CME 2026 ASLMS 45th Annual Conference Recordings - The Red Light District: What's New in Photobiomodulation
The course was recorded on May 9, 2026, at the ASLMS Annual Conference.
Course Description: Photobiomodulation (PBM) is rapidly becoming a game changer in procedural dermatology and laser medicine as wavelength specificity, devices, and dosing strategies mature. This session reviews mechanisms and practical protocols for red/NIR, blue, and green light therapies, with a focus on clinical integration: post-procedure recovery, wound healing, Mohs recovery, flaps/grafts, and high-yield medical/aesthetic indications including acne, AKs, photodamage/wrinkles, inflammation, hair growth, pigmentary disorders, oral ulcerations, and radiation dermatitis. We’ll cover device selection, dosing, timing, safety, and combination strategies with energy-based devices and topical agents. Expert panel discussion and case-based learning will provide a clear framework for incorporating PBM into multimodal plans to reduce downtime and improve outcomes.
COURSE DIRECTORS: Ellen S. Marmur, MD; David M. Ozog, MD
FACULTY PANELISTS: Rox Anderson, MD –Professor (dermatology) Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; Robert A. Weiss, MD, FAAD – Assoc Prof of Dermatology, U of MD; Ellen S. Marmur, MD – Owner/Founder, Marmur Medical & MMSkincare; Jody Comstock, MD – Cosmetic and Procedural Dermatologist, Skin Spectrum; David M. Ozog, MD – Department Chair, Henry Ford Health, Department of Dermatology, Detroit, MI; Faculty: Jared Jagdeo, MD, MS – Dermatologist, SUNY Downstate
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
At the end of the activity, learners should be able to:
- Describe the key biological mechanisms by which red, blue, and green light influence skin biology in photobiomodulation (PBM)—including wavelength-dependent targets, depth of penetration, and downstream effects on inflammation, oxidative signaling, neuromodulation/pain, microcirculation, and tissue remodeling—and explain why these mechanisms matter when translating PBM into real-world dermatologic and aesthetic outcomes.
- Identify evidence-based clinical indications for PBM across dermatology and aesthetics, and match the right wavelength (and delivery approach) to common conditions by considering the primary therapeutic goal (anti-inflammatory vs antimicrobial vs pigment modulation vs pain/neuromodulation vs wound repair), tissue depth, skin type, and procedural context—while recognizing where the evidence is strong, emerging, or mixed.
- Apply practical PBM treatment protocols in clinic, including how to choose and standardize parameters (irradiance, fluence, pulse structure when relevant, treatment duration, spot size/coverage, frequency, and course length), how to time PBM relative to procedures (pre-conditioning, immediate post-procedure, and recovery phase), and how to use combination strategies (e.g., PBM with lasers/energy devices, injectables, topicals, wound care, or systemic approaches) without compromising safety or efficacy.
- Integrate PBM into multimodal treatment plans and post-procedure recovery pathways by building condition-specific and procedure-specific workflows (patient selection, contraindications/precautions, documentation, and outcome tracking), setting realistic expectations, and leveraging PBM as an adjunct to improve comfort, shorten downtime, support barrier repair, and enhance overall patient-reported and clinician-rated outcomes.
TARGET AUDIENCE:
This activity is intended for an audience of physicians and other healthcare professionals interested in the use of lasers, light, energy-based devices, and related technologies across various specialties.
PRESENTATIONS:
Mechanisms of Action and Validation of Early Photobiomodulation Research | Rox Anderson, MD –Professor (dermatology) Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
Clinical Use and Early Research: Darkness Before the Dawn | Robert A. Weiss, MD, FAAD – Assoc Prof of Dermatology, U of MD
Green Light Science: Biological Rationale, Dosing, and Emerging Evidence | Ellen S. Marmur, MD – Owner/Founder, Marmur Medical & MMSkincare
Laser for Tattoos and Pigmented Lesions | Jody Comstock, MD – Cosmetic and Procedural Dermatologist, Skin Spectrum
Clinical Applications of PBM: Acne, Pigment, Inflammation, Actinic Keratoses, and Recovery | David M. Ozog, MD – Department Chair, Henry Ford Health, Department of Dermatology, Detroit, MI
Pitfalls, Adverse Effects, and Common Clinical Mistakes in PBM | Faculty: Jared Jagdeo, MD, MS – Dermatologist, SUNY Downstate
DISCLOSURES:
The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS) adheres to the policies and guidelines, including the Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited CE, set forth to providers by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), stating those activities where continuing education credits are awarded must be balanced, independent, objective, and scientifically rigorous. All persons in a position to control the content of an accredited continuing education program provided by ASLMS are required to disclose all financial relationships with any ineligible company within the past 24 months. All financial relationships reported are identified as relevant and mitigated by ASLMS in accordance with the Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited CE in advance of delivery of the activity to learners. The content of this activity was vetted by ASLMS to assure objectivity and that the activity is free of commercial bias. All relevant financial relationships have been mitigated by ASLMS.
