Rock alum: a natural deodorant without chemical ingredients

Rock alum (or potassium alum) is a natural salt, perfect as a natural deodorant, without chemical ingredients, as it acts as a protective "film" on the sweat glands that prevents the growth of bad odor bacteria. The saline component of this mineral creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria, which instead proliferate in the moist areas of the body and allow the formation of bad odors.

Furthermore, rock alum is an excellent disinfectant: it is used for any type of skin irritation, rashes, and burns. Due to its astringent and hemostatic properties, it is also used to immediately stop bleeding from cuts and small wounds, such as those resulting from hair removal or shaving. In the form of small crystals, it is useful for soothing the skin after shaving or hair removal and for immediately healing small cuts. It is also used to relieve itching caused by insect bites and to speed healing of cold sores and boils.

Rock alum is generally available commercially in stone form, but it's often used in various types of organic and natural deodorants, both in spray and stick form. More commonly, however, as mentioned, rock alum appears as an inert crystal, but its use is incredibly simple. First you need to wet the stone to moisten it, and then rub it repeatedly on areas where there's usually the most sweat, especially the feet and armpits. Once you're done, simply rinse the crystal again and let it dry before using it again. Very useful for men after shaving because it is soothing and healing in case of small cuts, but the same goes for hair removal or shaving of sensitive areas of women. In the same way it also works very well on the very annoying welts of the mosquito bites.

This is the best way to use rock alum as a deodorant:

• Take the rock alum stone and before use, wet it slightly with water: just run a wet finger over the stone or hold it under water for 1–2 seconds. No need
• Pass the stone on clean and slightly damp armpits.
• You don't need to immerse it completely, just wet the surface you're going to use.

•  You can also do it every day, after your shower.
• Rinse the stone under running water to remove any sweat residue.

• Let it air dry, preferably in a dry place, so it lasts longer without breaking.

Rock alum can also be purchased and used in powder form. In this case, its main function is to absorb the bad smellsRock alum powder is very fine, like salt, and simply placing it in the refrigerator on a small plate or coffee cup eliminates unpleasant odors. You can also use rock alum powder in the kitchen when there are unpleasant odors.

In crystal formRock alum is practically inert, but some small precautions must be taken to preserve it in order to maintain its properties intact.
First of all, avoid exposing it too much to the oxidative effects of air, especially when wet. Ideally, it should be stored away from excessive humidity and sunlight: a small tin or dark jar is perfect, but a closed soap dish without any holes will also work. By following these simple tips: the alum will always remain functional and useful for our daily use.

Some people have very sensitive skin , and rock alum can cause redness, itching, or burning, especially if used on already irritated skin, open wounds, or even in excessive amounts. Furthermore, potassium alum should not be used on large cuts, deep wounds, or infections , and in these cases it is not a substitute for medications or medical treatments.