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If you haven't heard of the Braun Silk Expert Pro 5, you're probs living under a rock. The super hyped laser hair removal gadget has received over 72.8 million views on TikTok, with users describing it as "life changing." But a newer, more tech-y version of the cult-favorite device, called the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL, has recently hit shelves, and it's the level-up we never knew we needed.
Since our team absolutely adored the OG version (read the review here!), we had no other option but to test out the new and improved version. And as someone with course, dark hair and fair skin who has never tried a laser hair removal device—nor has the $$$ for it—I thought I'd be the perf candidate to take the i·expert for a spin.
After weeks of testing, here's my in-depth review of the device and the honest truth on whether or not it's worth the whopping $600 price tag.
What makes the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL unique
Unlike the Silk Expert Pro 5, the new version syncs with a downloadable app via Bluetooth/WiFi to guide users through the entire hair removal process and track their progress. After you set up the device (more on how to do this below), you can coordinate your treatment plan. During setup, you'll choose your skin tone, which areas you want to treat, how dense your hair is, and how fast you want to see results depending on your skin sensitivity. The app then crafts a personalized plan and sends weekly reminders for device use. Each week, it prompts you to provide updates on your hair's appearance and feel, ensuring you stay on track to achieve your hair removal goals by the end of your sessions.
Every time you use the Braun device, it provides real-time feedback to ensure you're using it correctly, making it especially user-friendly for beginners. Whether you've missed a spot, attached the wrong device head, used the device for too short a duration, or applied too much flash power, the app immediately notifies you and offers guidance on how to make the necessary adjustments for proper use.
Aside from the innovative tech, this device is also super sleek, featuring a white and rose gold design. The minimalist look is only further enhanced by the two small buttons on the front face, which makes it look nicer (and *way* easier to master). Although the device requires an electrical outlet for use, it has a super long cord. It def has some weight to it, but the ergonomically-designed shape ensures a comfortable fit in the palm of your hand.
How to use the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL
The Braun Skin i-expert Smart IPL uses intense pulsed light (aka IPL), a form of light therapy, to effectively remove unwanted body hair. These light pulses induce a resting phase in targeted hairs, which causes them to fall out. With regular sessions, you'll notice a reduction in growth and your body hair will become more sparse.
Sound super intense? Don't worry, I was also intimidated at first, but it really couldn't be easier to use. After connecting to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, it guides you through a simple process: scanning your skin, performing a few test flashes, and setting up your first treatment plan.
Once you're ready to use it, shave any existing hair, launch the session on the app, and simply follow the instructions for placing the tool's window on your skin. Just hit the button whenever you want it to flash. For bigger areas like your legs, keep the button pressed down and smoothly slide the device for a steady stream of pulses. The app will prompt you to repeat the routine weekly for four to 12 weeks, and then you can ease into a maintenance routine of about once every two months.
Does the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL actually work?
I chose to treat my armpits during my testing session. I have super coarse hair that typically requires a shave every time I shower, and the fact that I haven't shaved my armpits once since my first session is saying a lot.
While I've only been able to perform three weeks worth of treatments—I have eight treatments in total to complete—I'm already seeing some pretty major results. There are def a few hairs still popping through (you can see 'em in the photo), but they've grown back so slowly. I'm pretty positive that after five more sessions, I won't have to shave for a suuuper long time—and I'm so freaking happy about it!
Does the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL hurt?
Aside from cost, pain was one of the main reasons I put off laser hair removal for so long. But let me assure you it was not an issue. Thanks to the customizable treatment plan on the app, you can choose a lower flash power if you have a low pain tolerance (this is what I did). Just be mindful not to linger in one spot too long during your treatment, as the flashes may start to sting a bit. Make sure to glide the device evenly across the treatment area.
While some people mention a slight tingling sensation after their treatments (lasting about an hour), I never experienced that with this device. If anything, it just leaves my skin feeling a bit dry, so I like to finish off with a bit of lotion when I'm done.
Is the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL worth the money?
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The bottom line: Should you buy theBraun Skin i·expert Smart IPL?
If you're willing to spend the $600 and dedicate the time to perform your own treatments, I think the Braun Skin i·expert Smart IPL is well worth the money. Not only is it super innovative, but all of its add-ons make it incredibly easy to use—especially if you're a first-timer like me—and track your progress. Most importantly, it really does work and reduce body hair growth for a fraction of the price of in-office treatments. It's truly a homebody's dream tool.
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