If you are used to shooting jacketed bullets, any lead bullet will be "smoky" in comparison. I use Unique for nearly all my loads.
The unburned flakes suggests you need more crimp or perhaps a bit more powder.
I load 6.0gr Unique with all my .45 bullets (185gr -230gr cast and jacketed). The 185gr JHP (found again, left over from a bulk buy a long time ago) are really light but function my guns and leave some unburned powder on the bench in front of me, the 200gr and 230gr don't.
I find the "dirt" from Unique while clearly visible is a light "soot" that is easily removed. I basically just wipe it off, use a Q-tip on the ramp and breech face, a drop of oil on each rail, and return it to the safe for next trip. I only take down for cleaning after I have a problem. Usually get over 1000-1500 rounds out of most guns. I like shooting a lot more than cleaning and don't find Unique to be any problem.
--wally.