Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124 vs Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137

By the Bare Silk editorial team · Updated 2026 · How we test & score

We compare the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124 and the Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137 across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.

vs

At a glance

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137
Our score9.0/108.7/10
Best forLong-term hair reduction at home, on light-to-medium skin with dark hairLong-term hair reduction at home, on light-to-medium skin with dark hair
Not ideal forVery 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 treatmentVery 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
BrandBraunBraun

How It Works and Results

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124

At-home IPL devices such as the Braun use light energy during treatment to target hair follicles, with the aim of slowing down regrowth over time rather than removing hair instantly. The device is used on chosen areas and repeated on a schedule, because hair follicles are not all in the same growth stage at once. With consistent use, results typically build gradually, with finer or less frequent regrowth. Outcomes vary, as hair growth cycles, skin reaction, and treatment consistency affect how effectively regrowth slows. Further maintenance sessions may be needed after improvement.

Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137

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

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124

Skin tone and hair colour suitability matters because IPL works best when light energy is absorbed by pigment in the hair. It targets dark hair on light-to-medium skin, so it does not work reliably on very light hair (including blond, red and grey tones) and it is not suitable for very dark skin tones due to safety risks such as burns. For the IPL hair removal device, the manufacturer's guidance is used to check whether the hair is dark enough and whether the skin tone falls within the usable range. Clearer results are typically associated with darker hair and lighter to medium skin tones. Very light blond, red or grey hair may not respond well, even with repeated sessions, and darker skin needs extra caution.

Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137

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

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124

Intensity levels and flashes are central because IPL controls the amount of light energy delivered to hair follicles, influencing both results and comfort. The Braun offers intensity levels, and each level adjusts the strength of the pulses so the treatment can be matched to skin response. During use, start on a lower setting and increase only if the skin remains comfortable. Treatments also need to be spaced as directed, because IPL works gradually. Using fewer, well-targeted flashes is safer than increasing intensity purely to speed up outcomes.

Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137

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

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124

Body-area coverage matters because IPL performance depends on using the correct attachment and following the device's intended use for each region. The IPL hair removal device is supplied with a Venus razor and a Precision head, so prep and targeting rely on attachments rather than one-size-fits-all use. For larger areas, a broader approach often improves consistent contact, whereas smaller or more detailed zones benefit from the Precision head to guide placement. Weaker coverage can reduce effectiveness, so mapping sessions, shaving beforehand, and keeping skin contact steady are important. This depends on proper preparation, since hair length control is required.

Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137

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

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124

Comfort, speed, and safety are closely linked when using the Braun Silk Expert Pro Pro 5 PL5124, because effective treatment depends on steady skin contact while moving across different body areas. The Precision Head and the Venus Razor help support smoother routines, but the IPL step still requires consistent contact and careful placement. For comfort, the device should be applied gently and moved methodically, since pressing harder can lead to uneven contact and weaker results. For speed, maintaining a consistent technique helps, but rushing can increase the risk of missing patches. Safety also relies on following area-by-area guidance, and avoiding use on irritated or unprepared skin.

Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137

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?

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124

Who is the Braun Pro 5 PL5124 for? It is designed for at-home IPL hair removal and is suitable for both women and men. The kit includes a Venus razor and a precision head, supporting routines that include general shaving plus more detailed areas. It may appeal as an alternative to laser hair removal for people who prefer IPL. IPL devices provide long-term reduction and suit darker hair on light-to-medium skin, so it may not be suitable for everyone depending on skin and hair characteristics. It is a cosmetic product, not a medical treatment; a patch test is recommended, and guidance from a doctor is advisable if pregnant, using medication, or with a skin condition. It is intended for use away from the eyes, broken or irritated skin, tattoos, moles, and genitals, and it should not be used on tanned skin.

Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137

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.

Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124: 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

Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137: 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

Our verdict

Our pick is the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124 (our score 9.0/10) - A practical ipl hair removal device for gradual, long-lasting hair reduction - used correctly and consistently. The Braun Silk-Expert Pro 5 PL5137 is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.