Alum Blocks

Рет қаралды 42,943

5 жыл бұрын

If you're not using an alum block in your post shave routine, give it a look. Here are a few I'm currently using.
Osma manufacturing process: • Laboratoires osma fa...
Osma Alum Block 2.65 Ounces - Pack of 2: amzn.to/2EZJ60e
Parker Safety Razor's Large Alum Block with Travel Case: amzn.to/2NRRgdJ
Omega Potassium Alum Stick: amzn.to/2NTR2TB
RazoRock Alum Block with Plastic Travel Case: amzn.to/2O09wC5
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Other Traditional Wet Shaving item to consider:
Vikings Blade Chieftain Razor: amzn.to/2khl0V4
VIKINGS BLADE The Godfather Safety Razor : amzn.to/2ksTgNR
VIKINGS BLADE The Vulcan Safety Razor + 5 Swedish Platinum Super Blades + Carry Case: amzn.to/2FrfUOa
VIKINGS BLADE Swedish Steel Replacement Razor Blades, 50 Count: amzn.to/2vVugo7
Edwin Jagger DE89Lbl Lined Detail Chrome Plated Double Edge Safety Razor: amzn.to/2lxBI31
Merkur HD 34C Safety Razor: amzn.to/2m2ateD
Perfecto Badger Shaving Brush: amzn.to/2kNX48z
The Art of Shaving Pure Badger Brush: amzn.to/2kM9dik
VIKINGS BLADE Luxury Badger Brush - Dark Stallion: amzn.to/2kO6e53
RazoRock Plissoft IVORY 22 Synthetic Shaving Brush: amzn.to/2jPsxHa
VIKINGS BLADE Luxury Badger Brush - White Knight Synthetic: amzn.to/2jowhn2
Vikings blade Admiral Razor and Brush Stand - amzn.to/2nlbujh
Perfecto Deluxe Chrome Razor and Brush Stand: amzn.to/2m1Z3Yi
Proraso Shaving Soap in a Bowl: amzn.to/2sB5rbJ
Taylor of Old Bond Street Eton College Shaving Cream: amzn.to/2u3WFri
Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood shaving Cream: amzn.to/2FJAgVB
The Art of Shaving TAOS Soap with Bowl, Sandalwood: amzn.to/2uWp6Uo
Col. Conk World's Famous Shaving Soap, Lime -- 3 Pack: amzn.to/2HoFenK
VIKINGS BLADE Luxury Shaving Cream, Traditional Swedish Heritage, Sandalwood & Western Red Cedar: amzn.to/2wxdfNk
VIKINGS BLADE Black Ocean Luxury Shaving Cream: amzn.to/2lLwKgb
Bloc Osma Alum Block, 2.65 Ounce: amzn.to/2LtSxGi
Osma Alum Block 2.65 Ounces - Pack of 2: amzn.to/2IQkSZG
Bloc Osma Alum Stone 75g Block 3 Pack: amzn.to/2KWfwc1
Van Der Hagen Boar Shaving Brush as part of the Men’s Luxury Shave Set: amzn.to/2jx90u4 (comes with Brush, Mug, Soap and stand)
Skin Bracer After Shave Lotion, Original - 5 Oz: amzn.to/2pOyNDU
Aqua Velva Ice Blue Size 3.5z Aqua Velva Ice Blue After Shave: amzn.to/2RNYZv9 (I got 7 ounces for the about the same price at a local big box store. It may have been on sale at the time I purchased. Regular price is under ten bucks!:) www.walmart.com/ip/AQUA-VELVA...)
Pinaud Clubman after shave lotion 6 fl oz: amzn.to/2ROS7NV
Old Spice Classic After Shave 6.37 Oz: amzn.to/2RLJ3tr
Brut After Shave Original Fragnance, 5 Ounce: amzn.to/2pUxGTa
Stetson Original Aftershave, 3.4 Fluid Ounce: amzn.to/2CHD1Wl

Пікірлер: 116

@bendirval3612 4 жыл бұрын

That Osma is made from a solid block of alum--good stuff. Some other bricks are made of shavings that have been compressed. The latter can fall apart if they get (and stay) wet.

