I actually don't mind the sensory experience of applying fruity-scented lotion on soles before tickling. My ultimate scenario's kinda simple, and it's evolved over 30 years: Long massage with lotion (I prefer fruity or mint scents/flavors), with feet on my lap (eight fingers massage action, with thumbs on tops on feet. Never understood this face-the-soles jive, with only the thumbs massaging). Then gradual lighter, faster strokes until full tickling commences. If the gyrations get a bit intense, I tie ankles together with silk scarves or other soft stuff and continue. At some juncture, when the lotion's all absorbed, I start oral tickles with tongue on soles and toe nibble/sucks. The MO is similar with other ticklish body parts, but I shant get into that here. The scenario must-haves: couch (when it's just feet), initial massage, lotion.