Smart IPL, Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5145
#4
Braun

Braun Smart IPL, Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5145

Rating

Model: PL5145
$299(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-01
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Product Overview

The Braun Smart IPL Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5145 is an at-home IPL hair removal device designed for both men and women. It promises permanent visible hair reduction with continued use. The device features a skin tone sensor that automatically adjusts the light intensity for safe and effective treatment. It includes multiple attachments for different body areas, a Venus razor, and a pouch for storage. It claims to deliver salon-quality results without the salon costs, offering up to 95% hair reduction in 1 month.

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Product Specifications

Light Source Type
IPL
Energy Level
-J/cm²
Spot Size
-cm²
Wavelength
-nm
Pulse Duration
-ms
Repetition Rate
-seconds
Lamp Lifetime
-flashes
Skin Tone Sensor
Yes
Treatment Modes
-
Power Source
Corded

Size & Weight

Weight
2.71 Pounds
Hight
11.02 inches
Width
7.8 inches
Depth
3.86 inches

Features

Skin Tone Detection Function

The device features a skin tone sensor that automatically adjusts the light intensity based on your skin tone. This ensures safe and effective treatment by preventing excessive light exposure for darker skin tones and optimizing treatment for lighter skin tones. This function allows for safer hair removal.

Attachment Head Function

The device comes with multiple attachment heads, including a standard head, a wide head, and two precision heads. These attachments allow for targeted treatment of different body areas, ensuring efficient and careful hair removal whether it is for sensitive areas like the face or wide areas like the legs.

Cooling Function

The product information does not mention a cooling function. Therefore, it is unlikely that the device has a built-in cooling mechanism to alleviate heat and pain during or after light irradiation. Users may need to take additional steps to cool the skin, such as using a cold compress.

Continuous Irradiation Function

The product description mentions fast flashes that get the job done quickly, suggesting that the device supports continuous irradiation. This function allows for efficient treatment of wide areas like the legs or arms by enabling continuous light pulses without manual triggering, significantly reducing treatment time.

Irradiation Level Adjustment Function

The device offers different intensity settings and two sensitive modes, allowing users to adjust the light intensity based on their skin sensitivity and comfort level. This feature is particularly useful for beginners, as they can start with a low level and gradually increase it while observing their skin's reaction.

Safety Sensor Function

The device is described as eye-safe and dermatologically and gynecologically approved, suggesting the presence of safety features that prevent accidental light exposure. While not explicitly stated, it is likely that the device has a sensor that prevents light irradiation unless the irradiation port is in full contact with the skin, preventing unintended irradiation.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

#4
Ranked #4 out of 100 products in Category
4.3
Overall Rating

The Braun Silk·Expert Pro 5 offers a balance of convenience and effectiveness for at-home IPL treatments. It's positioned as a mid-range option with good safety features and attachments. Durability should be good given Braun's reputation.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Technology
4.2
The Braun IPL uses standard IPL technology. It emits broad-spectrum light to target melanin in hair follicles. The device's effectiveness depends on consistent use and proper skin preparation. It is FDA-cleared and dermatologist-approved, ensuring a level of safety.
Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility
4.0
This IPL device is most effective on light to medium skin tones with darker hair. The contrast allows the light to target the hair follicle efficiently. It is not recommended for very dark skin tones or blonde, red, gray, or white hair due to the risk of ineffective treatment or adverse skin reactions.
Treatment Area Size and Speed
4.3
The device includes multiple attachments, including a wide head for larger areas and precision heads for smaller, curved areas. This allows for efficient treatment of various body parts. The flash speed is adequate for quick sessions, with full-body treatment possible in about 10 minutes.
Safety Features
4.5
The Braun IPL includes a skin tone sensor that automatically adjusts the light intensity. This feature enhances safety by preventing burns or pigmentation changes on darker skin. It is also gynecologically tested for intimate use, adding an extra layer of safety and confidence.
Ease of Use and Ergonomics
4.4
The device is designed for easy at-home use with simple controls and an intuitive interface. Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling during treatments. The corded power source provides consistent power without the need for charging, though it limits mobility.
Number of Flashes and Lamp Lifespan
4.0
The device's lamp lifetime is not specified, but IPL devices typically offer a high number of flashes for long-term use. The lack of replaceable lamp cartridges means the device becomes unusable once the flashes are depleted, which could be a limitation for some users.
Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.6
Braun is a reputable brand known for its quality personal care products. The device is backed by Procter & Gamble, a well-established manufacturer. This provides assurance of reliability and customer support, though specific warranty details should be checked.
Cost Performance
4.2
Priced at $299.94, the Braun IPL offers good value for its features and performance. It provides a cost-effective alternative to professional laser hair removal treatments. The initial investment is balanced by the long-term savings from avoiding salon visits.

