Nothing says summer like an itsy-bitsy bikini—except perhaps an airy sundress or a pair of leg-baring linen shorts. As a result, effective hair removal becomes a priority for many women when the temperature spikes.

But getting rid of unwanted fuzz can feel like a total hassle. Shaving is affordable but has short-lived results; laser hair removal lasts much longer but is time-consuming, needs touch-ups (yes, even “permanent” hair removal requires follow-up appointments over the years!) and is expensive. What if you could get long-lasting salon-like smooth skin without leaving home? That’s the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5’s claim to fame.

By emitting intense pulsed light (IPL), the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 heats up the coloured pigment (a.k.a. melanin) in the hair to damage the root. Then, the hair follicle “goes to sleep.” The result is up to six months of salon-like smooth skin from your face down to your toes.

The Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 is unique because it’s the only IPL device with a SensoAdapt skin-tone sensor that reads the shade of your skin and adapts the power of each flash. That means you’ll get the right output every time, even if your legs are darker than your bikini line. It works best on light to medium skin tones with dark brown or black hair.

To use the Braun Pro 5, you need to start with a smooth surface. Shave, wax or epilate unwanted hair before using the device. And if root hair removal is more your vibe, Braun has a full line of epilators to choose from. Next, select the head size that suits the area you’ll be treating. Choose from three modes: normal, sensitive or extra-sensitive. Then, slowly drag the device along your skin in rows. It will flash up to every 0.5 seconds, which means fewer missed spots in less time. You can finish both lower legs in about five minutes. To see the first visible reduction of hair, treat the area once a week for four weeks.

A one time cost of $599.99, the Braun Pro 5 will give you salon-like treatment more affordable than multiple in-salon sessions, touch-up fees and transportation to and from appointments.

The PL5157 kit contains a standard cap for the underarms and legs and a precision cap for the face and bikini area. It also includes a Venus razor to prep your skin and a soft carrying pouch. To learn more and find a Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5157 IPL retailer, visit ca.braun.com.