Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL Hair Removal, PL5157

IPL targets the pigment in hair, so results depend on both your skin and your hair. Braun's chart shows the device suits light to medium-dark skin tones and is not suitable for very dark skin. It works on natural blonde to black body hair; Braun says it is least suitable on very light blonde, red, gray or white hair, which has less melanin to absorb the light.

Braun recommends treating each area once a week for 4 to 12 weeks, then touching up as needed. A full-body session, covering legs, underarms, bikini and upper lip, takes about 10 minutes.

Legs, arms, underarms, the bikini and intimate area, and the face below the cheekbones, such as the upper lip, chin and jawline. Keep it away from the eyes. Braun says men can use it on the body too.

Yes. Shave the area with the included Venus razor before each session, so the light reaches the hair root instead of the hair above the skin.

Braun says most users find it nearly painless, often describing a mild tingling or warmth that many get used to over time. The sensitive and extra sensitive modes lower the intensity for delicate areas.

No. Braun says no safety glasses are needed: the device has an integrated UV filter and a skin contact sensor, and it only flashes when it is in full contact with your skin.

Braun says not to use it over tattoos or tattooed makeup, dark spots, birthmarks, moles, warts or dermal fillers, and never near the eyes.

The Silk·expert Pro 5 PL5157 device, a standard cap, a face precision head, a Venus razor (model may vary) and a leather zip pouch. It is corded and runs plugged into an outlet, so there is no battery to charge.