Lasers in Skin

In this episode, Lisa and Mike delve into the intriguing topic of 'jumping hairs', a phenomenon observed during laser hair removal treatments. Inspired by a message from a listener in Germany, Nicole, they discuss the misconception that the rapid ejection of hairs post-laser treatment indicates treatment efficacy. Lisa and Mike clarify that this effect, often referred to as 'popping hairs', is primarily due to steam formation in the hair follicles rather than a sign of successful follicle damage. They emphasise that while visual reactions like swollen follicles or erythema can be appealing, they do not necessarily correlate with treatment...

In today's episode, Lisa and Mike turn up the energy - literally! They dive into the fascinating world of lasers and IPL treatments, unpacking the science behind spot size, fluence, depth of penetration, and wavelengths. When Emma, a curious Level 4 student, asks about how energy delivery changes with different spot sizes, Lisa and Mike fire back with laughs, analogies, and plenty of light-based wisdom. Along the way, they break down why fluence matters, how scattering shapes results, and why pre-cooling can be the secret to a pain-free zap.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Fluence, defined as energy per...

In a fascinating deviation from their usual topic, Lisa and Mike delve deep into the world of experimental physics and astrophysics in this episode. Mike tackles a range of mind-bending questions sourced by Lisa from ChatGPT, covering everything from the common misconceptions of relativity and time dilation near the speed of light and black holes, to the immense size of the universe. They also touches on space exploration (Mars colonisation), the mysteries of gravity (gravitational waves), and some truly silly, thought-provoking physics questions about cats, superheroes, and woodchucks.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Time does not actually "slow...

In this episode, Lisa and Mike dive into a recent controversy sparked by an influencer's comments about laser hair removal and pregnancy. Lisa shares her frustration over misinformation that has caused panic among clients considering laser treatments while planning for pregnancy. They explore the science behind hair growth cycles, the effects of hormonal changes during pregnancy, and the importance of understanding how laser treatments work. Mike provides insights into the physiological aspects of hair follicles and the potential for dormant follicles to reactivate, emphasising that reputable clinics are not "robbing" clients.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

An influencer's...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa take a lively dive into the fascinating (and sometimes hilarious) world of artificial intelligence. They chat about how AI tools like ChatGPT and Site.ai are showing up in the laser industry - sharing their own experiments, surprises, and a few AI “oops” moments along the way.

From AI claiming Mike invented the Ruby laser (spoiler: he didn’t) to the real do’s and don’ts of using AI for laser treatments, Mike and Lisa break it all down with humour and honesty. They also bust a few persistent myths about lase...

As Lisa navigates her pregnancy, Mike brings his expertise as a Laser Protection Advisor (LPA) to the forefront, explaining the critical importance of understanding laser safety in clinical settings. They discuss the role of LPAs, the significance of proper safety equipment like laser safety glasses, and the potential hazards associated with various laser classifications.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Understanding laser safety is critical for anyone working with lasers or IPL devices, as improper handling can lead to serious eye injuries or other hazards.

An LPA is responsible for assessing the safety of laser environments, ensuring...

Today, Mike and Lisa dive into the intricate science of hair follicles and the role of melanin. Mike shares insights from his recent research, including the significance of the dermal papilla and the matrix in hair growth cycles. They look into how laser treatments target these components, the complexities of hair follicle regeneration, and the implications for effective hair removal.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Hair follicles occupy indentations in the skin, with a complex structure that includes the dermal papilla and matrix, which play crucial roles in hair growth and signalling.

The dermal papilla acts...

In this second part of their listener Q&A, Lisa and Mike clear up common myths (like whether it’s possible to “overcool” a follicle), explain why pre- and post-cooling matter so much, and dive into the big debate: stamping vs. the gliding SHR method. They also share some important safety insights, and talk about why having an LPA and LSO is essential for running a safe, professional clinic.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It is not possible to "overcool" the hair follicle before a laser treatment, as a dark, melanin-rich hair will still absorb enough energy to reach...

