You have a big event coming up, or maybe you are simply tired of shaving every few days. You want smooth skin that lasts for weeks, not hours. Epilation offers that freedom, but choosing the right device can feel overwhelming. In this Braun Silk Epil 9 review, we break down two top models from Braun: the standard Silk-épil 9 and the Flex version with a 360-degree head. We evaluate their features, comfort, and performance so you can decide which one fits your needs. If you are also exploring other beauty tools, check out our solaris laboratories visibright nano current facial massager review for a different approach to skin care.
Pros
- Long-lasting smoothness for up to a month
- Catches short hairs that wax cannot remove
- Comfortable wet and dry epilation with less pain
- Versatile attachments for different hair removal needs
- German engineering ensures durability and performance
Cons
- May cause initial discomfort for first-time epilator users
- Requires regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance
- Higher price point compared to basic epilators or razors
The Braun Silk-épil 9 is a high-performance epilator designed for women who want long-lasting smooth skin without the hassle of frequent shaving or salon waxing. It removes hairs as short as 0.5mm, giving you up to a month of hair-free results from the comfort of your home. This model is especially suited for those with active lifestyles or sensitive skin who prefer a chemical-free hair removal method.
Standout features include the wide pivoting head that effortlessly follows your body's contours, making it effective even on tricky areas like knees and underarms. The epilator catches 3x shorter hairs than wax, so you get a closer, longer-lasting result. The wet and dry capability lets you use it in the bath or shower, where warm water helps reduce discomfort, and the massage roller cap further minimizes pain sensation.
Build quality is excellent, with the device being made in Germany and designed to last for years. The precision handle ensures a secure grip even when wet, and the included shaver head and trimmer comb add versatility for trimming or shaving when needed. The compact pouch and cleaning brush make storage and maintenance simple.
Potential drawbacks include the initial pain that first-time epilator users may experience, though most adapt quickly. The device also requires regular cleaning to prevent clogging, and its price is higher than basic epilators or razors. However, the long-term savings on salon visits may offset the cost.
Overall, the Braun Silk-épil 9 is a top-tier choice for anyone seeking an efficient, long-lasting hair removal solution. Its combination of advanced features, robust design, and versatile attachments makes it a worthwhile investment for smooth, confident skin.
Pros
- Effectively removes short hairs that wax and razors miss
- Flexible head adapts to body contours for thorough coverage
- Wet and dry versatility allows comfortable use in the shower
- Comes with multiple accessories for different grooming needs
- Long-lasting smoothness of up to one month between uses
Cons
- Epilation can still cause discomfort for first-time or sensitive users, despite the massage roller cap
- At over one pound, the device is heavier than some competing epilators
- Premium price point may be steep for those new to epilation
The Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex is a premium epilator designed for women who want long-lasting smooth skin at home. It is ideal for those who are tired of frequent shaving or the hassle of waxing appointments.
Its 360 flex head is the world's first fully flexible design, allowing it to hug every contour and catch hairs as short as 0.5mm. In real-world use, this means fewer missed patches and noticeably smoother results that last up to a month.
The Tinted Gold finish and precision handle give it a luxurious feel, while the massage roller cap helps reduce pain sensation. It is made in Germany and feels robust, with a weight that suggests solid construction.
The main downsides are the learning curve for beginners and the price. Epilation can be uncomfortable initially, and the device's weight might take some getting used to. However, the included accessories and wet/dry capability add significant value.
If you are looking for a versatile, high-performance epilator that can handle sensitive areas with minimal fuss, the Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex is an excellent choice. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about at-home hair removal.
Brand: Braun
Model: SES9-041 3D
Color: Tinted Gold
Weight: 1.12 pounds
Included: SE9 3D Flex Epilator, trimmer comb, shaver head, skin contact cap, cleaning brush, pouch
Usage: Wet and dry
Country of Origin: Germany
Pros
- Ultra-close shave with minimal irritation
- Adaptive power for different beard densities
- Automatic cleaning and charging station saves time
- 100% waterproof for versatile wet/dry use
- Made in Germany with 5-year warranty
Cons
- High price point may not suit all budgets
- Cleaning liquid refills add ongoing cost
- 60-minute battery runtime is adequate but not exceptional for extended travel
The Braun Series 9 PRO+ Electric Shaver (model 9660CCPS) is a premium wet/dry foil razor designed for men who demand exceptional closeness and skin comfort. It is ideal for those with sensitive skin or heavy beard growth who want a versatile shaver that can handle both wet and dry conditions, including in the shower.
