I started a thread on exactly the same topic recently and got lots of different responses. For what it's worh I have used T&H in the past which is OK but I'm not too keen on the smell. Some people complain that it clogs the brush and leaves a residue - not something that I've experienced. I'm currently using John Allans Slick Water - as the name suggest it is not oil based - I think it works jsut as well. In the UK it is ridiculously expensive but I assume you can do much better locally.

The only way you will find out if any of the pre shaves make a difference is to try them. Proraso seems to be popular and is available in normal and sensitive varieties.

Good luck.