Braun IPL 2025 Showdown: Pro 5 vs Pro 3 vs Skin i·expert Smart: Full Comparison & Reviews

What are the most popular Braun IPL hair removal devices?

Here are the most popular Braun IPL hair removal devices:

• Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL

Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL: Alternative to Laser Hair Removal with 4 Caps and Vanity Case, PL5347

$429.99

$349.99 - FLASH SALE

https://us.braun.com/en-us/female-hair-removal/ipls/silk-expert-pro-5-pl5347

Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL: Alternative to Laser Hair Removal with 2 Caps and Leather Pouch, PL5157

$379.99

https://us.braun.com/en-us/female-hair-removal/ipls/silk-expert-pro-5-pl5157

• Braun Silk·expert Pro 3 IPL

Braun Silk·expert Pro 3 – IPL for Women and Men, At-Home Hair Removal System

$249.99

$199.99 - FLASH SALE

https://us.braun.com/en-us/female-hair-removal/ipls/silk-expert-pro-3-pl3020

• Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL

Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL: At Home Alternative to Laser Hair Removal with 4 Caps and Vanity Case, PL7387

$599.99

$479.99 - FLASH SALE

https://us.braun.com/en-us/female-hair-removal/ipl/skin-i-expert-ipl-pl7387

Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL: At Home Alternative to Laser Hair Removal with 3 Caps and Leather Pouch, PL7243

$499.99

https://us.braun.com/en-us/female-hair-removal/ipl/skin-i-expert-ipl-pl7243

Silk·expert Pro 5, Pro 3, and Skin i·expert Smart - Which Suits You?

A quick look at the differences between the 3 well-regarded epilators

Editor's review: Silk·expert Pro 5, Pro 3, and Skin i·expert Smart - Which One Reigns Supreme?

1️⃣ Best Budget Option → Silk·expert Pro 3

2️⃣ Best Mid-Range Performer → Silk·expert Pro 5

3️⃣ Best Premium Smart IPL → Skin i·expert Smart

My number one choice is Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL!

(braun.com ($349.99 sale) - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)

❤️ As a beauty junkie who’s tested way too many IPL devices (RIP my wallet), I’ll admit—my heart belongs to the Ulike Air 3 (ulike.com ($209 sale) - Get Up To 10% Cash Back). But when it comes to Braun, the Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL is the undisputed queen. Sorry, Pro 3 and Skin i·expert Smart… this one’s in a league of its own. Here’s why it’s my holy grail:

1. It’s Blazing Fast (Goodbye, Hour-Long Sessions!)

I’m impatient. The Pro 5’s 2.5x faster treatment speed means I can zap my legs in under 5 minutes—faster than scrolling through TikTok! Older IPLs felt like a chore, but this? I actually stick to my routine.

2. Zero Pain, All Gain (Even on Bikini Lines!)

I’ve endured painful salon lasers (red face, clenched fists). But the Pro 5’s 10 intensity levels + SensoAdapt™ tech auto-adjusts to my skin tone. Translation: My sensitive areas feel nothing. Gentle mode = happy skin.

3. It Works on Stubborn Hair (PCOS Warriors, Rejoice!)

As someone with hormonal hair growth, I needed proof—not promises. After 4 weeks, my dark chin hairs grew patchy; by Week 8, they’d ghosted me. (Cue happy dance!) Most IPLs fail here, but Braun’s 3J/cm² energy delivers.

4. No More “Oops, I Missed a Spot”

The glide mode lets me slide the device like a razor (no awkward stamping). Plus, the Smart SkinProtect sensor ensures I never flash over tattoos or moles. Safety and convenience? Sold.

5. The Best Long-Term Investment

Yes, it’s pricier than the Pro 3—but unlimited flashes mean no cartridge refills. My Pro 5 has outlasted two cheaper IPLs already. Cost per zap? Pennies. 

Pro Tip: It’s on sale now! 

Original Price: $429.99

Sale Price: $349.99 (Save $80!)

Extra Savings: I snagged $20 cashback via Extrabux.com (Braun’s been partnering with them for up to 8% cashback). Don’t miss this deal!

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Details

Braun Pro 5 vs. Pro 3 vs. Skin i·expert Smart: Tests and Reviews

#1. Braun Silk·expert Pro 3 – Best Budget Pick

Key Features

3 intensity levels (simple controls)

SkinPro 2.0 sensor for safety (auto-adjusts to skin tone)

Suitable for women & men (except facial hair for men)

300,000 flashes (long-lasting)

100 flashes per minute (good for small areas)

Clinically proven for long-term hair reduction

Pros & Cons

✅ Affordable (~$200)

✅ Easy to use (great for beginners)

✅ Safe for sensitive skin

❌ No attachment heads (less precision)

Fewer intensity settings

❌ Slower treatment time

Who Should Buy It?