The 5+1 foil technology combines two gliding foils for a near-perfect closeness with specialized blades to capture flat and multidirectional hairs. The Pro SensoAdapt system reads beard density 300 times per second, adjusting power for effortless efficiency even on a 7-day beard. This adaptive power ensures consistent results across different facial areas.
Made in Germany, the shaver boasts long-lasting build quality and a sleek black finish. The included 6-in-1 SmartCare Center automates cleaning and charging, using Braun cleaning liquid that is 10 times more effective than water. The built-in Precision ProTrimmer offers added versatility for detailing sideburns or mustaches.
At its price point, the Series 9 PRO+ is a significant investment. Additionally, the cleaning liquid cartridges need periodic replacement, adding to the ongoing cost. The 60-minute cordless runtime is adequate for most, but some users may prefer longer battery life for extended travel.
Overall, the Braun Series 9 PRO+ delivers a superior shaving experience with innovative technology and a comprehensive grooming kit. If you are willing to invest in a high-end shaver that prioritizes closeness, comfort, and convenience, this model is an excellent choice.
Color: Black
Dimensions: 7.67 x 4.56 x 9.44 inches
Weight: 2.66 pounds
Product Group: Beauty
Binding: Health and Beauty
Pros
- Clinically proven effectiveness with up to 95% hair reduction
- Convenient at-home use with quick 10-minute treatments
- Gentle on skin with automatic safety adjustments
- Versatile for full body including face and pubic area
- Cost-effective in the long run compared to salon laser
Cons
- High initial investment compared to other hair removal methods
- Requires consistent use over 3 months for best results
- Not suitable for very dark skin tones or light blond/red hair due to IPL technology limitations
The Braun Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5100 is an at-home IPL hair removal device designed for both women and men. It aims to provide salon-level results from the privacy of your home, with a commitment to just two sessions per month for three months. This device is ideal for anyone looking to reduce hair growth long-term without the recurring costs of professional treatments.
The standout feature of this device is its impressive performance: clinical studies show up to 95% hair reduction on lower legs within one month, following the recommended regimen. The Smart Flex Head ensures 100% contact with the skin, even on curved or tricky areas like knees and the bikini line. A full-body treatment takes only 10 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Design and build quality are solid, with a sleek white body and a comfortable grip. The device weighs 1.82 pounds and comes with a pouch for storage. The automatic skin tone sensor is a key safety feature, adjusting the flash intensity to prevent burns, even in hard-to-see areas. It is dermatologically and gynecologically approved, and the built-in safety features mean no glasses are needed.
However, there are some drawbacks. The upfront cost is high, though it saves money over time. Results require consistency and patience, and the technology is not effective on very dark skin or light blonde, red, or gray hair. Additionally, at the time of this review, there are no customer reviews available, so real-world user feedback is limited.
Overall, the Braun Silk·Expert Pro 5 IPL5100 is a reliable and effective at-home IPL device for those with suitable skin and hair types. Its convenience, speed, and clinically proven results make it a strong investment for permanent hair reduction. If you are willing to commit to the regimen, it can deliver salon-quality outcomes at a fraction of the cost.
Color: White
Size: 1 Count (Pack of 1)
Weight: 1.82 Pounds
Product Group: Beauty
Binding: Health and Beauty
Included: Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 device, 1 standard head, pouch
Pros
- Fast treatment time: full body in just 10 minutes
- Low frequency: only 2 sessions per month needed
- Gentle on skin with automatic skin tone sensor
- Versatile: includes two heads for different body areas
- Complete kit: comes with pouch and Venus razor
Cons
- Requires a consistent 3-month regimen for optimal results
- Effectiveness may vary based on hair and skin color (best for dark hair on lighter skin)
- Higher upfront investment compared to temporary methods like shaving or waxing
The Braun Silk·Expert Pro 5 is an at-home IPL device that offers permanent hair reduction for both women and men. It is designed for those who want salon-quality results without the recurring expense of professional treatments. This device is ideal for anyone looking to reduce hair on legs, arms, underarms, bikini, face, chest, back, and pubic areas.
