Épisodes

  • 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 min
  • Does UV Absorption Really Matter with Lasers/IPL
    Jun 4 2025
    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/
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    28 min
  • Surprise! Lisa is Pregnant, but What Does This Mean for Lasers
    May 28 2025
    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/
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    21 min
  • Let's Make Mike Mad - Discussing Incorrect Training
    May 21 2025
    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 fluence and the necessity of eye protection for both practitioners and clients. KEY TAKEAWAYS It is a misconception that skin cooling can overcool hair follicles during hair removal treatments. In fact, the concentration of melanin in hair is significantly higher than in the surrounding skin, allowing for effective heating of the hair follicle even if the skin is cooled. When treating blood vessels, pre-cooling the skin is beneficial, but it is important to allow warm blood to flow back into the area before targeting the vessels. This ensures that the blood is at normal body temperature, while the surrounding tissue remains cooler, enhancing treatment effectiveness. Pulling the handpiece further back when using a tattoo laser with a lens is a common misconception. The handpiece is designed to deliver the correct spot size and fluence when in contact with the skin, and pulling it away can lead to unpredictable spot sizes and potentially harmful fluences. The SHR technique requires multiple passes over the same area to build up temperature effectively. It is incorrect to assume that a single pass is sufficient, as repeated passes at lower fluences are necessary to achieve the desired results. It is critical to wear proper safety glasses during laser treatments, including Q-Switch ND YAG lasers used in carbon facials. Even low fluences can produce extremely high power densities, making eye protection essential to prevent potential damage. BEST MOMENTS "So, in actual fact, with the numbers on this, obviously, if you've got black hair in Caucasian skin, then the concentration of melanin is about something like 23 times more concentrated in the hair than in the skin." "The only time that it might be a problem is if you're treating superficial benign pigmentation." "If you start pulling the handpiece away, you don't know what the spot size is, right?" "You absolutely must wear the proper safety glasses." "If you've been taught that way, please, please, please start wearing glasses." 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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    20 min
  • Explain Like I'm 5 - Absorption, Scattering, Anistropy
    May 14 2025
    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 atoms, they can either be absorbed or scattered. Absorption occurs when the energy of a photon matches the energy required for an electron to jump to a higher orbital, while scattering happens when the photon does not match this energy and is redirected. Absorbed photons increase the energy of the atom, leading to a higher vibrational state, which is perceived as heat. In contrast, scattered photons do not contribute to heating the atom but can create new photons of the same energy. Different wavelengths of light have varying absorption coefficients for different materials. For example, green ink absorbs red light well but poorly absorbs green light, making it ineffective to use green light on green ink in tattoo removal. Scattering is influenced by anisotropy, which refers to the directionality of scattered photons. High anisotropy means photons tend to scatter in the same direction as the incoming light, while low anisotropy results in more random scattering, affecting how deeply light penetrates the skin. The effectiveness of laser treatments, such as hair removal, is influenced by the wavelength used and the fluence (energy per unit area). Lower wavelengths tend to be more aggressive and can cause more damage to the upper layers of the skin due to their strong absorption in melanin and limited penetration depth. BEST MOMENTS "If the energy of the photon matches one of those transitions, then that atom can absorb that photon." "When light enters your eyeball and it hits the retina, somehow you perceive colour." "You could have something which strongly absorbs red lights, but doesn't like blue light." "Absorption is the warm atom and a new photon is scattering." "Blue light will generate much more damage in the epidermis compared to, say, red light." 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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    27 min
  • IPL - Is It The Worst Technology? NO!!