Today, Lisa and Mike tackle a series of listener questions. Mike shares a personal anecdote about his own sun damage from a recent trip to Italy, despite his usual advocacy for sun protection. He also discusses a curious case from early in his career involving a client's red tattoo that turned black after a laser treatment, a phenomenon he explains is an oxidation process. They consider the complexities of laser technology, the importance of training, and the nuances of treating different skin tones, particularly with diode lasers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mick discusses an early case where...

Lisa interviews a very special guest today - her dad, Mike Murphy, a true pioneer in medical aesthetic lasers. From being captivated by the moon landing as a kid to diving deep into physics and astronomy, Mike’s lifelong love of science eventually led him to make history by opening the world’s first private tattoo removal clinic using Q-switched lasers. His story is equal parts inspiring, nerdy, and groundbreaking.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mike Murphy was born in an RAF hospital in Germany and lived in various countries due to his father's military career, including Holland, Sing...

Today, Lisa and Mike delve into the intricacies of relaxation times in relation to laser treatments, particularly focusing on tattoo removal. They clarify previous discussions about the relevance of relaxation times, emphasising their importance when dealing with tiny ink particles in tattoos. They explore how these particles behave under laser energy, the mechanics of steam formation, and the differences between nanosecond and picosecond lasers.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Relaxation time is crucial when considering tattoo removal because the tiny ink particles can lose heat rapidly. This means that the energy from the laser must be delivered in...

Today, Mike and Lisa dive into a passionate discussion about the ongoing debate between two hair removal techniques: stamping and Super Hair Removal (SHR). Lisa expresses her frustration over misleading social media posts that claim stamping is outdated and ineffective, while SHR is the superior method. They explore the importance of technique in both methods, emphasising that neither is inherently better if not applied correctly.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Both stamping and Super Hair Removal (SHR) techniques can be effective for laser hair removal, but their success heavily depends on proper application. Incorrect techniques can lead to...

Lisa and Mike delve into a series of curious cases they've encountered in their laser treatment practice. They discuss unusual reactions from clients, including prolonged redness after cooling treatments and unexpected swelling in sensitive areas. The conversation also touches on the challenges of treating stubborn hair in the bikini area and the complexities of tattoo removal, particularly with dense ink

KEY TAKEAWAYS

One client experienced prolonged redness on her lower legs after laser hair removal treatments, suggesting a possible mild inflammatory response to the cooling process rather than the laser itself. This highlights the importance...

Light Scattering and Laser Treatments: What You Need to Know

In this episode of Lasers in Skin, Lisa and Mike explain how light scatters in the skin during laser treatments. They uncover the risks of treating tattoos, pigmentation, and permanent makeup (PMU), and debunk the myth that white tape or pencil can safely protect tattoos. Listeners will also hear about Mike’s upcoming experiment on different light wavelengths and what it means for safer, more effective laser procedures.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Light scattering in skin – how lasers and light bounce within the dermis, creating risk...

In this episode, Lisa and Mike discuss the concept of thermal relaxation time (TRT) and its relevance in laser treatments. They explore the historical context of TRT, tracing its origins back to discussions between physicist Dr. John Parrish and dermatologist Dr. Rox Anderson in the 1980s. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding how heat affects blood vessels and hair follicles during laser procedures. Lisa and Mike also introduce the concept of thermal diffusion time (TDT) and emphasise that the key to effective treatments lies in the denaturation time of stem cells, rather than solely focusing on TRT or...

In this episode, Lisa and Mike discuss their recent experience as a VTCT approved training academy, focusing on their first cohort of students completing the Level 4 Certificate in Laser and Light Treatments. They share insights on the assessment process, highlighting the challenges and peculiarities of the VTCT regulations, particularly regarding hygiene practices and the emphasis on gloves. They also touch on the current state of proposed regulations for the aesthetic industry in Scotland, the implications for both medical and non-medical practitioners, and the importance of proper training.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The VTCT process emphasised minor details...

