Thread: Deteriorating Styptic Pencil

I have a styptic pencil that is kept in a plastic tube. It seems like the thing deteriorates very quickly, with the surface getting all bumpy, then it starts to crumble, even though I'm a long way from using it up.

Any suggestions about how to prevent Chronic Styptic Pencil Degradation?

Leave it out of the tube so that it can fully dry. I think residual moisture is the cause of the problem. Then again, excessive use might be part of the problem as well!

I have noticed this as well with my styptic pencil and my razorock alum. I now leave my alum container open to dry, but even with that, I notice a crystal build up around the base.

I think the best bet is to pat it dry after each use and leave open to air dry. Thank god I have not needed my styptic pencil in some time. I still have a scar from the last time I needed it.

I use the liquid stuff and don't have that problem!

I leave the top off now after I use it then seal it up later..

Dry it off with a towel before you put it in the tube. Dry every last bit of moisture off, and it will last forever.

Yep, it's the moisture that does that. It's a good indicator of how humid the room is. Usually though they last long enough so you just buy a new one once a year or so.

Not sure where you are storing it. I keep mine in the medicine cabinet and always keep a couple of dessicant packs in there for that and for anything that gets put in there with moisture from my hands. Wiping dry and storing this way I have never had any problems.

I always wipe the moisture off it before storing.

You might punch a hole in the container cap to allow moisture to escape.

I have the Clubman (I think) travel size at $1.29 so I don't worry too much about it. When I need replace it, no big deal. But yes, I do make sure it is completely dry before I put it away.