Laser hair removal in Estonia — types, results, risks

Laser hair removal has grown fast in Estonia over the past 5 years. In 2026 more than 40% of the beauty clinics in the Ilusalong24.ee directory offer it. Contrary to popular belief it is not a case of “one visit and you are free” — it is a process that runs over several months. In this guide we look at how it works, who it suits and how to choose a technician.

How laser hair removal works

The laser emits a monochromatic beam of light that is absorbed by the melanin in the hair follicle. The light turns into heat and destroys the tissue that feeds hair growth (the papilla and the root area). Hair growth stops for good once enough sessions have been completed.

An important detail: the laser only sees hairs in the active phase (the anagen phase, ~20–30% of hairs at any one time). That is why several sessions are needed — each visit treats only some of the follicles.

Types of laser and how they differ

• Diode laser (808 nm): most Estonian clinics use this. Versatile — suitable for light and medium skin with dark hair. Devices: Soprano ICE, LightSheer Desire.
• Alexandrite (755 nm): faster and more effective on light skin with dark hair. Not suitable for darker skin — a high risk of burns.
• Nd:YAG (1064 nm): the only type that works safely on dark skin (skin types IV–VI). Less painful, less effective on light hair.
• IPL (not a laser): an intense pulsed light device. Broad-spectrum light — not monochromatic. Cheaper, but needs 50% more sessions to reach a comparable result.

Who laser hair removal suits

The ideal candidate:

• Light skin (Fitzpatrick I–III);
• Dark hair colour (brown, black);
• Has not tanned in the past 4 weeks;
• Is not taking medication that increases light sensitivity.

Grey, blond or red hair does not respond to the laser (there is no melanin). Those clients should consider an alternative (e.g. electrolysis).

Before the treatment

• 4 weeks before: no sunbathing and no self-tanner.
• 2 weeks before: no waxing, tweezing or epilating.
• 24 hours before: shave the area to be treated.
• On the day: arrive with no makeup or cosmetics on the area.

What happens during the session

1. Assessment of your skin type (the Fitzpatrick 1–6 scale).
2. Protective eyewear is fitted.
3. Numbing cream if requested (10 min to take effect).
4. A test shot on a small area (calibrating the energy).
5. Treatment area by area, 10–60 minutes.
6. Application of cooling gel or an anti-inflammatory cream.

After the treatment

• Mild redness and a “sunburn-like” feeling for 2–24 h.
• The hairs start shedding within 7–14 days.
• Avoid for 24 h: sauna, solarium, hot baths.
• Avoid for 2 weeks: sunbathing and self-tanning.
• Use SPF 50+ on the treated area for 4 weeks.

Risks and setbacks

• Burns or blisters: caused by a misjudged skin type or too high an energy setting. Rare in the hands of an experienced technician.
• Hyperpigmentation: dark skin can be left with patches. This is exactly why the skin type must be assessed precisely.
• Paradoxical stimulation of hair growth: very rare, occasionally seen in the facial area in women due to their hormonal background.

How to choose a clinic

• Check the Health Board register of activity licences (a medical licence is required).
• Ask for the device model and year of manufacture (newer ones are safer).
• A qualified technician: at least one brand training certificate.
• The technician asks for your skin type on the Fitzpatrick scale — an essential step.

Where to go next

• Laser hair removal prices in Estonia 2026
• How to choose a beauty clinic
• All laser hair removal providers in Estonia
• Beauty clinics in Tallinn — in Tartu
• The full directory of beauty clinics

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