With up to 95% hair reduction in just one month and visible results from the second use, this device delivers impressive performance. The full-body treatment takes only 10 minutes, and you only need two sessions per month for three months. The SensoAdapt skin tone sensor automatically adjusts each flash for safe and effective treatment.
The device comes with two heads: a standard head for larger areas and a precision head for smaller, sensitive areas. It is dermatologically and gynecologically approved, and the UV filter makes it eye-safe without protective glasses. The included pouch and Venus razor add convenience.
However, the device requires a consistent three-month regimen to achieve optimal results, and effectiveness may vary based on hair and skin color. It works best on dark hair and lighter skin tones. Additionally, the upfront cost is higher than other at-home methods, but it saves money over time compared to salon visits.
Overall, the Braun Silk·Expert Pro 5 is a powerful and convenient IPL solution for permanent hair reduction at home. Its fast treatment time and low maintenance schedule make it a great investment for those committed to long-term hair removal. If you have suitable skin and hair type, this device can deliver excellent results.
Color: White
Dimensions: 10.87 x 3.84 x 0.1 inches
Weight: 2.46 Pounds
Product Group: Beauty
Binding: Health and Beauty
Buying Guide
Epilation Comfort and Pain Management
Epilation pulls hair from the root, so comfort is a top concern. Both Braun models offer wet and dry use, letting you epilate in the bath or shower to reduce discomfort. The standard Silk-épil 9 includes a massage roller cap that helps distract from the pulling sensation. The Flex model adds a Smart Touch feature that lets you adjust pressure between power and gentle modes. For sensitive areas like underarms or bikini line, the Flex version may feel more controlled. If you are new to epilation, start with a lower speed and use warm water.
Head Flexibility and Reach
The biggest difference between these two models is the head design. The standard Silk-épil 9 has a wide pivoting head that adapts to body contours like knees and elbows. The Flex model features a 360-degree fully flex head that moves in every direction, making it easier to catch hairs on tricky spots like the back of the knee or underarm. If you often miss hairs with a standard epilator, the Flex head can reduce the need for touch-ups. Both models catch hairs as short as 0.5 mm, which wax cannot grab.
Attachments and Versatility
Both epilators come with a shaver head and a trimmer comb, so you can switch between epilation, shaving, and trimming. The standard Silk-épil 9 includes a precision handle for a secure grip, especially when wet. The Flex model adds a skin contact cap for extra comfort during use. If you want a device that handles multiple hair removal methods, either model works, but the Flex offers more customization. For a different type of facial tool, see our nurse jamie uplift massaging beauty roller review.
Build Quality and Longevity
Braun is known for German engineering, and both epilators are built to last for years. The Flex model is slightly more premium with its 3D flex head and gold tinted finish. The standard model is a reliable workhorse that has been a bestseller for years. Both are waterproof and easy to clean with the included brush. If you plan to use the epilator frequently, investing in the Flex model may pay off in the long run. For more beauty tool comparisons, visit our Comparisons page.
Final Thoughts
After evaluating both models, we recommend the Braun Epilator Silk-épil 9, Hair Removal Device if you want a proven, comfortable epilator with a pivoting head and massage roller at a more accessible price point. For those who need maximum flexibility and gentleness on sensitive areas, the Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex Epilator is the better choice with its 360-degree head and Smart Touch feature. Whichever you choose, you will enjoy up to a month of smooth skin without the hassle of daily shaving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Braun Silk Epil 9 last?
Both models are built to last for years with proper care. Braun manufactures them in Germany, and many users report using their epilators for over five years. Regular cleaning and occasional replacement of the epilation head can extend the lifespan.
Can I use the Braun Silk Epil 9 on my face?
Yes, you can use the epilator on facial hair, but Braun recommends using the included shaver head or trimmer comb for sensitive areas. The epilator head itself is designed for body hair; for facial use, start on a low speed and test a small area first.
Does the Braun Silk Epil 9 work on coarse hair?
Yes, it works well on coarse hair because the tweezers can grip even short hairs (0.5 mm). The Flex model’s 360-degree head may be especially helpful for catching thick hairs in hard-to-reach places. For best results, exfoliate before epilation to prevent ingrown hairs.
Is the Braun Silk Epil 9 better than waxing?
Epilation offers similar long-lasting results to waxing but without the mess or need for hair regrowth. You can epilate any time, and the device catches hairs that wax often misses. Many users find epilation less painful over time as they get used to the sensation. For more tips on hair removal, read our blog.