All planners and faculty for this educational activity, except for those listed below, have no financial relationship(s) to disclose with ineligible companies whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.
- David M. Ozog, MD discloses the following financial relationships: Biofrontera: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Cutera: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Galderma: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Michelson Diagnostics: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Sciton: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution)
- Rox Anderson, MD discloses the following financial relationships: AVAVA: Stock Options Holder; Cytrellis Biosystems: Stock Options Holder; MassGeneralBrigham: Royalty/Patent Beneficiary; R2 Dermatology: Consulting Fees (e.g., advisory boards)
- Robert A. Weiss, MD, FAAD discloses the following financial relationships: Allergan/Abbvie: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Boston Aesthetics: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Cynosure Lutronic: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Fotona: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Galderma Laboratories: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Jetema: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Lutronic: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Medytox: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution); Novoxel: Contracted Research (Principal Investigators must provide information, even if received by the institution)
- Jody Comstock, MD – Cosmetic and Procedural Dermatologist, Skin Spectrum, discloses the following financial relationships: L'oreal: Honoraria; Revance Aesthetics: Consulting Fees (e.g., advisory boards), Honoraria; SkinBetter Science: Consulting Fees (e.g., advisory boards), Honoraria; SofWave: Honoraria; Solta Medical: Honoraria; ZO Skin Health, Inc: Consulting Fees (e.g., advisory boards)
- Jared Jagdeo, MD, MS discloses the following financial relationships: Global MedTech: Consulting Fees (e.g., advisory boards)
ASLMS staff planners and reviewers have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.
ACCME Accreditation Statement:
The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Credit Designation Statement:
The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Inc. designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Nursing Credits:
This enduring material is eligible for 2.0 CE credits if you are a Registered Nurse. These credits are provided with co-sponsorship with the Laser Training Institute division of Professional Medical Education Association.
Instructions for Learners to Receive Credit:
To receive a Certificate of Credit or a Certificate of Participation for the On-Demand (2026) course, registered attendees must submit a completed electronic CME/CE evaluation by the course expiration date (11/30/26).
This course should take approximately 1.5 hours to complete.
REFUND/CANCELLATION POLICY:
For questions related to claiming CME or CE credits, please contact education1@aslms.org or call (715) 845-9283.
- Refund requests will only be considered if made within 14 days of purchase.
- Refunds will only be considered if you have not yet started the course (no content viewed).
- Refunds are not available for missed live activities.
- Contact information@aslms.org to request a refund.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
For questions related to claiming CME or CE credits, please contact education1@aslms.org or call (715) 845-9283.
DISCLAIMER:
Participants have an implied responsibility to use the newly acquired information to enhance patient outcomes and their own professional development. The information presented in this activity is not meant to serve as a guideline for patient management. Any procedures, medications, or other courses of diagnosis or treatment discussed in this activity should not be used by clinicians without evaluation of patient conditions and possible contraindications on dangers in use, review of any applicable manufacturer’s product information, and comparison with recommendations of other authorities.
DISCLOSURE OF OFF-LABEL USE:
This educational activity may contain discussion of published and/or investigational uses of agents that are not indicated by the FDA. The American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery does not recommend the use of any agent outside of the labeled indications.
The opinions expressed in this educational activity are those of the faculty and do not necessarily represent the views of any organization associated with this activity. Please refer to the official prescribing information for each product for discussion of approved indications, contraindications and warnings.
Ellen Marmur, MD (Moderator)
Owner/Founder
Marmur Medical & MMSkincare
Dr. Ellen Marmur is a dermatologic surgeon with over 20 years of expertise in laser medicine, photodynamic therapy, and energy-based devices. She is the Founder and CEO of Marmur Medical and MMSkincare, and the inventor of MMSphere, an FDA-cleared, patented LED system recognized as the #1 dermatologist-invented LED device. A leader in green LED light therapy, Dr. Marmurâs translational researchâconducted in collaboration with Rockefeller Universityâs RNA Sequencing Labâdemonstrates molecular changes associated with reduced inflammation and enhanced wound-healing pathways. She is a Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai and has served in national leadership roles within ASDS and AAD, including Scientific Chair of ASDS and prior Chair of Philanthropy. She has raised over $2.8 million for skin cancer prevention initiatives.
