the following questions and we'll give you a product recommendation that suits you:

All-Purpose Alum Stone: From Blood Clotter to Pimple Fighter

So what exactly is an alum stone? In short, an alum stone is made of alum, which in turn is an aluminum salt.

A more complex answer is given by Wikipedia: "Alum [...] originally referred just to hydrated potassium aluminum sulfate [...]. Meanwhile, the term is sometimes used for the corresponding ammonium aluminum salt, while 'alums' refers to all sulfate double compounds of similar chemical constitution."¹ This explanation may reveal more to chemists among us.

Like other salts, alum dissolves in water and is used in several industries. So it's not only versatile in form but also in application area. In addition to its already mentioned ability to stop bleeding, alum is

• used in tanning,
• in gardening,
• and in the food industry as a stabilizer.

In cosmetics, alum stones are often used as a deodorant. They are also a proven remedy in the fight against pimples. Alum is also used to grow crystals – perhaps you still have an old chemistry kit at home and can take a closer look at the "ingredient list"?

The Alum Stone and Traditional Shaving in Focus

The fact that alum stones are increasingly used in the shaving sector has a good reason. Alum has a strong astringent effect. This means that alum is a substance that alters the proteins on the skin, thereby creating a superficial layer.²

For minor cuts that occur during traditional shaving on the face or in the intimate area, using an alum stone or stick causes the wound to close quickly and the bleeding to stop. In addition to the explained astringent effect, alum is also antiseptic and antibacterial. In other words, it disinfects the wound. A true miracle cure.

Alum Stone as a Blood Clotter

If you use your alum stone as a blood clotter, moisten it with water before use and then let it glide over the cut without applying much pressure.

But when is the best time during traditional shaving to use the alum stone? The alum stone is most effective when you wash your face after shaving with cold water. Apply your aftershave product and then use the alum stone.

Expert Tip: The alum stone can also be used as an aftershave. To do this, after washing, let the moistened alum stone or stick glide over the shaved areas and leave it on briefly.

Afterward, wash your face again with cold water. If you have sensitive skin, follow up with a moisturizer.

FAQ

Is an alum stone dangerous?

No! The Störtebekker alum stone is free from additives, making it safe to use. However, keep it away from children and pets.

Does an alum stone help with acne?

Alum is said to have antibacterial properties. There are reports from acne sufferers suggesting a positive effect. If in doubt, discuss with your doctor whether alum is actually helpful.

Conclusion

Since even pros in traditional shaving occasionally get minor cuts, the alum stone should be part of your high-quality shaving accessories. Besides its blood clotting effect, it offers additional benefits and is versatile, for example as a deodorant or pimple fighter. It brings great value and is definitely worth the purchase. Have you seen our Störtebekker shaving soaps? You can buy the shaving soaps here!

Want more? Of course, because we want to share our knowledge with you

• Safety Razor vs. Straight Razor
• The Razor Blade
• How often to change razor blades?

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/astringent