

However, these symptoms should resolve quickly, and eating or drinking may reduce their effects. If alum gets in the eyes, a person should remove any glasses or contact lenses immediately and rinse the eye continuously with room temperature water for 15–20 minutes.Īlum products can also cause mild poisoning if an individual ingests them, which may lead to nausea, vomiting, or an upset stomach. In some cases, it may cause long lasting damage.

If a person gets alum or styptic pencil in their eyes, it can cause irritation. However, while no research indicates whether it is an effective treatment for either of these, anecdotal reports state that it helps.Īlum may also appear on the ingredients list of skin whitening products, but there is no evidence it lightens the skin.Īlum may carry some potential risks, which include the below. Acneīecause it is an astringent and inhibits bacteria, some people use alum to reduce oily skin and acne. These deodorants may work by shrinking sweat ducts and reducing bacteria that cause body odor. Some companies refer to these products as “crystal deodorants.” It is available in both standard deodorants and as a block that people get wet and then rub directly under the arms. Antiperspirant deodorantĪlum is a popular ingredient in antiperspirants for its ability to reduce sweating.

Styptic pencils are anti-hemorrhagic agents that treat shaving cuts by aiding clotting and quickly sealing the wound. This may help reduce the risk of a shaving rash or infection.Īlum is also an ingredient in styptic pencils, another shaving product that manufacturers make by fusing potassium alum with potassium nitrate. ShavingĪlum blocks make for popular shaving products because they prevent bacterial growth and reduce inflammation. Below are some of the topical uses for alum.
