Is Skin Cooling Important for All Technologies
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 away from the skin. The duo also addresses common misconceptions about air and cryo cooling systems, emphasising that while they can be effective, they often fall short in providing the same level of cooling as ice packs. KEY TAKEAWAYS Effective cooling is crucial during laser treatments to prevent pain and thermal damage to surrounding tissues. Cooling should be applied before, during, and after the treatment. When using lasers, light energy is converted into heat, which raises the temperature of both the target and surrounding tissues. To avoid triggering pain (nociceptor activation) and damaging collagen, it's essential to keep temperatures below 45 degrees Celsius. Ice packs, when used with a water-based gel, are more effective than air cooling systems. The gel enhances heat transfer, allowing for quicker cooling of the skin, which is vital for protecting nerve endings and preventing unwanted thermal damage. Just as heating requires time to be effective, cooling also needs to be applied for a sufficient duration. For optimal results, ice packs should be left on the skin for at least two minutes to ensure adequate cooling. While air and cryo cooling systems can provide some level of cooling, they may not be as effective as ice packs due to their inability to maintain the necessary temperature for the required duration. Users often report discomfort with cryo systems, preferring ice packs for a more comfortable experience. BEST MOMENTS "If you're going to be deliberately heating the skin, then you need to also deliberately cool simultaneously to not only reduce the pain sensation, but also reduce any unwanted thermal damage." "You don't need gel in the skin, but more importantly, it enhances the heat transfer from the skin into the cooling agent." "Cooling is kind of like inverse heating. You need to apply it for a given time to induce the desired effect." "If you put ice on the skin surface with some gel, and you leave it for two minutes, then the top of the dermis will drop down to two degrees Celsius." "Ultimately, our advice is always to use ice packs. It absolutely sucks, but oh my gosh, it's so much better for everybody." 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
UK