I don't use a "preshave" but since I normally shower before I shave, I sometimes use hair conditioner on my face and beard. As long as you do not use a conditioner that is designed to strengthen damaged hair, it will soften your beard and leave behind a slick layer on your skin that acts as a preshave. If I have more than one day's growth, I will use the conditioner to make it easier to to shave my tough beard.