IPL is Intense Pulse Light, a form of long term hair removal which is becoming increasingly more popular due to the ability to do treatments at home and the cost benefit against having laser treatments in a salon. IPL is different to laser in terms of treatment area size, intensity, pain levels and safety. A laser generally has a smaller treatment area compared to an IPL device and emits a single wavelength of light. IPL devices produce a wide range of wavelengths (colours) of light to produce a single white flash of light. IPL works by applying gentle pulses of light and heat to the hair follicle, causing the hair to shed and stunting regrowth. IPL reduces the chance of ingrown hairs, shaving rash and is a cost-effective option in the long run compared to many alternatives.

If you’re not familiar with IPL devices, it might be tricky to distinguish the differences between the ranges. In particular, the popular Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 and Silk-expert Pro 3. They are similar in look and feel, and are powered by SkinPro (SensoAdapt)™ technology which means they both continuously read your skin tone and adapt the flash intensity accordingly. Plus, they come with a built-in UV filter, so you can feel safe and confident using your long term hair removal device at home. Both devices are impressive in their own way and could easily become your next favourite hair-removal tool. But first, let’s compare their features.

FLASHES
Have you heard of the term “number of flashes” for an IPL device? This simply refers to the longevity of the product. At 400,000 flashes, the Pro 5 will give you an equivalent of 22 years of treatments without having to worry about flashes running out¹. The Pro 3 has 300,000 flashes which is roughly 16 years¹. Looking at the big picture, even though the Pro 3 has less flashes, it will still provide more than enough treatments to continue over the years.

Braun Silk-expert Pro 5 IPL Long Term Hair Removal

INTENSITY LEVELS & COMFORT MODES
The Pro 5 features a range of 10 intensity levels which capture a broad spectrum of skin tones, from light to dark. Alternatively, the Pro 3 has 3 intensity levels. It will still be suitable for a range of skin tones, however, the Pro 5 does have a higher power which indicates a longer-lasting smooth result. The higher power will allow you to spread out the time in between each treatment. In addition to the intensity levels, the Pro 5 has 3 comfort modes (normal, sensitive, extra sensitive), while the Pro 3 has 2 (normal and sensitive). If you have sensitive skin or you haven’t tried laser or an IPL before, you may like the idea of having the option of three modes so you can gently start and slowly increase.

Braun Silk-expert Pro 3 IPL Long Term Hair Removal

HAIR REDUCTION TIME
Braun’s Silk-expert Pro 3 ensures permanent hair reduction in twelve weeks for up to three months.² On the other hand, the Pro 5 claims visible hair reduction in just four weeks to last up to six months! ³ This is why the Pro 5 is considered the safest, fastest and most efficient IPL for permanent hair reduction. If you are time poor or a little impatient when it comes to seeing results, the Pro 5 is your go-to. However, if you are comfortable to take your time or are not quite ready for the investment, the Pro 3 is the device for you.

TREATMENT TIME & ATTACHMENTS
At this point you might be thinking they’re both great, but may be wondering how long it takes for each treatment. Both feature the “stamp and glide” mode, so unlike some other IPL units, you can glide the device along your skin without having to stamp, stop and start. This triggers more flashes for a faster treatment and makes it extremely efficient to cover larger areas like your legs. Both include a precision head which attaches to the head of the device to target smaller areas like your face and bikini line. The Pro 5 boasts a flash rate of 0.5 seconds per flash, while the Pro 3 claims 0.6 seconds per flash. While these are both incredibly fast flash rates, the extra 0.1/second per flash will add up when doing a full body treatment, so if you’re time poor, the Pro 5 is the way to go.

Overall, both are fantastic options, however, it will come down to personal preference, skin type, hair type and budget. If you want the best of the best without any compromise, the investment of the Pro 5 is hands down worth it. However, if you want an alternate option which is still a premium quality product and doesn’t break the bank, we don’t think you’ll be disappointed in the Pro 3. To help you choose, Braun also offers a 90 Day Money Back Guarantee on their IPLs. This means that you can purchase a Braun IPL from Shaver Shop and try it out, and if you’re unsatisfied for any reason, simply return the IPL to Braun for a refund on the purchase price (Terms & Conditions apply)*.

Shop the range here.

Always read the instructions and use only as directed. See in store for more details. Not suitable on red, light blonde, white/grey hair or very dark skin.

¹This is not a warranty for the lifetime of the device.
² If used per the recommended regimen, individual results may vary.
³ Assessed on lower leg, armpits & bikini, following the treatment schedule. Individual results may vary. Efficiency based on the combination of window size, speed and energy. Safety technology shared with Cyden.

*T&Cs valid until 30th June 2023.
Refund via EFT will only be provided once the Promoter receives: (1) the physical product with packaging/barcode identifying the SKU; (2) a clear purchase receipt showing the retailer, purchase date, product purchased and spend amount; (3); the Claim ID number associated with their online claim submission.
The refund does not include postage costs for the return of the Product.
Returns should be made to the below address and should reference the claim ID number:
For AU Returns:
P&G Money Back Guarantee
PO Box 606
EASTERN SUBURBS MC, NSW 2004
Refund is only valid if the claim is submitted within the below timeframe from the purchase date, the product was posted within 7 days of submission of the claim and if, in the opinion of the Promoter, the Product has been used in the recommended manner.
IPL Products - 90 days
No responsibility will be accepted for late, lost or misdirected mail - customers are encouraged to obtain a reference number when returning goods.
This offer is in addition to and does not replace your statutory rights and protections under Australian and New Zealand Consumer Law.
Allow 14 working days to receive the EFT payment after claim has been validated.

Customer is responsible for providing correct EFT information. Any customers providing invalid payment information will receive an email to update their details. Customer will have three months to provide valid payment information from the time of receiving this notification via email. If not corrected within this stipulated time the money back guarantee will be void.