Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387 vs Philips Lumea 9900 Series
We compare the Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387 and the Philips Lumea 9900 Series across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387 | Philips Lumea 9900 Series | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| Best for | Long-term hair reduction at home, on light-to-medium skin with dark hair | Long-term hair reduction at home, on light-to-medium skin with dark hair |
| Not ideal 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 | 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 |
| Brand | Braun | Philips |
How It Works and Results
Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387
The Braun is a home pulsed light (IPL) hair removal device, designed for use with a free app, and it includes multiple heads for different hair-removal zones. It delivers pulsed light to hair in the growth stage, so results build gradually over several weeks rather than instantly. Progress can be monitored via the companion app where it is supported as stated. The multiple heads help reduce the need to swap tools when covering different body areas, although touch-ups may still be required, since long-term reduction varies.
Philips Lumea 9900 Series
In-home IPL uses light pulses to target hair at the root area, helping hair growth slow over time, while the skin remains the main surface being treated. This IPL hair removal device delivers these pulses through its attachments for body, face, bikini and underarms, and it can be used corded or cordless. Results are typically gradual rather than immediate, with repeated sessions over time to encourage thinning and fewer regrowth cycles. Hair growth varies between individuals, so response can differ and some hair may take longer to reduce.
Skin Tone and Hair Colour Suitability
Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387
Skin tone and hair colour suitability depends on how an at-home pulsed light (IPL) device works. IPL targets pigment in hair, but it is also affected by the surrounding skin. The most reliable results are seen when there is clear contrast, with darker, thicker hair generally responding better than very light, grey, or red hair. Skin that is too tanned or very dark can absorb more energy from the surrounding area, increasing the risk of poor results, so following the product guidance is essential.
Philips Lumea 9900 Series
Skin tone and hair colour suitability matters because IPL works by targeting hair using light, so results depend on how clearly the device can distinguish hair pigment from skin. The Philips includes SenseIQ and SkinAI Technology, which indicates the device assesses skin and hair characteristics before use. Because IPL performs best when there is a clear contrast between hair colour and skin colour, dark hair on lighter skin typically offers more reliable outcomes, while very light hair and very tanned skin can reduce effectiveness. Practical guidance is to follow the device's suitability cues for each attachment area and only use the areas that match the stated skin and hair assumptions.
Intensity Levels and Flashes
Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387
Typically, an IPL device like the IPL hair removal device works by delivering a series of light flashes. The results depend on selecting an intensity level matched to a person's skin and hair combination. Before treatment, the user selects an intensity level, then triggers flashes over the target areas in a steady pattern, allowing overlap only as needed. Higher settings can increase effectiveness, but they also increase the risk of irritation, particularly on more sensitive skin. If discomfort occurs, the intensity should be reduced and the flashes should continue with more care. The included app can help guide settings.
Philips Lumea 9900 Series
After considering skin tone and hair colour fit, the next factor to understand is how intensity levels and flashes are used during treatment. The IPL hair removal device supports IPL hair removal by delivering flashes in a controlled session. The device is used at an intensity level, then flashes are applied repeatedly across the target area, moving methodically to cover the area evenly. Intensity is adjusted during use based on skin response to help reduce the risk of overexposure, provided correct contact is maintained and sessions are spaced appropriately between uses.
Body Areas and Attachments
Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387
For home IPL use, the Braun is designed to treat multiple body areas, which is one of its most practical benefits. It comes with 4 heads, allowing the user to switch attachments depending on where hair removal is planned. The package includes a case and a Venus razor, which can support preparation and storage between sessions. For body-area coverage, the buyer should still check skin suitability for each zone. Overall, the multiple attachments improve flexibility, but device specifics for each body area are not given.
Philips Lumea 9900 Series
For covering different body areas, the Philips includes four attachments for body, face, bikini and underarms. Each attachment is designed to target a specific region rather than using one head for all areas. The body attachment is intended for larger areas, while the face and bikini attachments are made for more delicate zones. The underarms attachment helps organise treatment for that area. The device supports both corded and cordless use, with corded operation allowing continuous sessions and cordless use making routines in the bathroom or bedroom easier. Results depend on correct placement.
Comfort, Speed and Safety
Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387
Even though it is designed for at-home IPL, comfort depends on how the user prepares and how sensitive their skin is. The IPL hair removal device is intended for home hair removal and uses pulsed light, so sensations will vary by person and body area. The set includes 4 heads and a case, which supports switching tools without much setup. Safety relies on following the prep steps, protecting the eyes, and stopping if irritation increases, as the presence of safeguards such as sensors is not stated.
Philips Lumea 9900 Series
Comfort, speed, and safety matter most with an at-home IPL device like the IPL hair removal device, because the experience depends on how the attachments are used on each area. For body, face, bikini, and underarms, comfort relies on correct placement and gentle contact, since uneven contact can feel harsher and reduce consistency. Speed improves when use is split into small sections and the pace stays steady, but cordless operation should not lead to rushed movements. Safety depends on following the skin guidance during use and stopping if irritation appears. Corded and cordless modes support flexibility, yet settings and technique still need to match individual skin sensitivity.
Who Is This IPL Device For?
Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387
Who is the Braun Skin best suited for? The Braun is designed for people who want to carry out at-home hair removal using pulsed light, and who are comfortable following app-guided instructions. With 4 heads and a Venus razor included, it suits users who want to cover multiple body areas, selecting the appropriate head for each area. It is a practical option for those preferring a home routine over salon sessions, because IPL relies on consistent use over time to achieve long-term hair reduction rather than instant, shaving-like results. Who should think twice before buying? This device is a poor fit if you have sensitive skin, because IPL can cause irritation during use. It is also not suitable if you expect permanent hair removal, as IPL provides long-term reduction instead. IPL is intended to target hair pigment in darker hair on light-to-medium skin, and it does not work on very dark skin and may be ineffective on light, grey, red or white hair. Avoid use around the eyes, on broken or irritated skin, over tattoos, moles and other skin markings, and on tanned skin and the genitals. A patch test is recommended, and a doctor should be consulted if pregnant, on medication, or if you have a skin condition.
Philips Lumea 9900 Series
The Philips Lumea 9900 Series is for people who want an at-home alternative to salon hair removal and are willing to use IPL consistently over time. It suits users who want to treat multiple areas, as the set includes attachments for body, face, bikini and underarms. Flexible routines are supported because it can be used both corded and cordless, depending on preference and setting. It may not fit anyone seeking immediate, one-off results, as IPL works gradually. Compatibility matters.
Braun Skin I·Expert PL7387: 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
Philips Lumea 9900 Series: pros
- Designed for body, face, bikini, underarms
- Cordless for easy handling
- 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 Skin I·Expert PL7387 (our score 7.8/10) - A practical ipl hair removal device for gradual, long-lasting hair reduction - used correctly and consistently. The Philips Lumea 9900 Series is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.