Question re shave prep

Assuming preshave prep as maximally softened the hair cuticles, for how long does the effect last? In other words, when I get out of the shower, if it takes say five to ten minutes to mix lather, apply, and start shaving, have I lost the benefit of the prep during that lag time? And say another ten minutes into the shave, should I repeat the use of a hot towel applied to the beard? Once the cuticle has been "damaged," or opened, does it stay that way or does it close up again and, if it does, how long does it take to do so? Hope this is clear.

This is going to vary from person to person. I've pretty much found out that after a shower I've got to get lathered up within about 15min or else my beard hairs start to "firm" back up. Theres quite a few variables that come into play like thickness of the beard hair, coarsness (as coarser hair "generally" tends to absorb more water) etc, etc.. I'd say that it would probably be best (if you are worried about it) to experiment and see what your personal situation is like and if you want to help prolong the softened state try some of the pre-shave oils that are available. Just a suggestion.

You don't stay with dry place- put some shaving soap or cream on your face while you make a lather- it's continue of the preparation and you have a time to mix a soap, strop your razor ect

I lather up in the shower. When I'm done I dry off and step up to shave, beard's still prepped.

After I've got out of the shower/bath I've allready got my brush soaking in the sink. I'll then put hotter water in and have a flanel to hand. Between shaves I'll wring my flanel out and wrap it round my face.

Thanks for the insights. I remember some years ago seeing a microphotograph of a hair shaft before and after being prepped -- you could see the cuticle scales flaring out after some hot water. Does anyone know of anything like that with some kind of time line before they start to close again? Thanks.

Once again a timeline won't do much good without knowing really what condition or type the hair in question is. If you need extra time to prep for for your shave I'd say that YORKIE's suggestion with the flannel is your best bet. If your worried that your "drying-up" use a hot towel to re-treat the wiskers.

Like they said it will depend on your beard. The best advice is not to worry about it and just lather up when you step out of the shower and keep the lather on as you strop and get ready to shave.