Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137 Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.7/10
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 Silk-Expert Pro 5's Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137 is an at-home IPL hair removal option designed as an alternative to laser hair removal, and it is supplied with a pouch, a Venus razor, and a precision head. It is best treated as a convenient household step rather than a clinic replacement. Results depend on individual hair and skin, so long-term hair reduction varies, and the included accessories make it a practical starter rather than a guaranteed route to permanent smoothness for everyone.
Key specifications
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand/Model | Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137 |
| Product Type | At-home hair removal, IPL |
| Included | Pouch, Venus razor, precision head |
| Styling | White/gold |
| Claims | 2 Years of Smooth Skin |
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
This IPL hair removal device uses at-home IPL light to reduce unwanted hair growth, with results depending largely on consistent use and on individual hair and skin characteristics. The device is intended for home hair removal as an alternative to professional laser hair removal, so the process typically involves repeated treatment sessions over time. Each session delivers light pulses to the targeted area to weaken hair regrowth rather than remove every hair instantly. Gradual reduction in visible regrowth is commonly expected as treatments are completed, but missed sessions can slow progress and results vary.
Skin Tone and Hair Colour Suitability
At-home IPL results depend on completing repeat sessions and on whether the device's light can be matched to the user's skin tone and hair colour, because IPL targets pigment in the hair. For the Braun, suitability is best where hair pigment is clear and contrast is higher, since the aim is darker hair. The method is less effective when hair is very light, grey, or red. Skin tone also matters: darker skin contains more melanin, which can increase caution, so official compatibility guidance should be checked before starting.
Intensity Levels and Flashes
Intensity levels and flashes are how an IPL device controls the amount of light energy delivered to the skin. Because results depend on matching the setting to the user's skin tone and hair pigment, it is important to start conservatively. The IPL hair removal device allows intensity levels to be selected before starting, then delivers light in discrete flashes across the treatment area. A practical approach is to begin on a lower level, test on a small patch first, and increase only if the skin reaction is mild and comfortable. If the skin feels overly sensitive, the setting should be reduced, since higher energy also raises irritation risk.
Body Areas and Attachments
Once the right intensity level is chosen for comfort, the next step is deciding where and how to use the Braun on the body. The device is typically used on broad areas such as legs and arms, then on smaller zones such as underarms with a more careful setup. The Precision Head is intended for tighter spots where accuracy matters, such as around knees or elbows, while the main head suits larger surfaces. Coverage should be done in even passes, avoiding gaps and heavy overlap. Results vary by skin type and hair, so some areas may need repeated attention.
Comfort, Speed and Safety
Comfort, speed, and safety matter as much as hair removal results, and they depend largely on how the IPL hair removal device is set up and used. Before each session, the user checks that the skin is clean and dry, then selects the included precision head where needed. Sessions tend to feel more comfortable when the device is applied evenly, with gentle contact rather than pressing. Speed depends on the size of the body area, since shorter passes reduce pauses for re-positioning. Safety improves when the device is used only on suitable skin areas, and the session stops if irritation occurs.
Who Is This IPL Device For?
The Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 device suits people who want an at-home hair removal option that can serve as an alternative to laser hair removal, and who are willing to follow careful setup and use. It is designed for those who prefer a kit approach, with a pouch, a Venus razor, and a precision head in the box to support different grooming areas. It may be less ideal for users seeking instant results, as IPL typically requires consistent sessions to achieve gradual change and long-term reduction. Buyers should be comfortable using it on a schedule and preparing skin properly each time.
Where to Buy in the UK
Finding the Braun in the UK typically involves checking major retailers for in-stock units and verifying the exact model number before purchase, since availability can change and listings sometimes use similar names. It helps to browse multiple routes, including The IPL hair removal device's own store pages, large electronics or beauty retailers, and marketplace sellers with clear returns. When a listing matches, shoppers should confirm the title states The Braun 5 and includes the pouch, and that the Venus razor plus precision head are included. If key details or the colour White/Gold are missing, shoppers should skip the listing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the IPL hair removal device actually work?
Used regularly and correctly, IPL like this 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 the Braun - 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 Silk-Expert Pro 5 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 IPL hair removal device?
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 this 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.