Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on the Strategist in September 2018, and almost two years later, this product remains an example of one that does what it’s supposed to do — exceptionally well. So we’re republishing it today as part of Ingenious Design Week.
I’m not the most diligent person with a razor. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve shaved in the shower and missed a patch or two, only to discover it mid-meeting, at the beach, or anywhere else where I can’t get back in the shower and fix it. So when I recently stumbled upon the Sphynx razor, I immediately ordered it.
The Sphynx is a compact, circular plastic case — it looks a little like old-school birth control, or Hubba Bubba Bubble Tape gum — that’s a three-fer portable shaving kit. Inside, there’s a refillable water spritzer, a bar of shave lather, and a razor blade (plus an extra two for future use). Here’s how it works: Twist the dial in the center of the palm-size kit, and you’re able to switch between the aforementioned bottle, soap, and razor. Start by misting the area to be shaved, then click over to the all-natural emollient lather bar, to create a smooth surface for the blade to glide over. Then click the dial one more time to get to the razor. And then shave, quickly and anywhere.
The first time I tried the Sphynx, it was to fix a swipe of underarm hair I missed before heading to the beach with family this summer. The single-blade razor did an impressive job of fixing my mistakes. Bonus: I also learned that the lather bar could be used after shaving as a moisturizer — a soothing benefit for my supersensitive skin. As an experiment, I later tried shaving my legs with the Sphynx, and it’s somewhat laborious. I also had to refill the water four times. But for a touch-up, I didn’t refill it at all.
The Sphynx is very much a portable product; the founders actually designed it with just one blade for that reason: According to their FAQ page, unlike multiblade razors, you’ll never need to tap it on a sink to rid it of hairs. That means less clogging and a cleaner device, which feels like a reasonable requirement for anything you’ll want to permanently stash in your work bag.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.
