Blocmen Pre Shave Powder put to the test: white stick works wonders

I like to shave wet, with foam and a razor. While testing the Panasonic 900 S electric shaver, I struggled using it on dry skin – like a classic electric shaver, that is.

A powder to solve my problem

The only way to avoid unpleasant dry skin was to use the device on wet skin – ideally after showering. In the comments on my review, an anonymous user promptly suggested a solution to my boggle.

A pre-shave powder stick? Never heard of it. Turns out we do actually carry the suggested Blocmen brand – two versions at that.

Shaving foam + Shaving gel

Blocmen Pre Shave Powder Stick

Shaving gel

5

Shaving foam + Shaving gel

Blocmen Derma shaving powder stick

50 ml, Shaving gel

7

I quickly order one of the sticks. To be on the safe side, I opt for the orange Derma version, which is supposedly the gentlest for skin.

A milky miracle on my cheek

The stick looks like a piece of soft chalk. Inside, the powder is firmly pressed together, but comes off easily as soon as I brush it over my stubbly cheek. I promptly «paint» all the areas I want to shave with the fine, white powder.

And then off we go: I use the Panasonic from my last review, just without any moisture or wetness, running it along my cheek. Woah! The device glides over my skin much more gently. I hardly feel anything – and there’s way less noise when using the powder.

I also try it on the delicate areas around my chin, where some skin came off easily during my first test without the stick. Nothing happens. I can shave the rest of my face without any problems, the Panasonic shaver glides comfortably over the skin.

I wash my face of any remaining powder. An impressive result: the shave is at least as thorough as on damp skin, which is significantly less irritated at that. Finally, I apply my favourite after-shave balm from Proraso and I’m ready for the day – as our ad so beautifully puts it (click the gear icon for English subtitles).

Aftershave

Proraso aftershave

Balm, 100 ml

37

Aftershave

Proraso aftershave

Balm, 100 ml

37

The dark side of the light (powder)

Note, Powder Stick manufacturer Blocmen discreetly conceals some negatives. They also exist, of course. The white powder will inevitably spread across your face, as well as your clothes and the entire sink. As our house uses darker designs, I can see very easily how much material is lost during application as well as shaving.

Even when closing the lid, powder residue that’s already detached from the stick can fall off. It really is like chalk – everything’s a bit dusty after use. Of course, this also applies to the razor, where powder even mixes with loose hairs.

Luckily, loose powder can be cleaned easily. I can also dry-wipe the powder off clothing without it leaving any residue. Although this is a little tedious, it’s generally easy to do.