In today's episode of Lasers In Skin, your favourite laser-loving duo, Lisa and Mike, tackle some of the most burning (but not literally!) questions from listeners about laser technology. From dialling in the perfect calibration to decoding the mysteries of fluence and spot size, they break it all down with their signature mix of wit and wisdom. You'll also hear about the best wavelengths for zapping melanin and targeting haemoglobin like a pro.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The numbers displayed on laser machines, such as millijoules, often do not accurately represent the actual energy output. Proper calibration...

Today, Mike and Lisa take to the internet to fact-check some of the more questionable laser advice being dished out across the internet. They address a variety of topics, including the effectiveness of different laser technologies, ideas about cooling the skin during treatments, and the potential pitfalls of taking bad advice.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Cooling the skin is essential for reducing pain during laser hair removal treatments. Techniques such as using ice packs or air coolers are recommended over numbing creams, which may mask pain but do not address the underlying thermal damage.

There...

In this episode, Lisa and Mike delve into the complexities of language as it pertains to the field of laser hair removal and skin treatments. They discuss the term "paradoxical hypertrichosis," exploring its definitions and the potential for misinterpretation within the industry. They highlight the importance of precise language when discussing hair growth, treatment effects, and the various parameters involved in laser technology. They also touch on the significance of understanding skin tone versus skin type, emphasising how clarity in terminology can enhance communication and improve treatment outcomes.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Clear and precise language is...

In this episode, Lisa and Mike discuss the critical topic of continuous training in the laser and aesthetic industry. They take a look at some alarming stories of clinics potentially providing inadequate training to technicians, leading to poor treatment outcomes for clients, particularly in laser hair removal. They highlight the importance of reputable training and the need for practitioners to understand the science behind their work, and also touch on various qualifications, including VTCT and ITEC, and emphasize the significance of ongoing professional development to ensure safety and efficacy in treatments.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Continuous training...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa return to their Explain Like I'm 5 series to explore the origins of lasers. Starting from Einstein's concept of stimulated emission in 1917 to the creation of the first laser by Theodore Maiman in 1960, Mike and Lisa break down complex concepts such as monochromaticity, coherence, and non-divergence, making them accessible to listeners of all ages. They discuss the mechanics of how lasers work, including the roles of gain mediums, mirrors, and the process of stimulated emission.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Lasers operate based on the principle of stimulated emission of photons, a concept...

In today's episode, Mike and Lisa discuss the physics and biology behind the process, explaining how lasers interact with tattoo ink to create steam bubbles that facilitate ink removal. Mike shares his extensive experience in the field, dating back to 1986, and clarifies common misconceptions about tattoo removal technologies, including the differences between Q-switched and picosecond lasers. The episode also addresses myths surrounding frosting, the significance of sound during treatments, and the challenges of removing various ink colours.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The process involves using lasers to heat tattoo ink particles rapidly, causing them to absorb energy...

In this episode, Lisa and Mike delve into the topic of skin cooling, particularly concerning laser and IPL treatments. Lisa and Mike discuss the science behind skin temperature, pain receptors, and the importance of cooling the skin before and after procedures to minimise discomfort and prevent thermal damage. Mike explains how cooling can significantly reduce pain perception and protect collagen, while also addressing common misconceptions about skin cooling methods.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Skin cooling is essential during laser and IPL treatments to reduce pain and protect the skin from thermal damage. Cooling the...

Join Lisa and Mike as they interview the vibrant Claire Louise, a laser technician from Ilminster, Somerset. The trio dives into Claire's journey from a 23-year career in pharmaceuticals to becoming a successful laser practitioner, highlighting the challenges she faced with inadequate training and the pivotal moment that led her to seek guidance from Mike. Claire shares her experiences with laser hair removal and tattoo removal, emphasising the importance of authenticity in the beauty industry and the supportive community they've built together.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Being genuine and authentic is crucial in building trust with clients...

