I just do a cold water rinse, leave the water on and rub the alum block around my face. I let the alum sit for a minute or two then rinse my face again with cold water and apply nivea after shave balm. Then I let the after shave sit on my face for a couple of minutes to dry then apply my face cream.

I didn't use to use the alum block since I have sensitive skin, but I find it works really well as long as I don't leave it on my skin for too long.