An Alum Block Is the Old-School Shaving Product You’ve Been Missing. Here Are 8 of the Best.
Take a page from your dad (or granddad) and keep one on hand at all times.
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Nailing a good shave is all in the follow-through. Which is to say, making sure you're paying as much attention to your post-shave routine as the rest of it. And that means minimizing redness and irritation. That's where an alum block comes in: It has antiseptic properties that prevent irritation and infection. Plus, it's one of the cheapest ways to make sure your newly shaved skin stays clear.
An alum block is the kind of thing your grandfather probably used; it's just about as old-school as it gets. Simple, too. Just wet it with cold water and rub it over your face—and especially on nicks, cuts, and burgeoning razor burn—to calm everything down. Oh, and there's a bonus: It also works as deodorant in a pinch. (Those "crystal" ones you see next to the standard sticks and gels in the drugstore? Basically the same stuff.) Here are eight of the best out there right now.
A rounded stick makes application extra easy.
Or a "pen" with a lid. This one is great if you're ever shaving away from home.
If you're often on the go, consider getting a bigger block with its own carrying case so you can throw it in your toiletry bag, no problem.
Proraso is the ultimate old-school shave brand. Of course it makes an alum block that you, your dad, and your granddad could all enjoy.
There's something calming about having a go-to shave routine. Add this as the last step after your safety razor shave for clearer, happier skin.
Keep this on your bathroom sink for calming nicks and cuts.
Murdock, as a brand, is simple and rooted in the classics. Use this after every shave.
If The Art of Shaving's pen wasn't enough for you, the brand also makes a bigger block. You can trust it to get the job done every time.
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