A styptic pencil, also called a hemostatic pencil, is a block of alum (usually aluminum sulfate) formed in the shape of a pencil. Biology Online defines hemostatic as "a medicine or application to arrest hemorrhage." Alum stops bleeding by causing the blood vessels to constrict so that blood does not flow out of the cut. Styptic pencils are most commonly used to stop bleeding caused by shaving nicks, but they can also be used to control bleeding from minor cuts. According to Straight Razor Place, styptic pencils cause a burning sensation when applied, but they rapidly control bleeding in superficial wounds.
Step 1
Wet the tip of the styptic pencil with cool water.
Step 2
Press the tip of the styptic pencil directly onto the shaving nick or small, superficial cut. Hold the pencil on the nick or cut for 5 seconds or until bleeding stops. If the bleeding continues after 30 seconds, reapply the styptic pencil again for five more seconds. If needed, reapply the styptic pencil a third time.
Step 3
Apply pressure to the nick or cut with a clean piece of gauze if the styptic pencil fails to stop the bleeding after three tries. If the bleeding is not controlled after 10 minutes of applied pressure or if the bleeding is profuse, seek medical treatment.
Step 4
Rinse the tip of the styptic pencil off under cool running water to remove blood.
Step 5
Dry the styptic pencil off with a clean tissue or cloth.
Tips and Warnings
- The aluminum sulfate found in styptic sticks is the same ingredient used in most antiperspirants.
- Do not use styptic pencils near the eyes, mucous membranes or on large or deep wounds. The Environmental Working Group warns that aluminum sulfate may cause cancer, neurological problems and reproductive problems.
Things You'll Need
- Clean gauze
- Clean tissue or cloth