In this episode, Lisa and Mike Murphy delve into the critical relationship between tanning, UV exposure, and laser treatments. With the recent sunny weather in the UK leading to increased UV exposure, they discuss the potential skin damage that can occur, including hyperpigmentation and irritation, particularly for those with lighter skin tones. Mike explains the science behind how ultraviolet photons can disrupt skin DNA and the body's natural response of producing melanin as a protective barrier. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Increased UV exposure from sunlight or sunbeds can lead to skin damage, including hyperpigmentation and irritation, which c...

Sparked by Lisa's own announcement of her pregnancy, this episode explores the potential impact of using lasers when pregnant. As Lisa shares her experiences with increased sensitivity to laser treatments and the effects of pregnancy on her skin, her and Mike discuss the safety concerns surrounding laser use for both technicians and clients who are pregnant. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Pregnancy can increase skin sensitivity, making treatments like laser procedures feel more intense and painful than before.

There is a recommendation for laser technicians who are pregnant to proceed with caution, as the effects of l...

In today's episode, Lisa and Mike delve into common misconceptions and myths surrounding laser treatments and skin cooling techniques. They discuss the fallacy that skin cooling can overcool hair follicles during hair removal, the importance of proper cooling for blood vessel treatments, and the misconceptions about spot sizes in tattoo laser treatments. The duo also addresses the critical need for safety glasses during procedures involving Q-Switch ND YAG lasers, emphasising the dangers of low fluence and the necessity of eye protection for both practitioners and clients.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It is a misconception that skin cooling...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa delve into the fascinating world of physics as it relates to lasers and skin treatments. They break down complex concepts such as absorption, scattering, and anisotropy in a way that's easy to understand, even for a five-year-old. Through engaging examples, they explain how photons interact with atoms, leading to either absorption or scattering, and how this affects the effectiveness of different wavelengths in laser treatments. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

When photons encounter atoms, they can either be absorbed or scattered. Absorption occurs when the energy of a photon matches the energy r...

Today, Lisa and Mike delve into the ongoing debate surrounding Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology versus lasers. They discuss common misconceptions about IPLs, such as their perceived lack of strength and penetration compared to lasers, and highlight the versatility of IPLs in treating various skin concerns. Additionally, they explore the emerging trend of Broadband Light (BBL) treatments, questioning how they differ from traditional IPLs. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is not a laser; it uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths, while lasers emit light at a specific wavelength. This difference allows IPLs to b...

Today, Mike and Lisa investigate the most common concerns surrounding laser hair removal, as discussed in various online forums. They explore the concept of paradoxical hypertrichosis, synchronised hair growth, and the effects of laser treatments on hair colour, including the potential for hair to appear grey or lighter. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There is a common misconception that laser hair removal can cause paradoxical hypertrichosis, where hair grows in areas that previously had none. However, many reports of increased hair growth after treatment are likely due to synchronised hair growth, which occurs when hair follicles are treated w...

In today's episode, Mike and Lisa look at the complexities of safely and effectively treating deeper skin tones, particularly those with higher melanin concentrations. They discuss the importance of understanding how melanin affects laser treatments, noting that darker skin absorbs more energy, which can lead to increased risks of cellular damage and pain. Both Mike and Lisa challenge common misconceptions about using lower fluences for darker skin, advocating instead for higher fluences combined with enhanced cooling techniques to achieve optimal results.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Darker skin has a higher concentration of melanin throughout the epidermis, which...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa delve into a concerning trend in the laser and IPL industry: the potential capping of fluence output by machine manufacturers. They discuss recent experiences shared by practitioners who found their machines unable to deliver the higher fluences promised in their manuals, raising questions about the implications for treatment efficacy. Mike and Lisa advocate for the need to empower users with the ability to access the full potential of their devices, rather than imposing arbitrary limits that could hinder results. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

