This might come as a bit of a surprise to those of you who do it on a daily basis, but shaving doesn’t need to suck. Sure, no matter what, you’re going to have to get up a little earlier to get it done. And yes, it’ll always require dragging the sharp edge of a blade across your bare skin. (Unless, of course, they ever figure out that “laser razor” thing, but don't hold your breath.) But the fact is that the whole endeavor can actually be pain- and razor-burn-free—the key is to have the most effective set of tools at your disposal. Here, seven essential upgrades to your shaving arsenal to make getting ready in the morning that much easier.

$85, available at getbevel.com

Not Your Father’s Safety Razor

Bevel’s single-blade subscription option is designed to keep your face fur in check while reducing razor bumps and irritation, something your old safety razor cannot boast.

$13, available at walmart.com

The Next-Level Multi-Blade

For the irritation-prone, look no further than the Gillette Fusion ProShield, made with both pre- and post-blade lube to ensure the smoothest shave you could possibly hope for.

$205, available at amazon.com

The Best in Electric

Prefer to let the razor do all the work? Braun’s Series 9 shaver’s got you covered; waterproof and self-cleaning, it’ll allow you to multitask without a touch of worry.

$16, available at saksfifthavenue.com

Cream of the Crop

When it comes to getting the smoothest shave, your usual foam’s got nothing on this lightweight gel-lotion by Kiehl’s. Bonus: It applies clear, so you can be sure you’re not missing a single hair.

$32, available at nordstrom.com

The Ideal Shave Oil

Why buy shaving cream, moisturizer, and aftershave when you can have all thee in one? Formulated to close pores and calm irritation, Blackbird’s Transparent Shave Oil is the Swiss Army knife of shave products.

$95, available at barneys.com

Stroke of Genius

You already know the importance of a shave brush. Why then wouldn’t you want the best? Enter this silvertip choice by Baxter of California. Made with primo badger hair, it blows any alternative out of the water.

$22, available at macys.com

The Finisher

Keep ingrowns at bay without drying out your face by ditching your standard aftershave splash for a balm, like this one by Anthony, which can tone post-shave skin without the help of alcohol.

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