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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

35:06

More Science: From Femtoseconds to Zeptoseconds

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/12/11

Today, Lisa and Mike take another look at the fascinating world of laser physics, particularly in the context of medical aesthetics. They explore various pulse regimes - nanoseconds, picoseconds, and femtoseconds - discussing their implications for energy delivery and tissue reactions. Mike explains the significance of these time scales, including the concept of zeptoseconds, and how they relate to the behaviour of atoms and light. KEY TAKEAWAYS Different pulse regimes (nanoseconds, picoseconds,

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36:09

How Do We Read the Skin?

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/12/04

In this episode, Mike and Lisa delve into the intricacies of "reading the skin" during various laser treatments. They discuss the importance of understanding skin responses, such as erythema and edema, as indicators of treatment effectiveness, particularly in hair removal, tattoo removal, and pigmentation treatments.KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding skin responses during treatments is crucial. Indicators such as erythema (redness) and edema (swelling) provide valuable feedback on how the skin is

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26:55

Laser Pen

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/11/27

In this episode, Lisa and Mike dive into the controversial Neat Cell picosecond laser pen device, which claims to remove tattoos without scarring. Mike shares his skepticism about the device's effectiveness, explaining the technical limitations of picosecond lasers and the potential dangers of using such a product without proper safety measures. KEY TAKEAWAYS Skepticism of Neat Cell Device: The Neat Cell picosecond laser pen device is met with skepticism regarding its claims of being a true

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23:00

Hair Popping - What Does It Actually Mean?

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/11/20

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

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36:36

ELI5 - How Are Spot Size, Fluence & Penetration Depth...

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/11/13

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

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40:58

Ask the Physicist Fun Questions!

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/11/06

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

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21:22

Are Laser Techs 'Robbing Everyone'?

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/10/30

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

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41:24

AI & Lasers? The Good, Bad & Ugly!

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/10/23

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

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39:59

ELI5 - Laser Safety

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/10/16

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

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34:11

Let's Talk Hair Follicles

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/10/09

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

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30:25

Listener Questions - Part 2

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/10/02

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,

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30:02

Listener Questions - Part 1

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/09/25

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

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43:11

An Interview with... MIKE MURPHY!

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/09/18

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

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18:43

TRT Part 2 (Mike Couldn't Sleep)

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/09/11

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

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23:43

Is It A Surprise We Don't Like This? No..

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/09/04

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)

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28:02

Curious Things

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/08/28

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 inkKEY TAKEAWAYS One client experienced prolonged redness on her lower legs after laser hair

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25:33

Scattering

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/08/21

Light Scattering and Laser Treatments: What You Need to KnowIn 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

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31:41

Thermal Relaxation Time, Thermal Diffusion Time & More!

Lasers in Skin ·

2025/08/14

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

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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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50 results

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