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

Agree!:) Thank you very much, Bendirval!:)

@TNKeith 2 жыл бұрын

Started shaving my head fee months ago and alum block to the kit. Also adding shave secret oil as well after your review video. Travel for a living and adventure full time. These will definitely be nice for travel. Thanks for the great videos!

@mikeh9701 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark- Good run-down on alum blocks for us; thank you! I hope the weekend is going well and all the best!

@MarkSzorady 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Mike.:) Appreciated!:) Weather is finally warming up here in NE Ohio.:)

@davidbetts9344 10 күн бұрын

I use Parker. I wet my face and the block, rub on, let sit for 30 seconds, rinse and dry my face, and then use an after shave. Thanks for discussing alternate processes, I will do some experimenting.

@Lechugasnack Жыл бұрын

Just picked up an Alum Block from Amazon, Gentleman John brand. I also do the dry block over a wet face, only because my face is already wet after I'm finished shaving. Great video. Thanks for all the information.

@airdbreck 5 жыл бұрын

Love Alum block when I get too close or bitten also like syptic pencils for larger nicks Prefer the smaller blocks Usually pay around 6AUD Good video

@bretarmstrong6303 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for explaining what it actually is and what it does. I just bought a variety pack of DE blades, and an alum block came with it, and I had no idea if it was a shave bar or an after shave thing, and I was reading about wet shaving for awhile, but I didn't see much on this, so thank you!

@MarkSzorady Жыл бұрын

My pleasure. sounds like you got a nice deal! Alum block with blades. Really nice.

@albertcastro409 4 жыл бұрын

Thank You. For the information you always put out there. I will order one and try it out. Thanks 👍🏻👍🏻

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

My pleasue. give it a try. Two ways to use. Method 1: Apply, wait 20 to 30 seconds, then rinse. Method 2: Apply and let it dry on the face. then apply after shave splash or balm. I use method 2. Some folks like to rinse and this helps to keep the skin from drying too much. At times, I do rinse, though.:) Mostly, I apply, wait to dry on face, then finish up with splash or balm.:)

@zachariahmarquez5593 4 ай бұрын

finally know how these work, thanks Mark!

@timwittkopp8031 3 жыл бұрын

Hey Mark, I got my first alum block today from PAA. I can’t believe I waited this long to get me one. Also came with a new after shave yet to be released called Diver Down. It smells fantastic. I’ll never shave without alum block again.

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

Tim, excellent to hear!:) I use the alum block after every shave. It helped my shave immeasurably.:) So glad it's working for you!:) Enjoy!:)

@davidlloyd7109 3 жыл бұрын

Great and very informative I’ve just made the switch to safety razor shaving trying to get use to it a real learning curve

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, David.:) Osma alum blocks are very good.:) I like that they are cut and machined from a larger alum block. However, PAA has an alum block with a dry dock and no slip grip that has really grown on me.:) I've used it every day and it's held up wonderfully well.:) It's probably one of the better deals on alum blocks. Affiliate Links Alum Block Dry Dock System | with or without 3.65 Oz Alum Block [103 Grams]: bit.ly/3iYxNqS Phoenix Shaving No Slip Grip Alum Block | 3.65 Oz [103 Grams] | W/ Rubber Grip Band & Recyclable Plastic Travel Case!: bit.ly/3rUkZFW

@rothgartheviking858 Жыл бұрын

Dude i have really enjoyed your vids. Subscribed.

@michaelzoran 4 жыл бұрын

Very informative video. Thank you for explaining what an Alum Block is. I wasn't sure what it was when I saw it on Amazon. I actually thought it might be a bar of soap of some kind. But, it looks like it is sort of just something that is designed to close the pores of your skin with the colder temperature from the water.

