Ep 110 The Picosure Laser for Pigmentation & Tattoo Removal | Dr Michelle Rodrigues, Mike Driver & Kylie Rowe

Episode 110 hosts Dr Michelle Rodrigues (Specialist dermatologist), Kylie Rowe (Corporate Account Manager for Cynosure) & Mike Driver, a laser therapist specialising in tattoo removal. (All from Melbourne, Australia) Michelle is globally renowned for her expertise in treating pigmentation and treating skin conditions in those with skin of colour. Mike started his laser business 11 years ago in Brisbane and now has five clinics nationally. He is one of the countries most experienced laser tattoo removalists having performed well over 100,000 treatments. We break the podcast into two distinct sections to discuss some of the key uses of Cynosure's 'Picosure' laser - so called because it was the first laser technology to deliver energy to the skin in a picosecond (a trillionth of a second!)  First Michele explains the common causes of pigmentation, her consultation  technique and strategies for approaching treatment with the Picosure. In the second half, Mike tells us about his journey into tattoo removal, what is involved and why the Picosure is his first choice laser device.  00:00 Introduction 01:04 Meet Our Guests: Dr Michelle Rodrigues, Mike Driver & Kylie Rowe 03:25 What Pigmentation Really Means   07:03 Common Causes of Pigmentation and Risk Factors   10:59 Why Diagnosis Comes Before Treatment   13:31 Sun Exposure, Hormones and Genetics Explained   18:27 Treatment Options From Topicals to Lasers   21:18 When to Use Energy Based Devices   26:25 Choosing the Right Laser for Different Pigment Types   30:08 Risks of Treating Moles and Misdiagnosis   33:29 Patient Consultation and Assessment Process   36:15 Building a Stepwise Treatment Plan   40:13 Managing Expectations and Treatment Timelines   42:46 Treating Darker Skin Types Safely   47:06 Topical Therapies and Maintenance Strategies   52:09 Training and Safety When Introducing New Devices   01:01:45 Cost Considerations and Clinic Investment   01:08:49 Tattoo Removal Technology and How It Works   01:16:38 Factors That Affect Tattoo Removal Success   01:20:09 Treatment Sessions, Healing and Aftercare   01:24:30 Realistic Timelines for Tattoo Clearance   01:28:55 Future Trends in Laser and Tattoo Removal   01:32:40 Final Advice for Patients and Practitioners ALL IA LINKS & CONTACT INFORMATION