    May 7 2025
    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 laser; it uses a broad spectrum of light wavelengths, while lasers emit light at a specific wavelength. This difference allows IPLs to be more versatile in treating various skin concerns by using different filters. Despite common misconceptions, IPLs can be effective for various treatments, including hair removal, acne, and skin rejuvenation, provided they are used correctly and by trained professionals. Many practitioners using IPL technology may lack proper training, leading to ineffective treatments. Understanding the technology and its applications is crucial for achieving good results. Effective cooling is essential during IPL treatments to manage the heat generated in the skin. Many IPL systems do not adequately cool the skin, which can lead to discomfort and suboptimal results. Broadband Light (BBL) is often marketed as a more advanced version of IPL, but both technologies operate on similar principles. The differences in marketing claims often lack substantial evidence, and both can be effective depending on their specifications and usage. BEST MOMENTS "IPLs are not lasers. Okay. They're not. That's fine." "The problem is that a lot of these systems will have water cooling, but not to cool the skin." "Fundamentally, IPLs, diodes, YAGs and Alexandrite lasers, they're all doing exactly the same thing." "I was genuinely surprised because I had gone in with a prejudice, and then my prejudice was completely turned over." 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
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    25 min
  • Common Concerns of Having Laser Hair Removal
    Apr 30 2025
    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 reports of increased hair growth after treatment are likely due to synchronised hair growth, which occurs when hair follicles are treated with insufficient energy, causing them to enter a synchronised growth phase. The effectiveness of laser hair removal is highly dependent on the fluence (energy level) used during treatment. Using a sub-lethal fluence can lead to ineffective results, where hair follicles survive and regrow, while using an appropriate fluence can effectively target and destroy the follicles. Some clients worry that laser treatments can cause their hair to turn grey or white. This is often attributed to the natural ageing process rather than the laser itself, as lasers target melanin in hair. If melanin is disrupted, it may lead to temporary changes in hair colour, but new hair growth should return to its original colour. Scarring can occur if the laser treatment is too aggressive, using excessive fluence without adequate cooling. Ice burns can also happen if ice packs are applied directly from the freezer without allowing them to thaw slightly. Proper cooling techniques are essential to prevent damage to the skin. Both conditions can arise from laser treatments. Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanocytes are stimulated to produce excess melanin, while hypopigmentation happens when these cells are destroyed. Individual factors such as skin type, medication, and sun exposure can influence these risks, making it crucial for clients to discuss their concerns with trained professionals. BEST MOMENTS "Paradoxical hypertrichosis occurs when some of these follicles come into action and start growing hairs in places that they previously didn't." "I get a lot of people saying, um, well, they, they, they won't start laser because they're worried that it'll just grow back thicker. But I'm like, if that happens, they're doing it wrong." "If you remove the follicle, it will work, of course, because then it doesn't matter what the hormones are doing." "Maybe you just got grey hair. I don't know. Maybe it just came in and it's grey and the laser will not be absorbed into the grey hair." "The biggest risk is poor training, which will lead inevitably to poor results." 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
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    28 min
  • Explain Like I'm 5 - How to Safely and Effectively Treat Darker Skin Tones with Lasers
    Apr 23 2025
    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 with enhanced cooling techniques to achieve optimal results. KEY TAKEAWAYS Darker skin has a higher concentration of melanin throughout the epidermis, which absorbs more light energy from lasers, potentially leading to increased temperatures and a higher risk of cellular damage. Contrary to common training advice, using lower fluence and longer pulse widths on darker skin can be counterproductive. Lowering fluence reduces the total energy available for treatment, making it less effective. The ND:YAG laser at 1064 nanometers is preferred for treating darker skin tones because it is absorbed less by melanin, allowing more energy to reach the dermis where treatment is needed. Increased cooling time is essential when treating darker skin to mitigate the higher temperatures generated by increased melanin absorption. Recommended cooling times may be longer for darker skin compared to lighter skin. Practitioners should exercise caution when treating darker skin tones, especially if they are inexperienced. It is advisable to gain more experience before attempting treatments on darker skin to ensure safety and effectiveness. BEST MOMENTS "Darker skin has more melanin than lighter skin. In lighter skin tones, we tend to find most of the melanin resides in the basal layer." "Lowering the fluence is a bad idea. That's just never going to work. You'll end up doing many, many more treatments and you might never get a good result." "If you're going to use high fluences, then you must use much more cooling to compensate before and after the treatments." "The melanin is a barrier, yes, essentially, and it steals energy." "As the skin tone gets darker, you just got to be much more careful. That's basically it in a nutshell." 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
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    14 min