If you’ve read our review of the Gillette 3001 you may already know why we’ve selected this Braun Gillette 5001 as our favorite of all the permanent hair removal devices available today.
We were actually close to naming the 3001 our favorite hair removal device until we saw this upgraded version. So, the 5001 is basically our original favorite…only more so!
It works faster than the 3001, treating an entire lower leg in about 8 minutes (the 3001 takes about 10 minutes to do the same job).
It also beats the 3001 in terms of durability. Whereas the 3001 is only capable of about 250,000 flashes before dying, this one should hit 300,000.
Do you need that many flashes? Well, that depends entirely on how you intend to use the machine.
Skin Tone
Instead of accidentally burning yourself as you move from a fair area to one with more pigmentation (yes, the opposite of how sunburn works), or having to stop to change the settings, this device allows you to continue your hair treatment without worrying about it.
Like the 3001, this model contains the proprietary Senso Adapt sensor that adjusts intensity levels based on your skin color. The sensor checks your skin tone 80 times per second and makes the necessary changes whenever it detects a change in pigmentation.
If you prefer to set the level yourself, you will be pleased to know that, with 8 levels, this has the most settings of all reviewed machines.
This is also one of only three home devices that claim to work on medium-brown skin. Are you of a caramel complexion? Well, this should help you achieve the results you desire without risking skin irritation and even minor burns in the process. You should use the device at its most gentle setting, though, and may require a few extra treatments for smooth results.
Permanent Hair Removal?
Although, at one point, advertisements claimed that it only works for 120,000 flashes, the company has assured consumers that this product actually contains 300,000 flashes, making it perfect for a lifetime of use.
A lifetime? Isn’t this permanent? Well, it’s as permanent as you can get, but IPL is never really a 100% thing. There are no laser or IPL hair removal products that will eliminate hair for the rest of your life. Whether it’s due to hormone fluctuations or just the body’s natural ability to repair itself, some of your hair will eventually grow back.
Its 300,000 flashes should be enough to provide you with adequate treatment for your face, legs, underarms, or chest and back for the rest of your life.
Pros
- It works on medium-brown skin without damaging it or missing hairs.
- Has a total of 8 intensity settings
- The Senso Adapt sensor changes light levels as you move from one area of skin to another based on your skin tone.
- Weighs 2.1 pounds and offers good ergonomics, making it easy to handle.
Cons
- Will not work on blonde, red, or white hair (though this limitation is not uncommon).
- If for any reason 300,000 flashes aren't enough, you cannot buy replacement cartridges.