First-time IPL users

Those on a budget

People targeting smaller areas (legs, underarms)

Price: 249.99 199.99

#2. Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 – Best Mid-Range Performer

Key Features

10 intensity levels (more customization)

4 attachment heads (wide, precision, standard)

Smart SkinProtect sensor (99.6% no irritation)

2.5x faster than Pro 3

Cordless use (rechargeable)

Pros & Cons

✅ Faster treatment (great for full-body use)

✅ More power settings

✅ More precise (bikini, face, legs)

✅ Clinically proven: 95% hair reduction in 1 month

❌ No app integration

❌ More expensive than Pro 3

Who Should Buy It?

Those who want faster, more powerful treatments

Users with thick or stubborn hair (PCOS-friendly)

People who don’t need smart features

Price: 429.99  349.99

#3. Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL – Best Premium Choice

Key Features

Smart app integration (personalized treatment plans)

AI-powered skin adaptation (SensoAdapt™)

4 smart-recognition heads (face, bikini, body)

Real-time tracking & reminders

3 comfort modes (Standard, Sensitive, Extra Sensitive)

Pros & Cons

✅ Most advanced Braun IPL

✅ Best for stubborn hair (PCOS, hormonal hair growth)

✅ Salon-like guidance at home

❌ Most expensive (~$480)

❌ App required for full functionality

Who Should Buy It?

Tech-savvy users who want app-guided treatments

Those who prefer salon-like precision

People willing to invest in long-term hair reduction

Price: 599.99 479.99

Braun Pro 5 vs. Pro 3 vs. Skin i·expert Smart: Effectiveness & Results

#1. Braun Silk·expert Pro 3 IPL: 

Promises up to 1 year of smooth skin and visible hair reduction in 3 treatments when used as recommended. While the timeline for visible results is a bit longer compared to the Pro 5, users still report noticeable hair thinning and reduced shaving frequency after a few weeks of use.

#2. Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL: 

Clinically proven to offer up to 95% hair reduction in just 1 month. It claims visible results in as little as 2 sessions and can provide users with 2 years of smooth skin with consistent use. This is a pretty impressive claim, and many users back it up, reporting significant hair reduction within 4 - 12 weeks.

#3. Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL: 

Boasts the fastest results, with up to 95% hair reduction in 1 month, and visible results from the very first use. It aims to give users 2 years of salon - like smooth skin, making it a top - performer in terms of effectiveness.

Braun Pro 5 vs. Pro 3 vs. Skin i·expert Smart: Real User Experiences & Reviews

#1. Braun Silk·expert Pro 3 IPL: 

Positive Feedback (Majority of Reviews)

✅ Affordable but effective (thins hair in 3-6 weeks).

✅ SkinPro 2.0 tech auto-adjusts to skin tone.

✅ 2 sensitive modes + fast flashes (100/min) for quick sessions.

✅ Great for legs/underarms/bikini line – Some users stayed smooth for a year!

Negative Feedback (Minority of Reviews)

❌ Wish it had more intensity settings.

❌ Slightly slower than Pro 5 (no glide mode).

❌ Setup can be tricky – Instructions lack detail on pre-treatment prep (avoid tweezing!).

#2. Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL: 

Positive Feedback (Majority of Reviews)

✅ Highly Effective – Most users saw significant hair reduction in 4-12 weeks.

✅ Long-Lasting Results – Many reported months of smooth skin with maintenance.

✅ Painless/Gentle – Compared to waxing/laser, users found it much less painful.

✅ Great for PCOS/Thick Hair – Users with hormonal hair growth saw dramatic improvements.

✅ Time-Saving – No more frequent shaving/waxing; some stopped shaving entirely.

✅ Super fast – Full-body treatment in ~10 mins/week (2.5x quicker than older models).

✅ 4 attachments (legs, face, bikini, underarms) for precision.

Negative Feedback (Minority of Reviews)

❌ No Results for Some – A few users (e.g., light/blonde hair) saw little to no change (needs melanin to work).

❌ Requires Consistency – Must use weekly for 2-3 months for best results.

❌ Not for Dark/Tanned Skin (risk of burns) – Works best on light-to-medium skin with dark hair.

❌ One User Reported Device Failure – A rare complaint about malfunction.

#3. Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL: 

Positive Feedback (Majority of Reviews)

✅ Fast & Effective – Many saw visible results in 2-5 sessions (vs. salon laser).

✅ Smart App Guidance – Personalized reminders & real-time tracking prevent missed spots.

✅ Painless & Safe – Most users felt only a warm sensation, no irritation.

