Alum is known as one of the effective ingredients in dealing with body odor. Generally, alum is used when in the form of stones, but nowadays alum can also be found in the form of a liquid spray. How can alum treat body odor and what are its side effects? Find out in the following article.

What is Alum?

Alum or known as alum stone is a crystal stone made of potassium or potassium aluminum sulfate. Alum or alum has many benefits in beauty products, one of which is as a deodorant or antiperspirant. The mineral content in alum has an astringent and antiseptic effect that is effective in reducing body odor caused by bacteria.

Also read: Apa Penyebab Masalah Bau Badan (Bromhidrosis)?

The Benefits of Alum for Armpits (Underarms)

Below are some of the topical uses for alum:

Treat armpit odor

Alum can be used as a deodorant or antiperspirant to treat body odor, especially in the armpit area. The use of alum can also help reduce excess sweat production, thereby reducing armpit odor.

Soothes skin after shaving

As reported by Healthline, alum can also help soothe the skin after shaving with a razor or waxing. The astringent content of alum has a calming effect and prevents skin irritation that often occurs after shaving.

Reduces the risk of cuts after shaving

The astringent content of alum also serves to reduce the risk of ingrown hair as well as cuts from shaving. You can apply alum to the shaving area to minimize the side effects of shaving such as cuts and germ infections.

Tightens armpit skin

As reported by Medical News Today, the astringent content of alum can cause the skin to contract or shrink. The use of astringents can temporarily reduce pore size and tighten the skin. The antiseptic content also helps prevent acne in the area.

Also read: Sama-Sama Mengurangi Bau Badan, Ini Beda Deodoran dan Antiperspiran

How to Use Alum Stone for Armpits

Alum is usually used in the form of alum stone. Currently on the market there are alum preparations such as alum spray or powder that are easier to use. If you want to use alum stone to remove underarm odor, you can use this method:

• Dry your body after showerig, especially the armpits area
• Wet the aluiim stone with cold water
• Gently rub the wet alum stone unto the skin
• Let the alum sit for 15-20 seconds, rinse using cold water until clean
• Apply moisturizer or aftershave lotion

After using the alum stone, dry the alum stone by patting a towel until it is completely dry. It is important to dry the alum stone completely before storing it as alum can dissolve if exposed to water. Store the alum stone in a cool, dry place with access to sufficient airflow to keep the alum stone dry.

The Side Effects of Alum

Alum is a natural ingredient that has a number of skin and health benefits, but the use of alum can cause side effects such as tingling, burning, dryness and itching. If the burning or stinging does not subside and causes redness on the skin, you should temporarily stop using alum.

Alum is an effective ingredient for reducing body odor. If you have problems with body odor or excessive sweating, consult a doctor immediately for appropriate treatment. You can also use the consultation feature available on the Ai Care app.

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