Acting as a superb coagulant, alum blocks can be made from either potash alum or ammonium alum, both of which have vessel constricting astringent properties that can curb and stop any minor bleed, nick or cut. Alum blocks and styptic pencils also have well renowned antiseptic properties that cool and refresh your skin after shaving, leaving it feeling ready and protected for the day ahead. Acting as a balm these wonderful products cover the skin in a thin protective layer that aids the skin in the regeneration process from day to day skin damage. These glorious little discoveries also act to reduce razor burns, ingrown hairs and can help you gauge how well you've shaved and are a necessity for any shaving kit.