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

My Pleasure, Michael.:) And your assessment is correct.:) Alum blocks have been around for quite some time. They also have antiseptic qualities.:) Some great information at The Executive Shaving Company: www.executive-shaving.co.uk/alum-block-a-guide-on-how-and-why-to-use If you purchase from them, use the code MARK5. (new affiliate to my channel).

@michaelzoran 4 жыл бұрын

SUGGESTION: Please consider making a video about how to properly put on that Aqua Velva Aftershave without spilling half the bottle every time. I swear the Aqua Velva Aftershave bottle is the same as those new gas tanks the way they spill every time.

@terragthegreat175 3 жыл бұрын

Gotta use your finger like a valve. Put your finger over the top before you tip it over and after you've got as much as you want.

@Juraberg 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark. Interesting video, comparing different alum blocks. 💈👍 I have always used alum after wet shaving. It is a good, all natural product. Like you, I never rinse it off. Why apply something and rinse it off a few seconds later? I use separate alum blocks for my armpits after a shower. Works a treat! Organic and best (unscented) deodorant ever! By the way, OSMA is based in France and is believed to be the only remaining alum manufacturer in Europe. Another interesting point: There are differences in quality of alum blocks: the closer the alum looks like black ice (transparent/translucent, cut out of a big block, not pressed) the better its quality. The more the alum looks like white ice (compact snow, milky), the lower its quality. The good quality ones are smoother on your face and last longer. OSMA is one of the best qualities in my opinion.

@MarkSzorady 5 жыл бұрын

Patrick, thank you very much for the informative comments about alum blocks!:) I've long suspected that there are manufacturing/quality differences between osma and others. I contacted Osma via email and they very kindly responded with information regarding their manufacturing process. The video is at: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/ibSUobKbvZfFoI0.html I haven't contacted other alum block sellers/manufacturers, so I'm unsure of how they make their product. But, I agree, Osma is top shelf!:) I'm not sure if anyone else manufactures a black ice (thanks for this term/description) alum block product.

@mrcarlo1966 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

My pleasure.:)

@MontOneBrno 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Mark, thank you for the video. I can see you have tried quite a few brands of the blocks. Would you tell there is a difference in function between the brands/ price categories? That for example a more expensive block stops bleeding faster and is more anti-bacterial than a cheaper one. Or do they function all the same and the difference is only in the look/size/box? I'm talking specifically about the blocks, not the sticks or other products. Thanks a lot, Jan

@achimkohlhage1328 5 жыл бұрын

Use OSMA, but found some casted blocks (Bullgoose, if I remember right) for US$1/block, double the size of OSMA. Sure the surface n edges not as neat, but after use n some water its fine. Cast obviously not as long lasting as pure block, but after daily use, my 1st block still half after 2 months. What can one say for US$1, in the end its alum. Cheers fm the Lion City.

@quirose8197 4 жыл бұрын

I use an alum block by Proraso after every shave. Works great

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

Hi, quirose. I'll give those a look.:) Thanks!:)

@Manu-ny1we Жыл бұрын

Thank you sir

@vergitube 3 жыл бұрын

I used alum block first time today. My aftershave balm was stinging a little, but using alum block i had no stinging. My skin is smoother

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

Hi, vergitube. Great to hear!

@krissanderson5004 4 жыл бұрын

I use the Omega travel block, even though I'm not traveling. I heard you shouldn't leave the blocks in water. With the Omega I can just leave it on it's own built in stand to dry.

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

Hi, Kriss Anderson. Yes, thoroughly dry the alum block after each use.:) I keep mine in a small plastic dish. I dry it and then place it in the dish to keep it dry and ready for the next shave.:)

@ozmobozo 3 жыл бұрын

So that's why mines keep getting crystallized. Lol mystery solved!

@sheshaveswithjill4838 5 жыл бұрын

Face should also have cold water on it and the alum bar with cold water also. Don't forget to dry off the alum block so it doesn't flake.

@borbetomagus 5 жыл бұрын

What brand do you use? I've used an Osma and never had any flaking issues, despite never drying it. It has always been smooth.

@sheshaveswithjill4838 5 жыл бұрын

I've never had one chip, flake, or deteriorate. I use RazoRock and Shave Nation blocks

@DS..69 Жыл бұрын

I use Razo Rock.

@leiturass.a Жыл бұрын

Hello There Mark! Here in Brazil we have a liquid spray version. I Will test It but it's interesting for travels and Very pratic.

@MarkSzorady Жыл бұрын

Victor,t hat's very neat! Please comment back or email me the details. Very interested.

@leiturass.a Жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady I never asked Your e-mail. What's Your e-mail? I can send tou photos of the products that I have here.

@MarkSzorady Жыл бұрын

@@leiturass.a georgetoon@gmail.com or mondaymailbag@gmail.com

@winnishave Жыл бұрын

I Love your comments - Greetings from Germany -winfried

@MarkSzorady Жыл бұрын

Thanks, Winfried! Hello to all in Germany!:)

@stephensmoot8874 5 жыл бұрын

Great video nice comparison on alum blocks I usually use alum if I have a nick or cut should I use it after every shave ? Thanks for the video 👍

@MarkSzorady 5 жыл бұрын

I use it after every shave. IMHO, it helps.:) YMMV, obviously.:) Some wet shavers find it to be too drying, but then simply adjust usage accordingly...they may rinse after 20 or 30 seconds of applying, etc.

@byrnedes 2 жыл бұрын

Alum blocks are an essential part of my shave routine. Also I use an Alum block as a very effective natural underarm deodorant.

@MarkSzorady 2 жыл бұрын

Yes, Des Byrne, I've heard of this. I have yet to try it though.

@tugboat8475 Жыл бұрын

The Slum block I ordered Just come in a little cardboard box. Very similar to a matchbox. How do you keep them dry? Do you just wrap them in a towel?

@bobjones8321 3 ай бұрын

I have been using Gentleman Jon alum block, however, just ordered Osma alum block. What would we do without Amazon?

@jerryg7391 5 жыл бұрын

I'll been using a aloe gel I got at the Dollar Tree for sun burns, it seems to work pretty good for me. You should get some and do a video of it and use it after you shave.

@MarkSzorady 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the suggestion.:) I like dollar Tree!:) There one nearby locally.:) I'll check it out.:) Thanks.:)

@jerryg7391 5 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady You're welcome!

@davidcoleman2463 5 жыл бұрын

When I first started out DE shaving I used one . Now I don't bother to much . I am a better shaver now .

@MarkSzorady 5 жыл бұрын

I was the same way. I started using it at first, then set it aside, then I came back to it. It's part of my daily shaving routine. To each his own.:)

@stricklandpropane86 4 жыл бұрын

I use Blue Beard's Revenge (UK brand) alum block, works really well. Greetings from England! :)

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

Hi, David Dhannoo. Nice.:) I use an alum block after every shave.:) Regarding Bluebeard's Revenge Alum Block, for those interested: www.bluebeards-revenge.co.uk/product/the-bluebeards-revenge-alum-block-75g/ Looks like it's sold out at the moment. Must be quite popular.:)

@stricklandpropane86 4 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady really good, first time I've used an alum block too. It's a great brand too! 🏴‍☠️

@stricklandpropane86 4 жыл бұрын

Would you do a vid using their products?

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

@@stricklandpropane86 I would love to.:)

@stricklandpropane86 4 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady great stuff 😀

@jeffsweat5182 3 ай бұрын

Great video but I have a question. At what stage do you use moisturizer? I have super dry skin. A run down in after the shave products would be really useful. Thanks so much

@bobjones8321 3 ай бұрын

Shave, rinse, apply alum block, wait 30 seconds, rinse, apply moisturizing after shave. Done.