Brand & Manufacturer Details

Braun
Braun is a well-known brand offering a range of beauty and personal care products, including IPL hair removal devices.

Key Highlights

  • Skin tone sensor for safety
  • Multiple attachments for different body areas
  • Fast treatment times
  • Reputable brand

Considerations

  • Results may vary
  • Requires consistent use for optimal results
  • Not suitable for all skin and hair types
  • Read instructions carefully before use

Recommended For

  • Individuals with light to medium skin tones and dark hair
  • Those seeking a convenient at-home hair removal solution
  • People who want long-term hair reduction

Not Recommended For

  • Individuals with dark skin tones
  • People with blonde, red, gray, or white hair
  • Those with very sensitive skin
  • none in particular

Suitable For

  • Regular treatments at home for legs, underarms, and bikini line
  • Maintaining hair reduction between professional treatments
  • Use in a comfortable and well-lit environment

Not Suitable For

  • Use on irritated or broken skin
  • Exposure to direct sunlight immediately after treatment
  • Use by individuals with incompatible skin and hair tones
  • none in particular

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.Is this IPL device really effective for permanent hair reduction?
A.The product claims up to 95% hair reduction in 1 month with continued use. Staff confirmation indicates that with proper skin preparation and consistent use (1-3 times per week), some users have seen slowed hair growth in about 1.5 months. However, individual results can vary, and some staff confirmation suggest minimal change even after several uses.
Q.Is this product safe to use at home without professional supervision?
A.The Braun Smart IPL is dermatologically and gynecologically approved and is designed for safe at-home use. It features a skin tone sensor that automatically adjusts the flash intensity. It is also considered eye-safe, so no glasses are needed. However, it's important to follow the instructions and use the device as directed.
Q.Can this IPL device be used on facial hair, and is it effective?
A.Braun IPL is safe and effective for women's facial hair removal, specifically on the upper lip, chin, and jawline. However, it should not be used near the eyes or on male beards, as it may lead to uneven results. Some staff confirmation indicates it may not be as effective for facial hair, particularly for patchy hair.
Q.How often do I need to use this device to see results?
A.For optimal results, it is recommended to use the device once a week for 4 to 12 weeks, with visible results after just 2 sessions. Touch-ups are recommended for maintenance to prevent regrowth.
Q.Is this product worth the investment, or is it too expensive?
A.Some staff confirmation indicates that the product is worth the money and works as expected. However, other staff confirmation suggests it may not work as well as hoped, especially considering the cost. The device aims to provide salon-like results without ongoing salon costs, but effectiveness can vary.
Q.What if the device stops working after a few months?
A.Some staff confirmation has reported issues with the device malfunctioning after a few months of use, such as flashes occurring very slowly. It's important to ensure the product is under warranty and to contact customer support if any issues arise.
Q.How does this product compare to professional laser treatments?
A.While this IPL device aims to provide long-lasting results similar to laser treatments, it is not completely permanent like professional laser. Some staff confirmation directly comparing this product to professional laser therapy suggests that this device may not be as effective, even with consistent use.
Q.I have coarse hair. Will this IPL device work for me?
A.The manufacturer states the device is effective for various hair types. One staff confirmation mentions it works great on more coarse and darker body hair. However, another staff confirmation with recommended skin tone and hair color expresses uncertainty about its effectiveness on coarse hair, suggesting results may vary.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Ranking

#1

Philips Beauty

Philips Lumea 9000 Series BRI984/03

$579(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-01

Salon-like hair removal at home with visible results in 2 sessions. SenseIQ technology and Lumea App included.