David Ozog, MD (Moderator)
Chair Department of Dermatology Henry Ford Health, Professor in Medicine Michigan State University
David M. Ozog, currently serves as Chair, Department of Dermatology and holds the C.S. Livingood Chair in Dermatology, at Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan. He is also an active Mohs surgeon and Director of Cosmetic Dermatology. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan where he was a James B. Angell 4.0 GPA Scholar, completed post baccalaureate work at Bryn Mawr in Philadelphia and his medical degree from University of Rochester Medical School, Rochester, New York, where he was awarded AOA honors society. He completed his dermatology residency at Henry Ford Hospital, in Detroit, where he served as Chief Resident. His Mohs, Cosmetic and Procedural fellowship was with Dr. Ron Moy at UCLA Medical Center and Moy-Fincher Medical Group, in Beverly Hills, CA. He has published more than 90 articles and book chapters and has given hundreds of lectures nationally and internationally in various facets of procedural dermatology. His textbook, co-edited with Joel Cohen, Botulinum Toxins: Cosmetic and Clinical Applications, was published in 2017. Dr Ozog has directed sessions at the American Academy of Dermatology's annual meeting for several years. He was a member of the AAD coding committee, and he currently serves on the AAD Scientific Assembly Committee for a six-year term. He is scheduled to chair both Summer and Annual AAD meetings. He is also an editorial board member of JAMA Dermatology and an assistant editor of Dermatologic Surgery. His active research interests include cutaneous oncology, scarring prevention and treatment, botulinum toxins, as well as laser delivery for cosmetic and malignant conditions. He has trained more than 76 residents in dermatological surgery and was chosen by the residents as “Teacher of the Year.” Dr Ozog has taught hands on workshops nationally for the American Society for Dermatological Surgery, and he is co-director of the cadaver lab at Henry Ford. He enjoys biking and spending time with his wife Dawnmarie and their three children. Although his research group successfully pivoted to COVID work during the pandemic, he is thrilled to return to lasers and oncology, leaving spike proteins behind (hopefully forever).
R Rox Anderson, MD
Professor (dermatology)
1. Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 2. Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
Dr. Rox Anderson, MD is the Lancer Endowed Chair in Dermatology and Director of the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School in Boston MA, where he practices dermatology, teaches and performs research. Many of the medical laser and optical diagnostic systems now in widespread use, stem from research and development in his laboratory. These include lasers that use selective photothermolysis for treatment of cutaneous vascular and pigmented lesions, hair removal, tattoos, scars and acne. Fractional laser treatments, tissue cooling for selective fat reduction, and the first reflectance confocal microscope for human use also came from Dr. Anderson's laboratory. He also contributed to vascular-selective laser treatments in the larynx, and laser lithotripsy. His early work includes basic research on the optics of human tissues, optical radiation transport, and mechanisms of photosensitization. Current work includes new treatments for skin tumors of NF-1 neurofibromatosis, and development of injectable ice for cryolipolysis treatment of pain and sleep apnea. All of these contributions were made possible by teamwork and extensive collaborations, from early resesarch through clinical applications. Dr. Anderson has trained more than 50 full-time MD fellows in dermatology, many students and postdoctoral ressearch fellows, and has contributed about 300 original scientific and clinical research publications. He co-founded, teaches and serves at laser treatment clinics in Vietnam and Armenia that provide free care for children. He is a past president of ASLMS.
Robert Weiss, MD, FAAD
Director
Maryland Dermatology Laser Skin and Vein Institute
Dr. Robert A. Weiss, MD, FAAD has served as President of three major dermatology and laser organizations and has served or is currently serving on Medical Advisory Boards of numerous companies in the aesthetic dermatology field. He is former Associate Professor of Dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and currently is an Associate Professor of Dermatology at the University of Maryland. His education included Columbia University, BA, Johns Hopkins U School of Medicine, MD and fellowship training in dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He also sought additional fellowship training at the National Institutes of Health, Immunology Division. Besides serving as President of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and the American College of Phlebology, he remains very active in teaching for ASDS, ASLMS, and the American Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Weiss has also served multiple years on the Board of the American Academy of Dermatology. Dr. Weiss has been a featured speaker for the AAD, ASDS, and ASLMS for over 25 years, as well as speaking at many other national and international dermatology and cosmetic societies. He has received numerous international awards of recognition. A prolific author of over 150 peer reviewed articles and a dozen textbooks including “Vein Diagnosis & Treatment: A Comprehensive Approach,” published by McGraw-Hill, and “Cosmetic Dermatology.”
Dr. Weiss has also served on the American Board of Dermatology, preparing questions for board certification of dermatologists. He is currently Fellowship Director of the ASDS cosmetic fellowship and mentors dermatology fellows in lasers, filler, botulinums and advanced vein treatments at the Maryland Dermatology, Laser, Skin and Vein Institute in Baltimore. Dr. Weiss also holds multiple patents for medical devices and biotechnologies. His expertise on cosmetic dermatology innovations has led to his appearances on TV shows such as “20/20” and “The Today Show.” Dr. Weiss has served as Assistant and Contributing Editor for the journal Dermatologic Surgery and Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. Dr. Weiss’ actively researches novel lasers and light sources for the treatment of photoaging, vascular lesions, and pigmented lesions as well as fillers and botulinum toxins. He has helped to develop new methods of non-invasive varicose vein treatments, such as endovenous ablation to replace stripping, and assisted with research leading to FDA clearance of newest methods of reversing photoaging by lasers and light sources. Dr. Weiss is actively participating as Principle Investigator in phase II and phase III FDA clinical trials for botulinums, fillers, lasers, energy based devices and dermatologic conditions such as eczema and vitiligo. Dr. Weiss receives frequent media requests for his opinions on the newest cosmetic treatments and devices. He is currently Director of Maryland Dermatology, Laser, Skin & