Lasers in Skin

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 Lisa expresses her frustration over misleading social media posts that claim stamping is outdated and ineffective, while SHR is the superior method.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 ineffective results regardless of the method used. The fluence (energy delivered per unit area) is crucial for both stamping and SHR. Low fluence levels can result in inadequate heat accumulation in hair follicles, leading to poor treatment outcomes. New claims about lasers being safe for tanned skin are met with scepticism. The skin's response to tanning indicates underlying damage, and treating tanned skin with lasers can pose risks of further damage and ineffective results. Claims about the effectiveness of SHR and its advantages over stamping should be backed by credible research. The lack of accessible studies supporting these claims raises concerns about their validity. It is essential to prioritise client safety by advising against laser treatments on tanned skin. Proper healing time should be observed to avoid potential skin damage and ensure effective treatment outcomes. BEST MOMENTS "So these things I get sent from different laser techs or people that we've trained, kind of just saying, huh, is this right? And obviously then we have to say, meh. Maybe not." "If you're doing too big an area, the target is going to be reducing its temperature every time before you get back to it." "The problem is though, as far as I can tell, most people are not doing it correctly." "What people have to understand is that when you get a tan, what you are essentially seeing is the result of a damaged skin." "It's a really dangerous thing to be promoting as new technology. It's not new technology." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 of monitoring individual reactions to treatments. Another client, who is very sensitive to cold, had a significant reaction after a standard cooling duration. Adjusting the cooling time to less than two minutes still yielded good treatment results, indicating that individual sensitivity should be considered in treatment protocols. Labia hairs are noted to be particularly stubborn during hair removal treatments. Many practitioners face difficulties achieving complete removal in this area, which may be due to deeper hair follicles and the unique tissue composition of the labia. A case involving a client's tattoo removal revealed that excessive ink density in a specific area led to severe blistering and infection. This suggests that the amount of ink and the depth at which it is placed can significantly affect the healing process and treatment outcomes. BEST MOMENTS "The fact that she's seen this for days afterwards is very strange. That kind of suggests there is some sort of mild inflammatory response to the cooling." "Labia hairs are bloody stubborn. It's a well-known fact in the industry that it's not just a few people struggling with that area." "If you have an excess of ink put into a particular area, then you're going to have an excess of microscarring." "I suspect that is most likely down to the very high density of ink in that particular region." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.   Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com  https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 risks if not carefully managed. Risks of treating tattoos – why lasers and IPL near tattoos can cause unintended damage or unwanted changes. Why distance matters – maintaining a safe distance from tattoos and pigmented areas is critical, with factors like wavelength and skin type influencing the risk. Permanent Makeup (PMU) concerns – the pigments used in PMU can react unpredictably to lasers, causing colour shifts or skin damage. Professional assessment is essential – moles and pigmented areas should always be checked by qualified professionals before laser treatments to ensure safety. BEST MOMENTS "The light scatters all over the place, in the dermis and everywhere, and back out of the skin. But the sideways scattering is what could cause problems if you are treating close to a tattoo or to some pigmentation." "If you fire a millisecond laser at tattoos, then we do not get the same sort of reaction that you would with a Q-switched or picosecond laser." "You can't just laser on top of this and hope it's going to be okay, which I've seen people do just because they're trained to do that." "The darker colours, the browns and blacks, they'll absorb quite strongly. The reds and yellows will absorb quite poorly. So what's going to happen is the browns and the black colours, they'll fade preferentially." "If we're going to be going over freckles, we might remove these freckles. As long as people are happy with us to do that, then I'm happy to go ahead." HOST BIOS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.   Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com  https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 TDT. KEY TAKEAWAYS This is the time it takes for the temperature of a target (like blood vessels) to drop to 50% of its peak temperature. It is crucial for determining how to effectively use lasers for treatments. The concept developed by John Parrish and Rox Anderson, which emphasises the importance of matching the laser wavelength to the target's absorption characteristics to achieve effective treatment outcomes. This is the time required to heat stem cells to a temperature that effectively destroys them. It is more critical than TRT or Thermal Diffusion Time (TDT) when it comes to ensuring the success of hair removal treatments. The effectiveness of a treatment depends not only on the temperature reached but also on how long that temperature is maintained. Higher temperatures can reduce the necessary time for effective treatment. Most of the denaturation and chemical processes occur after the laser pulse has finished, meaning that the effects of the treatment can continue even after the energy delivery has stopped. BEST MOMENTS "The whole point of the thermal relaxation time calculation was to say, let's confine the thermal energy within the blood so that it doesn't spread out everywhere during the pulse." "If you're trying to kill a hair follicle, we know that you have to basically kill the stem cells." "We don't care about TRT. Herein lies the problem. If you're basing your timings on a relaxation time, which is a cooling time of the hair, they are irrelevant." "The higher the temperature, the shorter the time you need to cook. So at 80 degrees, you might need one millisecond. 90 degrees, you might need 0.1 millisecond." "Most of the actual chemical process of denaturation and cooking occurs after the pulses, not during." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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, such as glove changes, which may not reflect real-world practices in clinics. This led to a discussion on the need for a more practical approach in assessments. The current VTCT syllabus lacks sufficient emphasis on the scientific principles behind laser and light treatments, which are crucial for practitioners. The hosts aim to enhance their course content to provide a more thorough understanding of these concepts. Proposed regulations for the aesthetic industry in Scotland are being discussed, with concerns about the representation of industry professionals versus the general public in the consultation process. The hosts advocate for regulations that ensure safety without unfairly restricting non-medical practitioners. There are warnings about training academies that may mislead potential students regarding the qualifications needed under the new regulations. It's essential for practitioners to ensure they receive accredited training that aligns with future regulatory requirements. Mike and Lisa express a strong commitment to providing valuable training that goes beyond basic requirements, emphasising the importance of thorough education in building confidence and competence among practitioners in the aesthetic field. BEST MOMENTS "We need to be more mindful of the regulations because at the moment we live in the wild west. It's crazy what happens." "The problem that I had was that I wanted to talk about groovy stuff like affluence and wavelengths, but we just spent an awful lot of time talking about gloves and gel." "We have about 12 to 14 weeks for full duration. It's not just a couple of days and out your door here's your certificate." "Just because they're medically qualified doesn't mean they automatically know more. That's not the case." "Be really careful because there are companies out there that are sadly feeding on this and they're loving it because they get vulnerable people." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 using a meter is essential to determine the true energy and fluence delivered to the skin. Changing the spot size of a laser significantly affects the fluence (energy density) delivered to the skin. A larger spot size decreases fluence, which can impact treatment effectiveness, especially for hair removal and vascular treatments. When comparing laser machines, it's crucial to consider power density (power delivered per unit area) rather than just the total power output. Two machines with the same power density can deliver similar treatment results, regardless of their total wattage. Different wavelengths are used to target specific chromophores in the skin. For hair removal, red and infrared wavelengths are preferred due to their deeper penetration, while green and yellow wavelengths are effective for treating blood vessels. Higher fluence levels generally lead to fewer treatment sessions required for effective results. However, the choice of wavelength also affects the necessary fluence, as lower wavelengths can deliver more energy to the target without damaging surrounding tissues. BEST MOMENTS "The reality is that those numbers on a lot of these machines are just what I call scale numbers. They don't refer to the actual energy or power or anything that's coming out of the machine." "If you're using like a 1064 nanometers, because that particular wavelength is the most benign wavelength in the skin. Right. It doesn't do an awful lot of damage." "If you go from say, say that with a lens the spot size is say five millimetres, right, and you swap over, you put on a glass tip and it's now 10 millimetres. That's doubling the diameter, right?" "If you're treating hair, the target that absorbs the light is the melanin. The targets we're trying to kill are the stem cells. But the stem cells don't have a chromophore that we can target." "If you're using huge big spots like 24mm, that's pretty massive, right? Then I would imagine that the maximum fluence you'll get in that spot is fairly low." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 is a significant amount of misinformation in the laser treatment industry, often propagated by salespeople. Various laser technologies can be effective if used correctly, and no single type of laser is universally superior. Hair regrowth in different colours (e.g., white) after laser treatments is not caused by previous IPL treatments. Instead, it can occur due to the destruction of melanin in the hair follicles, which is a temporary effect. Both picosecond and nanosecond lasers can effectively treat black ink tattoos. Claims that one type is categorically better than the other for specific colours are often misleading and lack scientific backing. The term "oxidation" is frequently misused in discussions about tattoo ink reactions. While some inks may change colour due to chemical processes, the idea that white ink will oxidise and change colour when treated with a laser is not supported by evidence. BEST MOMENTS "Numbing cream just deadens the sensations of the nerves. It doesn't cool the skin. So you're still going to get thermal damage." "The fact of the matter is that there are a number of technologies available today that all do a great job if applied correctly." "It's always been. So you always get salespeople from various companies will tell you any old garbage to make a sale." "If your melanin is destroyed in the hair and it's bleached, then your hair will become white or grey, but it doesn't really matter because it's a short-term thing." "Everything works on black. Black is black because it absorbs everything, all the wavelengths, right? So it doesn't matter if it's Pico, Nano or whatever." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 crucial in discussions about hair growth and laser treatments to avoid misunderstandings and misinterpretations. The term "paradoxical hypertrichosis" is often misused. It should refer to hair growth in areas that have not been treated with laser, while many are confusing it with stimulated or synchronised hair growth in treated areas. Treatments like laser hair removal can lead to synchronised hair growth, where previously dormant follicles may start to grow at the same time due to the treatment, rather than indicating paradoxical hypertrichosis. Terms like "strength" or "stronger laser" are vague and can lead to confusion. It's essential to specify parameters such as fluence, energy density, and power when discussing laser treatments. The distinction between skin tone and skin type is important. Skin tone refers to the concentration of melanin in the skin, which affects how it reacts to treatments, while skin type (Fitzpatrick classification) is related to UV radiation response and is not relevant in the context of laser treatments. BEST MOMENTS "Paradoxical hypertrichosis... basically it's hair growth in an area where you didn't have hair growing before." "I believe that everybody that is saying they see this, they are definitely seeing something, but I don't know if they're all meaning the same thing." "You cannot stimulate new follicles, but you can stimulate them into a different phase of growth." "Skin type is your Fitzpatrick, which is how your skin reacts to ultraviolet radiation." "Using the wrong language is just a, to me, it's bad language." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 is crucial in the laser and skin treatment industry to ensure technicians are knowledgeable and skilled in using equipment effectively, which directly impacts client results. There are significant concerns regarding the quality of training provided at some clinics, leading to poor treatment outcomes for clients, such as excessive sessions without satisfactory results. If technicians are not achieving good results, the responsibility lies with the management and owners of the clinics, who must ensure their staff are properly trained and equipped to provide effective services. Misinformation can easily spread within the industry, often from trainers who may not have the correct knowledge, which can lead to practitioners applying incorrect techniques or advice. When selecting a training provider, it is essential to research their credentials, ask about their training sources, and ensure they have a solid reputation to avoid investing in inadequate training that may not meet future regulatory standards. BEST MOMENTS "So yeah, allegedly, what always came out that people believe is what's happening is that technicians in these companies are being either told to do this or just not taught properly." "If they're not generating good results, then that's the responsibility of the managers and ultimately the owners of the clinic because they're supposed to provide a service." "It's making people think laser hair removal doesn't work. It's actually giving everybody quite a bad name, which isn't ideal for us." "You can have the best laser on the planet and if you're not using it correctly, you won't get good results. Simple as that." "This is just kind of coming into highlighting the importance of training and getting reputable training." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 introduced by Einstein in 1917. The acronym LASER stands for "Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation." A typical laser consists of a gain medium (which can be a crystal, gas, or liquid), two mirrors (one fully reflective and one partially reflective), and a power source to stimulate the gain medium. The mirrors help amplify the light by reflecting photons back and forth. For a laser to function effectively, a population inversion must be achieved, where more atoms are in an excited state than in a ground state. This is necessary to ensure that stimulated emission can dominate over spontaneous emission. Different types of lasers exist, including solid-state lasers (like Nd:YAG and ruby lasers), gas lasers (like CO2 lasers), and diode lasers. Each type has unique properties and applications, with diode lasers being particularly versatile due to their ability to generate various wavelengths by combining different semiconductor materials. BEST MOMENTS "LASER means, LASER is an acronym, stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. In this case, radiation being light energy." "So wait, why did he invent it? Because he could." "So coherence basically means that all the photons, they're all doing the same thing, they've all got the same wavelength or frequency, they're all moving in the same directions." "If you don't have enough electrons in the right metastable state, then the whole thing will eventually just kind of peter out." "The problem is that some of these drops in energy states will not generate new photons, but they'll generate phonons." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 and create steam bubbles that break apart the surrounding cells, allowing the ink to disperse. The most common lasers used for tattoo removal are Q-switched and picosecond lasers. Q-switched lasers deliver energy in nanosecond pulses, while picosecond lasers deliver energy in shorter, picosecond pulses, which can lead to slightly more effective ink removal. Frosting, the white or grey appearance on the skin after laser treatment, is often misunderstood. While it can indicate a successful treatment, it is not a necessary clinical endpoint, especially as treatments progress. The idea that a cracking sound during treatment indicates effective tattoo removal is incorrect. This sound can occur when the laser is used improperly, leading to unnecessary skin damage. While lasers can technically treat all ink colours, the energy required for certain colours, like yellow, may be too high and could damage the skin. White ink is particularly difficult to remove due to its reflective properties. BEST MOMENTS "When you hit a tattoo with laser energy, the ink in the tattoo will absorb some of that energy, will heat up very, very rapidly and will quickly exceed the boiling point of water." "The lasers we use are either Q-switched, which deliver nanosecond pulses, or picosecond lasers. These pulses are extremely short, and you have to do that to generate the extremely rapid temperature rise." "I found that, for particle sizes down to something like five microns in size, there wasn't really any significant difference, but below five microns, there was some appreciable difference." "If they come in for a consultation, they're like, does it hurt? I'm like, well, yeah... it does hurt. Use ice pack cooling to try and reduce the pain as much as we can." "The problem is that your spot size is so small, your energy density is so high that you will damage the skin. No two ways about it." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring. Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 skin before and during treatments helps lower the temperature of pain receptors, making the procedure more comfortable for clients. The skin's temperature typically sits around 35-36 degrees Celsius. Pain receptors (nociceptors) activate at 45 degrees Celsius, meaning a small increase in temperature can lead to pain. Ice packs are preferred for skin cooling because they provide efficient and deep cooling compared to air or cryogenic methods. Ice packs can lower the temperature of nociceptors significantly, allowing for safer and more effective laser treatments. Pre-cooling with ice packs not only reduces pain but also minimizes the risk of thermal damage, blistering, and pigmentation issues. There are misconceptions that cooling the skin can numb pain receptors to the point where clients cannot feel burning. However, cooling does not eliminate the ability to feel pain; it simply raises the temperature threshold needed to trigger pain sensations, ensuring safety during treatments. BEST MOMENTS "If you fire in laser energy or IPL energy then you can easily generate much, much greater temperatures, even over 100 degrees Celsius, which then leads to potential boiling and ablation." "I asked one of my dermatologist pals, Dr. Sidra, and she said, no, you're completely right. You won't burn the skin if it's cooled down fat enough." "The more you cool, the lower the temperature goes in the skin. Which makes sense." "If you cool the skin sufficiently, then it gives you a bigger margin to play with in terms of fluence." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.   Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com  https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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. Emphasising the importance of being oneself can lead to stronger relationships and a more successful business. Initial training in the laser industry can often be inadequate, leading to a lack of confidence and poor results. Seeking out comprehensive training and support is essential for success. Open and honest communication with clients about mistakes and learning experiences can foster trust and loyalty. Clients appreciate transparency and are often understanding when informed about changes in treatment protocols. Building a supportive community among professionals in the laser industry can help combat feelings of isolation and provide encouragement. Sharing knowledge and experiences can lead to collective growth and improvement. Understanding the science behind treatments and adjusting protocols based on client feedback and research can significantly improve results. This includes extending treatment intervals and using appropriate techniques to enhance client comfort and effectiveness. BEST MOMENTS "You just have to be your genuine, authentic self. Don't try and be something you're not." "I thought I was going to blow someone's leg off, Mike. These are powerful machines." "Every single one of my clients was fantastic. I put together a PowerPoint to show them all the things that we talked about." "If you don't know how to use it, you'll never get the results. Simple as that." "You have to manage your client's expectations on the journey there." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.   Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com  https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 complicates laser and IPL treatments. The skin produces melanin as a protective response to UV exposure, but this process takes time. During this period, the dermis remains vulnerable to damage from high-energy UV photons. Performing laser or IPL treatments on already damaged skin can exacerbate issues, leading to prolonged healing times and increased risk of adverse reactions. The Fitzpatrick scale, which categorises skin types based on UV response, is often misused. Skin tone should be assessed based on melanin concentration at the time of treatment rather than relying solely on Fitzpatrick classifications. It's crucial to have clear pre- and post-care consultations with clients, ensuring they disclose any recent UV exposure. Consent forms should be used to protect practitioners from liability and ensure client safety. BEST MOMENTS "A tanned skin is a damaged skin. What it's masking is damage underneath. That's why the tan is there." "If you have a low level concentration of melanin then yes, that first few days of exposure to the sun or sunbeds is the same." "If the skin is already damaged previously by exposure to ultraviolet light then you're inflicting damage on damaged skin and therefore you're just accumulating more damage." "Make sure that your pre and post care and consultation forms are airtight. Clients lie. They're not going to tell you the truth." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.   Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com  https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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 laser treatments during pregnancy are not well-studied, and it’s better to err on the side of safety. Laser plume, the smoke produced during laser treatments, contains potentially harmful substances. Regular exposure can be equivalent to smoking multiple cigarettes a day, which poses additional risks for pregnant individuals. BEST MOMENTS "I just seem hung over all the time. I was like I'm so sorry I'm genuinely not coming to work hungover. There is a foetus inside me." "The problem is we don't know what the effects are. If we don't know, then do you really want to be the first person to say no?" "I keep forgetting, I just keep forgetting. But I said to this client of ours, the real thing I would be stopping is trying to have back-to-back treatments." "If you are doing laser hair removal, the plume is equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes a day." "I think it depends on the person and what you want to do to yourself. Absolutely, that's up to you. That's your prerogative." ABOUT THE HOSTS Mike began his career in medical lasers in 1986 with a physics degree and a post-grad in bioengineering. He helped develop the scar-free removal of tattoos using a Q-Switched Ruby Laser in Glasgow, and the world's first IPL system. Known well in the industry for his hard truths, no BS attitude and logical answers. As the author of three books, articles for medical journals, a well read blog, a Laser Protection Advisor and contributor to the BMLA, Mike is the Laser Guru. Lisa's claim to laser fame is being Mike's daughter. Growing up with lasers and never avoiding a physics lesson from her Dad, it was natural to enter the industry. Leaving a corporate career with a baby to jump into self employed life came with challenges. Despite that Lisa has been well recognised for her teaching style, practical tips, bringing the compassion to the science, and laser mentoring.   Instagram: @dermalase_lasertraining https://mikemurphyblog.com  https://www.dermalasetraining.com This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/