@m40mclean9 5 жыл бұрын

I use the Barbero Alum Block No.01 2.64 oz / 75 g

@MarkSzorady 5 жыл бұрын

thaks!:) I'll check it out!:) I think I've seen this one when browsing amazon.:)

@davereed6363 3 жыл бұрын

I ordered the Barbero Alum block as well....should be here in a few days.

@bgm1911 2 жыл бұрын

Is there a difference between these blocks besides just size and price?

@MarkSzorady 2 жыл бұрын

it's the manufacture process. Osma blocks are made form a larger block. The others, depending on brand, as I understand it, are compressed from pellets or powder. I used to think that the compressed blocks would break down/dissolve and fall apart faster. I'm not really finding that, especially with the PAA alum block. it's keeps going and going.:)

@iR0NmAnKiD Жыл бұрын

Hey Mark, I was looking online for an article to see which blocks were solid and which were pressed but couldn't find any. Since you own so many, do you mind putting a quick list together? Please and thanks.

@MarkSzorady Жыл бұрын

Atomic90, this is only a guess...but as far as I know, the only alum block NOT pressed is Osma. It is100% machined from a larger block. Check out their manufacturing process at: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/ibSUobKbvZfFoI0.html As far as the others, just from appearance, and the ones I've tried, they look to be pressed together from either pellets or powder. I'm not entirely sure of the process, so cannot comment on how this is done. But I've heard those two terms, "pellets" and "powder", thrown about when talking about alum blocks manufacture. Anyhow, it would require a bit of research. Like you, I am curious to find out how it is done. Generally speaking, these pressed blocks are good. Amazon reviews can give you a clue as which are the better ones. While I was shy of using these pressed blocks, I've learned over time, and use, that many are quite good, hold up for a long, long time, and can be offered in larger sizes (like the PAA block) and different shapes (The Osma alum stick).

@iR0NmAnKiD Жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady Thank you for your detailed reply!

@Valandreas 4 жыл бұрын

So is a lack of stinging from the alum block an indication of a good shave? Because it seems my neck burns most every time.

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

Hi, Azareas. Fore me, yes. It's the equivalent of of a good stinging form an alcohol after shave splash. some wet shavers love the sting, others,not so much. The important thing is if you experience any irritation. An alum block will help knock down irritation.

@Valandreas 4 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady I'm still trying to dial in the right blade so, some stings are better than others, usually the neck area is where I feel it the most. So I shouldn't take the good stinging as a sign of a bad shave, good to know! Thank you!

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

@@Valandreas my pleasure.

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

@@Valandreas I'll get a little zing here and there. Sometimes it'll be more of a sting. But the main thing I look for is irritation. a little stinging and a zinging with no irritation tells me I did okay:) I prefer to have a nice smooth pass of the alum block, but the occasional zing, for me, is okay. Some wet shavers don't use an alum block and go straight to an alcohol-based after shave splash. I've read comments where they enjoy the stinging from the splash.:) I prefer an after shave to be non-stinging but with a nice bracing.:)

@notbulbous42 26 күн бұрын

I drop them all the time and they break....how do you prevent that?

@MarkSzorady 25 күн бұрын

One way is to get a good-sized rubber band to wrap around the edges to increase grip. These work (affiliate link): amzn.to/45RHQqA You can also buy an alum block from Phoenix Shaving . It comes with a No-Slip Grip! Affiliate links: Phoenix Shaving Solid Alum Block: Phoenix Shaving SOLID BLOCK No Slip Grip Alum: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/paa-potassium-alum-block-97-grams-w-rubber-grip-band-recyclable-plastic-travel-case?rfsn=4063161.c96a427 Alum Block Dry Dock System | With (or without) Our New SOLID BLOCK Alum! | Nature's Ancient Aftershave! | 3.17 oz [90 g]: phoenixartisanaccoutrements.com/products/alum-block-dry-dock-system-with-or-without-alum-block?rfsn=4063161.c96a427

@frederickmartin6998 2 жыл бұрын

Good information but I have a use for alum blocks that you didn't cover, wet your hands, rub the block then rub a razor handle if it is slippery. My Timeless bronze would not stay in my hand until I learned this trick (I think it was from Geofatboy).