✅ Better Than Older Models – Users upgrading from Braun Pro 5 reported faster results.

✅ Great for Stubborn Hair – PCOS/thick hair users saw significant reduction.

✅ 3 comfort modes + SensoAdapt™ + 4 smart attachments for precision.

Negative Feedback (Minority of Reviews)

❌ Most expensive of the three.

❌ App Not Available in Some Regions (e.g., Saudi Arabia).

❌ Requires Consistency – Must follow 12-week plan for best results.

❌ Not for Blonde/Gray Hair or Dark Skin (works best on dark hair + light/medium skin).

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

✔ Choose the Braun Silk·expert Pro 3 If…

You’re new to IPL and want an affordable, no-frills device.

You don’t need extra attachments or high-speed flashes.

✔ Choose the Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 If…

You want faster, more precise treatments with multiple attachments.

You prefer more intensity settings but don’t need an app.

✔ Choose the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL If…

You want the most advanced, app-guided experience.

You’re willing to invest more for AI-powered adjustments and real-time tracking.

All three devices are FDA-cleared, clinically proven, and effective for long-term hair reduction. Your choice depends on budget, desired features, and whether you want smart app integration.

My number one choice is Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL!

(braun.com ($349.99 sale) - Get Up To 8% Cash Back)

FAQs

What is the principle of IPL hair removal?

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal works by emitting broadband pulsed light. The light is absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicle, which generates heat and destroys the hair follicle, thereby inhibiting hair growth.

Are these devices suitable for all skin and hair types?

These devices are suitable for light to dark skin tones. They are most effective on dark body hairs and are not suitable for light - colored hairs such as light blond, red, gray, or white hairs.

What are the differences in features?

Braun Silk - expert Pro 5 IPL: It has 400,000 flashes, 10 energy levels, and 3 comfort modes (normal, sensitive, extra - sensitive). It comes with a precision head and a wide head in some versions.

Braun Silk - expert Pro 3 IPL: It has 300,000 flashes, 3 energy levels, and 2 comfort modes (normal, sensitive). It also has a precision head for small - area treatment.

Braun Skin i - expert Smart IPL: It is the world's first smart IPL with features such as smart head recognition and real - time coverage tracking. It has 3 skin comfort levels and connects to an app via Bluetooth for personalized treatment plans.

What are the differences in treatment effects?

Braun Silk - expert Pro 5 IPL: It claims visible hair reduction in just four weeks, lasting up to six months.

Braun Silk - expert Pro 3 IPL: It ensures permanent hair reduction in twelve weeks for up to three months.

Braun Skin i - expert Smart IPL: It can achieve up to 1.5 years of smooth skin with visible results in just two uses. (Individual results may vary).

What are the differences in treatment speed?

Braun Silk - expert Pro 5 IPL: Its flash rate is 0.5 seconds per flash, which is faster and more suitable for people with a busy schedule.

Braun Silk - expert Pro 3 IPL: Its flash rate is 0.6 seconds per flash.

Braun Skin i - expert Smart IPL: It is the fastest IPL, capable of a full - body treatment in just 10 minutes a week.

Silk·expert Pro 5 vs. Pro 3 vs. Skin i·expert Smart - Which One is Right for You?

If you're on a budget: The Braun Silk·expert Pro 3 IPL is the way to go. It offers effective hair removal, a user - friendly design, and a good set of features at an affordable price. It's perfect for those who want to try at - home IPL without spending a fortune.

For those seeking a balance of features and price: The Braun Silk·expert Pro 5 IPL is a great choice. It has advanced features like the Smart SkinProtect Sensor, multiple treatment heads, and fast treatment times, all while being more affordable than the Smart IPL. It's ideal for those with dark hair and light/medium skin who want long - term hair reduction.

Tech - lovers and those wanting the best results: The Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL is the top pick. Its smart features, real - time tracking, and personalized treatment plans take at - home hair removal to the next level. If you don't mind the higher price and rely on technology to guide you, this is the device for you.

How to use these devices correctly?

First, shave the treatment area before using the device. Then, select the appropriate mode and energy level according to your skin type and sensitivity. Place the device flat on the skin and move it in a gliding or stamping motion as required. Make sure the sensor on the device is in full contact with the skin to ensure accurate detection of skin tone and proper operation of the device.

How often should these devices be used?

In the initial treatment stage, it is usually recommended to use them once a week. After the hair growth is significantly reduced, you can switch to a maintenance stage and use them as needed, usually once a month.

Do these devices require maintenance?

These devices generally do not require special maintenance. However, it is necessary to keep them clean and dry, and avoid dropping or colliding with them to prevent damage. At the same time, it is necessary to regularly check whether the power cord and other components are in good condition.

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