Synthetic brushes need a different approach. They do not hold water very well. None of them. But, they do lather like a beast. And my method is to bloom hard soap with a short soak of hot water. Not necessary with soft soaps or creams. Then load the synthetic brush until you think you have enough for your shave. Your experience guides this. Then face or bowl lather adding very little water until you have what you like. And, I find synthetics, using this method, are way faster then badger or boar. Different strokes for different folks. I use boar, badger and synthetics according to mood. And, they all work very well!