I use the alum block occassionally, whn I do a very close shave. But on normal days it's like Hirlau: Splash the Witch Hazel and then Pinaud Clubman. Actually I would say it depends on how my skin feels. If I feel I need the stronger astringency of the alum, that's the way to go. My favorite is Thayer's, now I'm using the rose one which I share with SWMBO.