That's why when you go to a barber shop for a shave, they throw a steaming towel over your face!!! It really softens the beard and you get a much closer shave. Never shave BEFORE you shower...shave after. AND as a bonus, your blade will last much longer!
That is what i do, shower then shave. I think it works for clipping nails too, they are softer after coming out of the water.