Alum Stone: Is it dangerous for the face?

What exactly is alum stone?

It's a small pebble that's getting a lot of attention: alum stone . Long used as a natural deodorant, it's also starting to find its place in beauty routines, especially for the face. Behind its translucent crystal appearance, alum stone is actually a mineral composed of aluminum salts . There are two types:

• Natural alum stone , which contains Potassium Alum . It is extracted from mines, often in Syria or Panama.
• And the synthetic version , made in the laboratory, with Ammonium Alum .

Why do some people use it for their face?

Because she has more than one trick up her sleeve! Here's why she's so appealing:

• It tightens pores , which can give a smoothed skin effect.
• It is astringent and can help regulate excess sebum (hello oily skin).
• It has antibacterial properties, making it a natural option for small pimples.
• And it can even soothe irritation after shaving .

But is it dangerous then?

This is where things get a little complicated.

The word that annoys: aluminum

Yes, alum stone contains aluminum. But in the natural version, the aluminum is in a form that cannot be absorbed by the skin . The molecules are too large to pass through the skin barrier. So far, no serious studies have proven that natural alum stone poses a health hazard .

It's a different story for the synthetic version, which is much more criticized. So again: check the label carefully. If it says "Ammonium Alum," move on.

Can it irritate the skin?

Like any product, it's not suitable for everyone. If you have very dry, sensitive, or redness-prone skin, it can sometimes feel a little tight or cause minor irritation. A good idea: test it on a small area before applying it all over your face.

Best practices for using it safely

• Moisten the stone before applying it (never rub it dry).
• Gently pat the affected area, no need to scrub like a scouring sponge.
• Do not apply it around the eyes or on damaged skin.
• And above all, choose a natural stone with the words "Potassium Alum".

Verdict: To avoid or not?

In short, no, natural alum stone is not dangerous for the face , provided you use it correctly. It can even be very useful, especially for oily or blemish-prone skin. The secret is to choose natural alum, use it sparingly, and above all, listen to your skin.