My shower is my pre-shave. Hot soaking wash towels work too. Splashing water on the stubble.
Try lathering up, then doing something else in the sink like brushing your teeth. Time while whiskers are hydrating.
I tried a few pre-shaves and they didn't do it for me plus one clogged my razor's lather slots. That's when I quit.
+1! Tried a few pre-shaves that provided little or no benefit, so I don’t use these products.
However, many here do find a benefit. Thus, worth a try.