Philips Lumea Essential BRI861 Review

Lady using the Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential IPL on her lips

Philips Lumea BRI861/00 Review Summary

This is a great IPL device for those who want to focus on leg hair and are on a budget. Without any fancy add-ons, this straightforward model from the Phillips Lumea range sees up to 75% hair reduction in the first four treatments.

Not bad at all.

If you’re happy with a corded device and don’t want to necessarily treat your face or bikini line, this is an excellent IPL device to start with.

At such a great price, it’s also good for anybody wanting to try IPL without spending a lot of money.

The Good

  • thumbs-o-up
    Very affordable
  • thumbs-o-up
    Neat and smooth curves
  • thumbs-o-up
    Corded so you don’t have to worry about recharging

The Bad

  • thumbs-o-down
    Lacks targeted facial and bikini attachments
  • thumbs-o-down
    Cord isn’t very long so might get in the way
  • thumbs-o-down
    Not as effective as the BRI950/00 or BRI956/00 models

In Depth Review

Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential IPL Controls

While Philips has released a range of new IPL devices, the BRI861/00 is an ideal product for those who simply can’t commit to the higher priced devices.

Not sure if IPL is for you? This is a perfect entry-level Lumea.

Philips has been leading the home IPL movement since inception and the Lumea range is definitely up there with the best.

What does the Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential come with?

  • check
    1x Lumea Essential IPL device
  • check
    1x Power adaptor
  • check
    1x User manual

Straightforward and easy to use

The Lumea Essential is one of Phillips’ most basic models.

Corded and with no separate attachments, the Essential is ideal for beginners, those on a budget or those who want to give IPL a try without committing to a bigger purchase.

Efficient and effective

The BRI861/00 gives you up to 75% hair reduction after just 4 twice-weekly treatments. This gives you a fast impression of how effective IPL will be for you.

While this model isn’t as effective as the BRI956/00 or the BRI950/00 (which both offer up to 92% hair reduction in 3 treatments) - it does come in at a lower price.

Unlike other brands, Phillips’ IPL devices have no replacement parts to buy. They last for many years with no hidden costs.

One item, no fuss

Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential IPL Attachment

The biggest difference between this model and the others in the BRI range is simplicity.

This model has no attachments or extra bits and bobs. With a 3.2cm light window, it’s capable of treating legs, arms and stomach with ease. It’s just plug and go!

The other BRI models come with attachments for other body parts (such as face, underarms and bikini line) as well as having the choice of corded or cordless.

However, you can use this Lumea Essential on your face and underarms as well, the window simply isn’t as targeted as it is on the IPL devices with specific attachments.

If you mainly want to treat your legs and don’t mind plugging in, this BRI861/00 is a bargain!

Using the Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential IPL on legs
Removing hair from the underarm with a Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential IPL machine
Using the Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential IPL on the bikini line

Is it for me?

  • check
    No attachments: This can make life simpler. You don’t have to switch out attachments or look after extra bits.
  • check
    Corded: For those who will always use their Lumea at home, a corded version is usually fine.
  • check
    Up to 75% hair reduction: While this Essential model isn’t as effective as the latest models, it is still excellent. If you want to save yourself some money and are happy to wait longer to see the same results, this is an IPL device at a rock bottom price.
  • check
    No replacement parts: Unlike other brands, Phillips’ IPL devices have no replacement parts to buy. They last for many years with no hidden costs.
8/10
Our Score

Philips Lumea Essential BRI861

Summary
Review Date
Reviewed Item
Philips BRI861/00 Lumea Essential IPL Hair Regrowth Prevention
Author Rating
41star1star1star1stargray