
3 min learnNew DelhiFeb 12, 2026 10:00 AM IST
Shark Tank India’s Anupam Mittal just lately spoke about his private hygiene habits, revealing that he stopped utilizing “artificial” aftershaves about 2 years in the past. “They’re hormonal disruptors. They’re artificial. The long-term impact is extreme. Actually, I finished utilizing the aftershave I utilized two years in the past. I now use phitkari…alum stone,” he informed Balika Vadhu actor Neha Marda Agrawal, who appeared on the present’s newest season in search of funding for her phitkari-based physique odour-containing model.
Switching from aftershave to phitkari (alum) is a alternative some individuals make to cut back pores and skin irritation, nevertheless it comes with each advantages and limitations, consultants recommend.
Notably, aftershaves typically comprise alcohol, perfume, and preservatives, which may dry the pores and skin, disrupt the pores and skin barrier, and set off irritation, redness, or razor bumps, particularly in delicate or acne-prone pores and skin. “Stopping aftershave may help scale back dryness, stinging, and post-shave irritation,” stated Dr Shareefa Chause, dermatologist, Dr Shareefa Pores and skin Care Clinic, Mumbai, including that many people discover calmer pores and skin and fewer breakouts over time once they cease the utilization.

Including that phitkari has pure astringent and antibacterial properties, the knowledgeable continued, “It’s identified to assist tighten pores, and scale back bacterial progress, which may decrease the chance of razor infections. It’s fragrance-free and often well-tolerated, making it a safer possibility for individuals with delicate pores and skin.”
Nevertheless, utilizing phitkari isn’t with out drawbacks.
“Overuse can overly dry the pores and skin, resulting in tightness, flaking, or elevated sensitivity. It additionally doesn’t present hydration or barrier restore like fashionable, dermatologist-tested post-shave merchandise. In individuals with eczema-prone or very dry pores and skin, common alum use could worsen dryness,” stated Dr Chause.
If utilizing phitkari, it needs to be adopted by a delicate, non-comedogenic moisturiser to keep up pores and skin steadiness and forestall long-term dryness. So, be cautious whereas utilizing even phitkari as moderation is essential, stated Dr Chause.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.





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