Our long-lasting alum is made of potassium alum (aka Potash Alum). It is a pure product made without the addition of chemicals, fragrances, oils or alcohol. Potash Alum has a variety of uses including as an antiseptic and astringent, thus making it very effective as a hemostat to stop bleeding from shaving-related nicks (small cuts). To use, just moisten a section of the cube with cold water then gently rub over the nick. The QEDman alum can also be used as an underarm deodorant. Ordinary deodorants merely cover up odor with unnecessary and unwanted chemicals. Alum does one simple thing that makes it better the commercial deodorants: it neutralizes bacteria to prevent body odor - even after strenuous activity. In addition, alum is hypoallergenic, gentle on skin, and dries instantly. Dampen the block and apply to CLEAN skin in the same fashion you would a stick deodorant. Alum aids in preventing odor, it is not an anti-perspirant (which is a good thing, since anti-perspirants block pores). After use clean the alum block thoroughly with water, dry it and store in a dry place. If you allow the block to remain moist or exposed to moisture it will simply dissolve. The 2.65oz alum block is wrapped in cellophane. $4.75