I tried a month of daily hot-hot water soaked towels and concluded I had more neck irritation than without. 80-shaves down the road I prefer a lukewarm- or cool water rinse (or a shower) before slicing and dicing. No irritation and the same good shave. I went back and revisted a hot towel treatment a few days ago just to make sure - didn't hurt, didn't help. YMMV