Braun IPL Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5387 Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 7.9/10
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 (PL5387) is an at-home hair removal device designed as an alternative to professional laser hair removal. It includes a wide head for larger areas and two precision heads for smaller zones, plus a pouch and a Venus razor. The main benefit is versatility across different body areas, while results require consistent use rather than being instant.
Key specifications
| Item | Included Use guidance |
|---|---|
| Pouch | Yes Store and access |
| Wide head | Yes Larger areas |
| Precision heads | 2 Target smaller zones |
| Venus razor | Yes Shaving aid |
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
After setting up this IPL hair removal device Pro 5 (PL5387) with the included wide head or one of the precision heads, it works by delivering light-based pulses to hair. The treatment is applied at the skin surface, and the light is intended to target hair follicles to support gradual reduction over time. Results build with repeat sessions rather than instantly. People typically notice fewer hairs and finer regrowth after several treatments. Effectiveness can vary depending on individual hair growth cycles and the consistency of use, so missed sessions may slow progress.
Skin Tone and Hair Colour Suitability
Even though the Braun Pro 5 (PL5387) is designed for at-home hair removal, effective results depend on skin tone and hair colour. IPL targets pigment, so people with darker hair and lighter skin typically see more visible outcomes, because the contrast helps energy reach the hair follicle. If hair is very light, grey, or white, the treatment may be less effective since there is less pigment available. Darker skin tones can also be harder to treat with IPL, because reduced contrast can increase the chance of poor results. The IPL hair removal device does not specify exact shade ranges for PL5387.
Intensity Levels and Flashes
Intensity levels and flashes matter because they determine how strongly the IPL delivers energy during each pulse, which affects both comfort and results. Intensity is selected in response to skin feedback, with lower settings used to reduce the risk of irritation. Each flash is a controlled pulse, so consistent spacing and coverage is important, particularly when treating larger areas using the wide head. Higher settings may increase effectiveness for hair reduction, but they may also raise sensitivity, so stopping if discomfort builds is sensible.
Body Areas and Attachments
Body areas and attachments determine how flexible the Braun is at home, because different zones need different head shapes and handling. The set includes a wide head and two precision heads, plus a Venus razor and a pouch for storage. Users can switch to the wide head for larger areas such as legs, whereas the precision heads suit smaller or more detailed spots, including around contours. For best results, each attachment should be checked before use, cleaned after sessions and stored safely in the pouch between uses. Coverage is practical, although overall effectiveness still depends on skin and hair characteristics.
Comfort, Speed and Safety
Comfort, speed and safety are usually the deciding factors for at-home IPL use, and the IPL hair removal device is designed for different body zones using different heads. A wide head and two precision heads are available, supporting more accurate coverage, particularly on smaller or more detailed areas. For each session, start on clean, dry skin, then move the device steadily over the target area without pressing hard. Safety depends on correct fit and consistent skin contact, and any irritation should prompt a pause. Speed varies by body zone and the amount of coverage needed.
Who Is This IPL Device For?
Who is the Braun IPL Silk Expert best suited for? It is best suited to people who want an at-home hair removal option as an alternative to laser hair removal, particularly those who prefer to manage treatment themselves. A wider head can make it more convenient for larger areas, while the inclusion of two precision heads supports targeting smaller, more detailed spots. The set feel aligns with a starter approach, with a pouch included and a Venus razor also provided. People with very sensitive skin should check suitability first, and anyone who is pregnant, on medication, or has a skin condition should seek medical advice before use. IPL is a cosmetic method that targets pigment in darker hair on light-to-medium skin for long-term hair reduction, and it does not work on very dark skin or on light, grey, red or white hair. Avoid use around the eyes, on broken or irritated skin, over tattoos, moles or the genitals, and do not use on tanned skin. A patch test is recommended.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where can people buy the Braun in the UK, and what should they check before ordering? They can look at The IPL hair removal device's own website, Amazon UK, John Lewis, Currys, AO, Argos, Boots, and Superdrug, as well as online marketplaces that list the exact model number PL5387. Before purchase, confirm the box contents match the listing title, including a pouch, wide head, 2 precision heads, and a Venus razor. They should also check the colour option (white/gold), as variants exist. When buying online, verify the returns policy and delivery times, and ensure the listing is for "PL5387" rather than a comparable substitute model.
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.