Even the Egyptians used alum for shaving 4000 years ago.

Alum is a natural stone and because of its haemostatic properties it can be used in the case of minor cuts. Just wet the block and place it over the cut. 

Alum block is also an antiseptic that can stop bleeding and can calm irritation of the skin. After shaving, wet the alum block and rub it over your skin. Potassium alum is the common alum of commerce.  Potassium in the alum block is a natural antiseptic.

Potassium alum also acts as astringent and closes the pores if used after shaving.

Alum blocks also functions as a deodorant. Alum works well on all types of skin.

Used as a pre-shave, it lifts facial hair and prepares for a close shave.

 Do not leave the alum block in the water as it gets dissolved easily.

In India alum blocks (called “phatkari”) are used to sterilize cuts and nicks.