There is a growing concern in the industry r...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa delve into a recent critique of their training methods regarding laser hair removal, specifically addressing concerns raised by a laser supplier about their promotion of higher fluences and external cooling techniques. Mike & Lisa clarify the science behind pulse widths, fluences, and the importance of targeting stem cells rather than just the hair itself. Mike and Lisa also touch on the implications of using higher fluences on handpiece longevity and the overall effectiveness of treatments, encouraging practitioners to prioritize results and client satisfaction.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The relationship between p...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa interview Caroline McLean, an advanced skin practitioner from Skinology in Glasgow, who shares her extensive 20-year experience in the industry. They discuss Caroline's unique approach to using IPL for pigmentation, which contrasts with Mike and Lisa's established protocols. Caroline elaborates on her combination therapies, including the use of a cold laser bionic and CO2 treatments. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Caroline McLean utilises a unique IPL protocol for treating pigmentation, which involves higher fluence settings and double passes, contrasting with traditional methods. This approach allows for immediate darkening of the pigment, indicating e...

In today's episode, Mike and Lisa dive into the fundamental concepts of laser physics through a fun "Explain Like I'm Five" format. They explore key terms such as fluence, pulse width, and wavelength, breaking down complex ideas into simple analogies. Mike explains how fluence, measured in joules per square centimeter, is crucial for achieving effective results in laser treatments, while pulse width is likened to the duration of a bus journey delivering energy to the skin. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Fluence refers to the concentration of energy delivered to the skin during laser treatments, measured in joules p...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa delve into the complexities of online forums related to laser treatments, including laser hair removal and tattoo removal. They express their concerns about the often toxic environment of social media, where misinformation can spread easily and new practitioners may take inaccurate advice as gospel. The duo emphasise the importance of conducting thorough research and seeking multiple perspectives before accepting any information found online. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Social media forums, especially those related to laser treatments, can provide both valuable information and misleading advice. It's important to verify information from multiple s...

In this week's episode, Mike and Lisa look into the intriguing relationship between waxing and laser hair removal treatments. They explore the traditional belief that waxing should be avoided before laser treatments due to the risk of removing the hair target, but Mike presents a compelling argument based on the biology of hair growth phases. They discuss the importance of melanin in targeting hair follicles and suggest that waxing may actually enhance the effectiveness of laser treatments by reducing pain and minimizing harmful plume exposure for operators. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Traditionally, it has been advised not t...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa discuss the exciting news of Mike's recent election as chairman of the Association of Laser Safety Professionals (LPA). They talk through the organisation's mission to promote laser safety across various sectors, including clinics and industrial settings. Mike shares insights about the role of Laser Safety Officers (LSOs) and the new online course he's developing to train them, emphasising the importance of safety in laser use. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Mike Murphy has been elected as the chairman of the Association of Laser Safety Professionals, which aims to raise awareness of laser s...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa welcome their first online guest, Natasha, a laser technician from Northern Ireland. Natasha shares her journey through the challenges she faced early in her career, including a distressing experience with a potential lawsuit. She discusses how she overcame her initial lack of confidence and offers valuable tips for new and aspiring laser techs.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Having proper insurance is crucial for laser technicians. In the event of a legal issue, it's essential to pass all correspondence to the insurance company, allowing them to handle the situation.

Technicians...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa delve into the anticipated new regulations for laser treatments set to be introduced in Scotland in 2026. Drawing from Mike's extensive experience in the industry since opening the world's first tattoo removal clinic in 1989, they discuss the current regulatory landscape, the potential qualifications required for practitioners, and the importance of medical oversight for certain treatments. There is confusion surrounding existing regulations and a need for clarity as the industry evolves. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

New regulations regarding laser treatments in Scotland are expected to be proposed in 2026, with ongoing discussions about the q...