Light Source TypeIPLEnergy Level- J/cm²
Spot Size- cm²Wavelength- nm
Pulse Duration- msRepetition Rate- seconds
Lamp Lifetime- flashesSkin Tone SensorYes
Treatment Modes-Power SourceCorded Electric
Skin Tone Detection FunctionAttachment Head FunctionCooling FunctionContinuous Irradiation FunctionIrradiation Level Adjustment FunctionSafety Sensor Function
4.7Overall Rating
4.8IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Technology
4.7Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility
4.8Treatment Area Size and Speed
4.9Safety Features
4.7Ease of Use and Ergonomics
4.7Number of Flashes and Lamp Lifespan
4.8Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.0Cost Performance
#2

Braun

Smart IPL, Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5347

$429(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-01

At-home IPL device for permanent hair reduction. Skin tone sensor adjusts intensity. Easy and safe to use.

Light Source TypeIPLEnergy Level- J/cm²
Spot Size- cm²Wavelength- nm
Pulse Duration- msRepetition Rate- seconds
Lamp Lifetime- flashesSkin Tone SensorYes
Treatment ModesGlide, StampPower SourceCorded
Skin Tone Detection FunctionAttachment Head FunctionCooling FunctionContinuous Irradiation FunctionIrradiation Level Adjustment FunctionSafety Sensor Function
4.4Overall Rating
4.5IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Technology
4.5Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility
4.6Treatment Area Size and Speed
4.8Safety Features
4.4Ease of Use and Ergonomics
4.3Number of Flashes and Lamp Lifespan
4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.0Cost Performance
#3

Braun

Smart IPL, Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5157

$379(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-01

At-home IPL device for permanent hair reduction. Safe, effective, and easy to use for full body treatments.

Light Source TypeIPLEnergy Level5 J/cm²
Spot Size- cm²Wavelength- nm
Pulse Duration- msRepetition Rate- seconds
Lamp Lifetime- flashesSkin Tone SensorYes
Treatment Modes-Power SourceCorded
Skin Tone Detection FunctionAttachment Head FunctionCooling FunctionContinuous Irradiation FunctionIrradiation Level Adjustment FunctionSafety Sensor Function
4.4Overall Rating
4.5IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Technology
4.3Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility
4.2Treatment Area Size and Speed
4.8Safety Features
4.4Ease of Use and Ergonomics
4.0Number of Flashes and Lamp Lifespan
4.5Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.2Cost Performance
#4

Braun

Smart IPL, Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5145

$299(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-01

At-home IPL device for hair removal. Offers permanent hair reduction with skin tone sensor and multiple attachments.

Light Source TypeIPLEnergy Level- J/cm²
Spot Size- cm²Wavelength- nm
Pulse Duration- msRepetition Rate- seconds
Lamp Lifetime- flashesSkin Tone SensorYes
Treatment Modes-Power SourceCorded
Skin Tone Detection FunctionAttachment Head FunctionCooling FunctionContinuous Irradiation FunctionIrradiation Level Adjustment FunctionSafety Sensor Function
4.3Overall Rating
4.2IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Technology
4.0Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility
4.3Treatment Area Size and Speed
4.5Safety Features
4.4Ease of Use and Ergonomics
4.0Number of Flashes and Lamp Lifespan
4.6Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.2Cost Performance
#5

Ulike

Air 10 IPL Hair Removal Device

$305(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-09-01

Ulike Air 10 IPL hair removal device with ice cooling, dual lights, and SHR mode for effective hair reduction.

Light Source TypeIPLEnergy Level- J/cm²
Spot Size- cm²Wavelength- nm
Pulse Duration- msRepetition Rate- seconds
Lamp Lifetime- flashesSkin Tone SensorYes
Treatment ModesFast, Normal, High, SHRPower SourceCorded
Skin Tone Detection FunctionAttachment Head FunctionCooling FunctionContinuous Irradiation FunctionIrradiation Level Adjustment FunctionSafety Sensor Function
4.2Overall Rating
4.5IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Technology
4.3Skin Tone and Hair Color Compatibility
4.6Treatment Area Size and Speed
4.7Safety Features
4.4Ease of Use and Ergonomics
3.8Number of Flashes and Lamp Lifespan
3.0Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.1Cost Performance