I also agree with the trial and error. I shower then shave. I use preshave oil before lathering my face. I find that my systems works for my face and beard. But many members here have different routines. I am a pansy and have to use warm/hot water. It also seems to help with my wiskers, so I can make a "manly" excuse for being a pansy.

If we were all cookie cutter shavers, we would use the plastic disposables. We are all after the truly personal, relaxing shave so it will be different for each of us.

Be patient as you find what works well for you. Like the lottery, the right combination is out there. You just have to keep searching for it. You will find the right shave long before the right lottery numbers though