The way u use it is up to personal preference actually. U could just apply some to your palm then rub your palms together and then pat onto your face/shaven areas. Don't use too much. If u have a spray type try not to spray directly and use the palm method.

Balms are more for dry/sensitive skin as they contain little or no alcohol. Regular aftershave contains alcohol and gives the stinging effect that some guys like. If u have sensitive skin stay away from aftershaves with alcohol.

I have used a few regular pharmacy brands like gillette, nivea and adidas. But I found them to leave a slight shine and oily layer on my face. So now i just use my toner as an aftershave and finish off with a little moisturizer to calm the skin down. However, the newer nivea aftershave blams have been getting good reviews so u might want to check them out.

A good pre shave routine of cleansing and scrubbing will help improve your shaves. This in effect will help maximize the function of your aftershave. A good shaver helps too.

When u shave u r basically giving yourself hundreds of tiny little cuts...that's why when u apply aftershave lotion it stings. So the job of after shave is really to take care of these little cuts and prevent infections. Aftershave also closes up the pores and moisturizers the skin as shaving can be quite harsh on the skin. There are so many kinds of aftershaves in the market nowadays so its up to u to decide what kind u want. Your skin type is important too when choosing an aftershave.

From my experience, one of the best moisturizers for oily/acne prone skin is Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. Skin absorbs this moisturizer almost instantly and makes your skin feel silky smooth and not oily at all. But its on the pricier side. 50ml retails for RM87. There is men version from Clinique called M Gel Lotion, which is basically the same thing..retails for RM140 for 100ml...its cheaper per ml than the 50ml womens. A 50ml tube lasts me around 3-4 months.

No idea about Issey Miyake skincare products.

Depends on how much facial hair u have. If u got the Chinese kind of facial hair like me then u won't need so many products or a very complicated pre and post shave routine. Just wash your face properly before u shave, use a good shaver and a decent aftershave lotion/balm should be sufficient.

student no $$ can afford designer brand products.... wow!
Nivea For Men, Gillette, old spice should work just as well, only no fancy designer smell..
want a quality aftershave product get those skin care brands