Lasers in Skin

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...

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,...

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...

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 pho...

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 s...

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 fo...

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...

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, ques...

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 ca...

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 misco...

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...

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 L...

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 an...

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 wid...

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...

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 hai...

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...

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...

In this episode Mike and Lisa sit down with Dr. Marc Reid, author of "You Are Not a Fraud: The Scientist's Guide to Imposter Syndrome." Together they delve into the complexities of imposter experiences, exploring their origins, manifestations, and strategies for managing them. With personal anecdotes and insights from Dr. Reid's research, including a survey of over a thousand participants, the dis...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa dive into the concept of fluence, a critical factor in laser treatments. They explain fluence as the concentration of energy delivered to the skin, emphasising its importance in achieving successful results for various procedures like hair removal, tattoo removal, and treating blood vessels. They also cover related terms such as pulse width and wavelength, using rela...

In this very first episode of the Lasers in Skin podcast, physicist Mike Murphy and his daughter, Lisa McMahon, introduce themselves and share their unique backgrounds in the world of lasers and skin treatments. Mike recounts his journey from studying physics and astronomy to pioneering laser tattoo removal and becoming a laser protection advisor. Lisa reflects on growing up surrounded by lasers a...

In today's episode, Mike and Lisa delve into the critical topic of skin cooling during laser treatments. They discuss the importance of maintaining optimal temperatures to prevent pain and thermal damage to surrounding tissues, particularly collagen. Mike explains the thermodynamics behind laser energy absorption and the necessity of using effective cooling methods, such as ice packs, to draw heat...

In this episode, Mick and Lisa dive into the fascinating world of vascular removal treatments, specifically focusing on their favourite methods using IPL and long pulse YAG lasers. Lisa shares her excitement and detailed protocol for treating blood vessels, discussing the importance of pre-cooling the area, selecting the right fluence, and the technique of applying gel to the IPL tip. They explore...

In this episode, Mike and Lisa dive into a lively question-and-answer session, addressing a variety of topics related to laser technology and safety. They discuss common misleading claims made by laser suppliers, particularly regarding hair removal capabilities and output power, emphasising the importance of understanding fluence over mere wattage. The duo also shares humorous anecdotes, including...

ABOUT US 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 bl...