The alum definitely lets you know where things were a little rougher
Congrats on your first SR shave.

Yes,..you can't hide the truth from the Alum,.....t will grade your shave for you every time.

A quick note once you have finished with the Alum is dry it off and gently set it down away from touching any metal.
Also the Alum is very brittle, so avoid dropping or you will end up with hundreds of baby Alums.