Hello, I just shaved, lathered up stropped and decided to wipe the lather off and try with water only as Ive been tempted to do. Jnat edge, sharp as %^&*. No blood, no irritation, no weepers. I knew lather was overrated! A big YMMV! Ive always thought the lather holds the moisture on the face nothing more. I dont think a soap or cream can stop the irritation cuts or weepers caused by bad shaving technique. How much cushion can a soap or creme have if against a carbon or stainless steel blade anyway?