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. They emphasise that while visual reactions like swollen follicles or erythema can be appealing, they do not necessarily correlate with treatment success. KEY TAKEAWAYS The phenomenon of 'popping hairs' or 'jumping hairs' observed during laser treatments does not indicate the efficacy of the treatment. It is primarily caused by steam formation in the hair follicle, which can force superficial hairs out but does not necessarily mean the follicle itself has been effectively treated. Commonly cited clinical endpoints, such as swollen follicles or erythema (redness), do not guarantee successful treatment outcomes. Successful hair removal can occur without these visible signs, and their absence does not imply ineffective treatment. As laser hair removal treatments progress, the hair follicles can become synchronised in their growth cycles. This means that after several sessions, more hairs may appear to be growing back at the same time, which can lead to the misconception that the treatment is failing. The goal of laser hair removal is to induce enough damage to the hair follicle without harming surrounding tissue. Chasing visible reactions like folliculitis can lead to unnecessary tissue damage and is not a reliable indicator of treatment success. The hair growth cycle consists of different stages (anagen, catagen, telogen), and effective laser treatments primarily target hairs in the anagen phase. Popping hairs are often in the telogen phase, which are not the target for effective hair removal. BEST MOMENTS "In Germany, they use the term jumping hairs, which refers to the phenomenon of hairs rapidly exploding or being ejected from the follicle immediately after laser irradiation." "Popping hairs are not clinical endpoints. It looks really cool, but it’s not a clinical endpoint." "If you do that and those hairs pop out, that doesn't necessarily mean that the follicle has been sufficiently damaged." "You want to induce enough damage to do the job, but not so much that you're damaging everything else." "If you're not getting popping hairs, do not worry. As long as you're getting results and people are happy, you're great." 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/