I use a Sandalwood scented soap. I just like the smell of that fragrance is all. but I use high quality soaps in my mugs. I have 3. One is empty for the use of creams from time to time.
but back to it. After I start to get some lather in the bowl, I quickly add an amount of Glycerin used in soap making (VEGETABLE) get my brush warm again quickly and then lather that up just before going on to my face.
That gives my lather a LONG lasting slick surface on my face, as well as protects my skin a bit.

I'd be interested to hear if anyone else had success with this method.