Normally, cold water shaving is an irritation reducer. One thing I kept from hot shaving was using hair conditioner as part of my pre shave routine. When ready to lather up I usually add a thin layer of Aveeno Therapeutic Shave Gel (in a can), or generic equivalent, worked in with my finger tips over the conditioner. Over this base I apply the uber lather of the day and shave away. Any irritation I have from that combo is usually neglect from using too much pressure in places.