I also can't use alum as an aftershave treatment, makes my skin feel very uncomfortable. My routine; hot bath or shower (make sure you wash your beard area thoroughly). Work lather in for a couple of minutes, shave, hot water rinse after all of your passes (not inbetween passes) and then a cold water rinse for at least 30 seconds. Dry face, patting only. Aftershave splash, allow to dry. Talc on an old flannel patted onto the shaved area. This has been a real eye opener for me personally, really calms the skin, takes away any redness etc. Give it a go, worth a shot.