@MarkSzorady 2 жыл бұрын

Frederick, yes, since making this video, I've also learned that alum block trick. I'll need to remember to mention it a bit more in my future videos. Thanks for the reminder.:)

@frederickmartin6998 2 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady Give credit to Geofatboy.

@Coconutboy66 3 жыл бұрын

Does this alum blocks need time to break in my one is gettin dry very fast when i rub it on my face it starts to stuck and is not glitting sry my english greetings from Germany

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

Not sure I understand. When I use an alum block, it gets smoother over time from the cold water.

@Coconutboy66 3 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady ok i will see today was my first use good skin feeling but i need to put it under the water several times couse it dry fast got one from de vergulde hand from netherlands greetings from Germany

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

@@Coconutboy66 I've always had good results with alum blocks from Osma and PAA.:)

@desertfoxxx98 3 жыл бұрын

Osma blocks are alot cheaper here in England I payed $9 for a 100g one.

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, DesertFox xx98.:) Appreciate the information for those viewers who live in your area and throughout Europe.:)

@cristianbortos7757 4 жыл бұрын

I used Alum for two times, but after each shave I get irritation every time.. I never leave it more than a minute on my face, but when I rinse it off, my face is full of red spots. What could be the problem?

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

Hi, Cristian Bortos. Sorry to hear this. I've never heard of this before. As with all shaving gear, it's a YMMV situation. I could only guess what might be the cause.

@jeroendroideka380 4 жыл бұрын

Hey mate.may i ask how many passes you do, and wich type of blade you use in combination with your razor?

@cristianbortos7757 4 жыл бұрын

@@jeroendroideka380 I always take 3 passes, the last one against the grain, I use Perma Sharp blades.

@jeroendroideka380 4 жыл бұрын

@@cristianbortos7757 have you ever tried an Voskod blade? I made the diff for me

@cristianbortos7757 4 жыл бұрын

@@jeroendroideka380 those will definitely be on my list, been want to try them for some time..

@fahimshahriyar2801 3 жыл бұрын

How long a alum block remain for you

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

The alum block from PAA has given me outstanding performance. I started using it July of 2020. I just recently replaced it about a week ago. However, it's still going strong. I decided to replace it with a new PAA Allen block that looks a little better on camera. I continue to use the original Allen block when I'm not shooting video. So that's roughly 7 months being used everyday.

@fahimshahriyar2801 3 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady thanks a lot for your valuable reply....love from sylhet Bangladesh ♥️

@MarkSzorady 3 жыл бұрын

@@fahimshahriyar2801 My pleasure.:) And thank you for tuning in to my channel.:)

@samgovender7172 Жыл бұрын

Where u buy alum block

@bobjones8321 3 ай бұрын

Amazon. Where else? Lol.

@thomaspavelko9412 11 ай бұрын

I just use a travel soap container

@taigaboi 4 жыл бұрын

girls call the alum block the natural botox. they use it all over their face. I can confirm if it really helps against wrinkles though. girls tends to do all kinds of crazy things

@MarkSzorady 4 жыл бұрын

Really? I've never heard this before.:) Interesting little nugget.:) Thank you very much, Taigaboi!

@whatdam3rks426 3 жыл бұрын

Bruh zaxbys aint that good

@VisboerAnton 2 жыл бұрын

My alum blocks burns like hell lol

@MarkSzorady 2 жыл бұрын

Visboer when I get feedbacklike this, for me, it means the alum block is doing it's job in knocking down irritation and sealing up some minor nicks. Also, it means I got a very close shave.

@VisboerAnton 2 жыл бұрын

@@MarkSzorady Hey! Thanks for your reply. I forgot to mention it was my first time using it after I saw you recommend it in your video. Started DE shaving a week ago and I was expecting it to bee something like a soothing cream, so I spread it all over my neck and face; then, hell broke loose ;P ...