My skin is difficult to figure out. Sometimes Tend Skin works, sometimes Barc's works, sometimes I don't need anything. I use alcohol products very rarely if I have noticeable bumps to get rid of kind of like a counterattack.
Just noticed that you shave ATG. Stop doing that. Some people, I'm one of them, cannot shave against the grain. If I do, I get the same symptoms you've been describing.
Right there with you brother, I cringe to think of going against the grain, the most I can do is across, tried it once, never again.
I can go ATG (primarily South to North) but many people can't. Just work on your WTG and especially XTG passes a little more and you should receive a benefit.
There are some alcohol-free types listed on this page. http://www.thayers.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=3&zenid=kmipm1b0a4vet99o7upkvm8354
I know some people have issue with Alum if they donw wash it off after. I had always assumed you just left it on. some do some dont...