Lasers in Skin Podcast Por Lisa McMahon & Mike Murphy arte de portada

Lasers in Skin

Lasers in Skin

De: Lisa McMahon & Mike Murphy
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 Lasers in Skin Podcast, hosted by "Laser Guru" Mike Murphy, and his daughter Lisa McMahon, dives into the science of lasers in aesthetics. Mike and Lisa delve into the fundamental physics all laser technicians must understand to get the best results, while squashing the myths, the "marketing baloney" and calling out poor training in the industry. Along with unmissable interviews and 'ask us anything' episodes, the Lasers in Skin Podcast is the ultimate podcast for laser geeks! Arte Ciencia Diseño y Artes Decorativas Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodios
  • Laser Tattoo Removal - 'Mythconceptions'

    Laser Tattoo Removal - 'Mythconceptions'
    Jun 26 2025
    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/
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    30 m
  • Chilling Out: The Science Behind Skin Cooling in Laser Treatments

    Chilling Out: The Science Behind Skin Cooling in Laser Treatments
    Jun 18 2025
    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/
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    26 m
  • An interview with Claire Louise-Hutchinson

    An interview with Claire Louise-Hutchinson
    Jun 11 2025
    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/
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    39 m
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