Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5347 Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 9.3/10
Best for: Long-term hair reduction at home, on light-to-medium skin with dark hair
Not for: Very dark skin, or light/grey/red hair - IPL needs dark hair on lighter skin to work, and it's a cosmetic device, not permanent removal or a medical treatment
Bottom line: A practical ipl hair removal device for gradual, long-lasting hair reduction - used correctly and consistently.
The Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 (PL5347) is an at-home IPL hair removal system, intended as an alternative to salon treatments for people who prefer a non-salon approach. For buyers searching for this IPL hair removal device, it offers a straightforward home workflow, but outcomes can be less consistent than salon laser for some users, and visibility reduces over time rather than delivering permanent removal.
Pros
- Long-term hair reduction from home, cheaper than salon courses over time
Cons
- Only suits light-to-medium skin with dark hair - not dark skin or light/grey/red hair
- Gives long-term reduction, not instant or total permanent removal
- Needs a full course plus top-ups, and consistent use over weeks
How It Works and Results
IPL works by using flashes of light to target pigment in the hair, and the body's natural process then helps reduce regrowth over time. The Braun's IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5347 delivers these light pulses to the treatment area, so hair growth can slow between sessions. Results are not instant, because follicles take time to respond and existing hair cycles continue briefly. A course schedule is typically followed, then maintenance as needed, since some regrowth can occur. Over repeated treatments, hairs often become finer and less frequent. Effectiveness depends on how consistently sessions are done and on individual hair growth patterns, although specifics are not stated.
Skin Tone and Hair Colour Suitability
Skin tone and hair colour matter because IPL targets pigment in the hair, while the surrounding skin must have less pigment for safer, more effective treatment. The IPL hair removal device's IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5347 is best suited to darker hair and lighter skin, as the contrast helps the device distinguish the hair follicle area. Very light hair, grey hair, red hair and white hair often contain too little pigment, so results may be limited. Very tanned skin or naturally deeper, highly pigmented skin can increase risk and reduce performance. A skin and hair check is recommended before use.
Intensity Levels and Flashes
Most users will select an intensity level based on how the skin feels during the test flash, because higher settings can increase effectiveness while also increasing the chance of irritation. The Braun is used by choosing an intensity level, then firing short flashes in small treatment rows to keep coverage consistent. After each session, the skin is checked for redness or sensitivity, and adjustments are made before continuing. If discomfort increases, a lower intensity level is usually safer; very low levels may feel milder but can show slower change.
Body Areas and Attachments
When planning at-home hair removal, it helps to match the attachment and technique to each body area, because hair density, skin texture and sensitivity vary across the body. The IPL hair removal device is used by selecting the appropriate area treatment approach rather than applying one method everywhere. Sessions are commonly separated for underarms, arms, legs and bikini areas, since smaller and more curved zones can be harder to cover evenly. The device can be used across multiple areas, with careful positioning to maintain skin contact and to minimise overlapping flashes. Results can vary by area.
Comfort, Speed and Safety
Comfort, speed and safety matter because at-home IPL sessions depend on how the skin feels during use and how consistently the device is applied across different body areas. The Braun IPL Silk Expert is built for visible hair reduction at home, with a focus on maintaining correct skin contact, using short sessions, and moving the device in a controlled way. A user should check the skin is clean and dry, then guide the device methodically with overlapping passes, pausing if irritation appears. Speed improves when skin preparation and attachment use are consistent across areas, while safety depends on following the user instructions for each treatment zone. Mild sensations can occur during use, but persistent discomfort should stop use.
Who Is This IPL Device For?
The Braun is for people who want an at-home IPL system for long-term hair reduction on visible hair, rather than booking laser appointments. It suits those who can follow a consistent schedule of repeated sessions over time, because results depend on ongoing use. The device is also suitable for people willing to read and follow the safety guidance before each use, since correct prep can affect effectiveness. For someone looking for a quick, one-off hair removal result, an IPL routine like this may feel less suitable. It is a cosmetic product rather than a medical treatment.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where can someone buy the IPL hair removal device in the UK, and what should they check before purchasing? It is typically available through major UK retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Currys, AO, and Argos, along with Plus Boots and Superdrug. Before buying, confirm the exact model code, PL5347, and the listed colour option (White/Gold). It is also important to verify the box contents and that it is a home IPL hair removal system, intended as an alternative to laser hair removal. Before completing a purchase, check what is included, as extras and conditions can vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Braun actually work?
Used regularly and correctly, IPL like the IPL hair removal device can give long-lasting hair reduction - hair grows back finer and sparser over a course of treatments, with top-ups to maintain it. It works best on light-to-medium skin with dark hair, and results vary from person to person. It's a cosmetic device, not a one-off permanent removal.
Is IPL permanent hair removal?
IPL gives permanent hair REDUCTION rather than total permanent removal - most people see far less, finer regrowth after a full course, then use occasional top-up sessions to keep it that way. Calling it "permanent removal" overstates it; "long-term reduction" is more accurate.
Who can use this IPL hair removal device - does it work on all skin tones?
IPL works by targeting the pigment in dark hair, so it suits light-to-medium skin with dark hair best. It does NOT work on very dark skin (risk of burns) or on light, grey, red or white hair (no pigment to target). Always check the brand's skin-tone chart and do a patch test first.
Does the Braun hurt?
Most people feel a warm, mild snapping sensation rather than real pain. Start on a lower intensity and build up. If it's painful, lower the setting - and never use it on irritated, broken or recently tanned skin.
How long until you see results with the Braun IPL Silk Expert?
Most people do a treatment every week or two for the first 4-12 sessions, with visible reduction usually after several sessions, then move to occasional top-ups. Consistency matters - skipping sessions slows progress. Results and timelines vary by person.
Is the IPL hair removal device safe to use, and where should you avoid?
Used per the instructions on suitable skin, IPL is generally well tolerated, but it's a cosmetic device - not a medical treatment. Avoid the eyes and the area around them, broken or irritated skin, tattoos and moles, and don't use on the genitals. Patch test first, and if you're pregnant, on certain medications, or have a skin condition, check with a doctor. This is general guidance, not medical advice.