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PODCAST

Lasers in Skin

Lisa McMahon & Mike Murphy

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!

science fashion & beauty

All Episodes

27:30

Regulations, Training & VTCT

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/08/07

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

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34:53

Technical Questions We Often Get

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/07/31

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

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23:10

Mike Reacts To Social Media Advice

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/07/24

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

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32:35

Watch Your Language!

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/07/17

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

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33:00

What's Important About Continuous Training?

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/07/10

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

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36:16

ELI5 - Laser

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/07/03

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

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29:59

Laser Tattoo Removal - 'Mythconceptions'

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/06/26

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

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26:13

Chilling Out: The Science Behind Skin Cooling in...

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/06/18

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

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38:37

An interview with Claire Louise-Hutchinson

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/06/11

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

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27:13

Does UV Absorption Really Matter with Lasers/IPL

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/06/04

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

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20:07

Surprise! Lisa is Pregnant, but What Does This Mean...

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/05/28

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.

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19:30

Let's Make Mike Mad - Discussing Incorrect Training

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/05/21

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

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26:38

Explain Like I'm 5 - Absorption, Scattering, Anistropy

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/05/14

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

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24:36

IPL - Is It The Worst Technology? NO!!

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/05/07

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

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27:08

Common Concerns of Having Laser Hair Removal

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/04/30

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

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13:08

Explain Like I'm 5 - How to Safely and Effectively...

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/04/23

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

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15:20

Are Laser Suppliers Putting Limits on Machines?

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/04/16

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

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27:19

Navigating Criticism: Defending Our Training Methods...

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/04/09

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

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39:55

Innovative IPL Techniques: How Caroline McLean is...

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/04/02

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

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13:59

Explain Like I'm Five - Fluence (again, it's...

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/03/27

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

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52 results

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