Every shaver is different as to what pre shave routine works for them. When you ask what works you will get many answers. Just try changing something and see if it works better for you. If the change makes no difference to you try something else and so on till you have your preferences pinned down.

Personally, I get by nicely with a splash of cold water, face lather and shave. None of the pre shave routines or using hot water made any improvements to my shave, but I had to try them to find out.

Bob