I had dry skin problems when I first switched from cartridges and still do if I get the angle wrong or shave with a dull blade. Used to use alcohol free after shave balm all the time and learned to love Corn Huskers over the winter. Lately though, I've been using Witch Hazel (the inexpensive varitety with alcohol, like you're using). I usually follow that with Aqua Velva, which also has alcohol.

So, plenty of alcohol, but no dry skin. Life is good. Different folks have different skin. If you're like me, it can change from day to day. I'd say if it works for you, that's a great thing. Witch Hazel seems to work for me no matter what my skin is doing on any particular day. Great stuff...