I read somewhere that this product is formulated as a cleaner and humectant to soften the beard and really let the soap do its stuff.
With this in mind I've started giving my face a quick cat wash and applying proraso pre shave before I get in the shower. I get my brush soaking and load the De blade with the cream applied to give it some time to work. Then a quick shower, face is squeaky clean.
A quick dash of bloom water and I lather up.
I've been getting great shaves like this. Whiskers are noticeably easier to cut.
Try it, hopefully works for you too.