Braun Smart IPL PL7249 vs Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147
We compare the Braun Smart IPL PL7249 and the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147 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 Smart IPL PL7249 | Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 7.5/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 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 | Braun |
How It Works and Results
Braun Smart IPL PL7249
It works by using IPL for at-home hair removal, with the goal of reducing hair regrowth over time rather than removing hair instantly. The Braun is designed for facial use, and it targets hair follicles with repeated sessions. After treatment, the skin may feel smoother temporarily, but regrowth can still occur because IPL hair reduction is gradual, not permanent. Consistency matters, as new hairs can enter later stages of the growth cycle and require further exposure. Results typically develop across multiple rounds, with some people seeing fewer visible hairs and slower regrowth, while others may require more sessions than expected.
Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147
The Braun's Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147 uses IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) to target hair at the root, with the aim of achieving long-term reduction rather than instant removal. It is designed for repeated use over scheduled sessions, because hair grows in cycles and not every hair strand is in the same stage at the same time. Each treatment delivers flashes to the chosen area, and hair response typically develops gradually, including some shedding and longer gaps between regrowth. Results depend on consistent use and the body area treated, and progress can start unevenly. Effects may diminish over time, which means later top-up sessions can be needed.
Skin Tone and Hair Colour Suitability
Braun Smart IPL PL7249
IPL results on the IPL hair removal device can depend on skin tone and hair colour. In general, IPL performs best with high contrast, when darker hair is present on lighter skin, because pigment absorbs light more readily. For lighter, grey, or red hair, results are often weaker due to less pigment for the light to target. Very dark skin tones may have reduced effectiveness or require extra caution because absorbed energy can increase the risk of irritation. A patch test should be carried out first. Avoid the eyes, broken or irritated skin, tattoos, moles, tanned skin and the genitals. IPL is a cosmetic product designed for long-term hair reduction, not permanent removal. A doctor should be consulted before use during pregnancy, when taking medication, or when there is an existing skin condition.
Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147
Skin tone and hair colour compatibility determine how effectively an IPL device such as the IPL hair removal device works, because IPL targets pigment in the hair rather than weakening growth in the same way for all users. Best results are typically seen with dark hair on light-to-medium skin, where there is sufficient contrast for the light to focus on melanin. Very light blonde, grey, red, or white hair often reflects too much light for reliable results. Very tanned skin can reduce effectiveness and may raise skin comfort concerns. A patch test on a small area helps confirm suitability, and anyone who is pregnant, taking medication, or has an existing skin condition should speak to a doctor before use.
Intensity Levels and Flashes
Braun Smart IPL PL7249
Intensity levels and the number of flashes matter because they determine how strong the light treatment is and how evenly it is delivered. For the Braun, intensity control is central. Flash output affects workflow since more flashes can cover more skin area per session, while fewer flashes may require longer passes. Users should begin at a comfortable level and increase only if the skin responds well, as sensitivity varies. Consistent spacing during each flash helps reduce streaks, but uneven movement can still lead to patchy results.
Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147
Intensity levels and flashes should be selected to balance effective results with skin comfort, because IPL power needs to match the user's skin and hair response. The Braun supports starting at a lower intensity, then increasing gradually only if the skin feels comfortable and no unusual irritation appears. This staged approach matters because darker or thicker hair usually needs more energy, while lighter skin areas can react more strongly. A patch test on a small area should be carried out first, and consistent responses should be confirmed before moving on to larger treatment zones.
Body Areas and Attachments
Braun Smart IPL PL7249
The IPL hair removal device is described as an IPL hair removal appliance for women, intended particularly for the facial area. It includes 3 attachments, plus a mini face shaver for added flexibility. The mini face shaver provides an alternative option for finer facial grooming needs, which can help when hair texture differs.
Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147
To get good results with the IPL hair removal device, users need to choose the right body area and use the correct attachment, since IPL treatment can vary across areas of skin and hair growth. The device is designed for both broad treatment and more targeted work, so two heads are supplied. Session planning is best handled by section, such as underarms, legs, or bikini areas, then applying the matching head for each zone. Using the wrong attachment may lead to uneven coverage, and results may vary.
Comfort, Speed and Safety
Braun Smart IPL PL7249
Comfort, speed, and safety matter most with at-home hair removal devices, and this model is set up for facial use. The Braun Smart IPL PL7249 includes 3 heads and a mini face shaver, which supports routine prep and touch-ups without extra tools. Comfort depends on how firmly the device is applied, and a learning curve is expected during the first sessions. Speed varies because facial coverage is smaller, while treatment progress depends on consistent use.
Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147
Comfort, speed, and safety matter because IPL outcomes depend on using the device consistently, and the selected body area can affect how the skin feels during treatment. The Braun Silk Expert Pro is designed for practical home sessions, using two heads to switch coverage with minimal interruption. Comfort depends on applying the device evenly with steady skin contact and choosing settings that feel manageable, as increased warmth or sensitivity can occur. Speed improves when sessions follow a consistent side-by-side pattern rather than overlapping randomly. Safety checks include cleaning the skin beforehand, avoiding irritated areas, and stopping if burning or significant discomfort appears.
Who Is This IPL Device For?
Braun Smart IPL PL7249
This IPL device is designed for people who want at-home hair removal focused on the face rather than full-body treatment. The Braun is aimed at users looking for an alternative to laser hair removal, using a compact approach for women's facial areas. It comes with three heads and a mini face shaver, allowing users to switch between IPL sessions and shaving during skin preparation. The device also provides guidance via a free app, using a Skin i·Expert feature with an exclusive app. People wanting body-wide coverage may find this model's intended focus too narrow.
Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147
Who this IPL device is for, and who should avoid it The Braun suits people who want at-home IPL for long-term hair reduction and are comfortable with repeat sessions over time, because results depend on consistent use. It comes with two heads, which makes it practical for treating different body areas. The model is positioned as a long-life option, with "400,000 shots" stated in the product title, which may appeal to those who want an extended-use device. Anyone expecting instant, one-time hair removal should reconsider, since IPL is designed for long-term reduction rather than immediate removal. This IPL device should be avoided if you have a medical condition affecting your skin, if your skin is recently tanned, or if you are unsure about suitability, because IPL can worsen irritation. It should not be used on dark skin or on light, grey, red or white hair, as IPL targets pigment in darker hair on lighter-to-medium skin. Avoid using it on the eyes, broken or irritated skin, over tattoos or moles, on genitals, and on tanned skin. A patch test is advisable, and a doctor should be consulted if you are pregnant, taking medication, or have a skin condition.
Braun Smart IPL PL7249: pros
- Designed for face
- 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 PL5147: 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 Smart IPL PL7249 (our score 7.5/10) - A practical ipl hair removal device for gradual, long-lasting hair reduction - used correctly and consistently. The Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5147 is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.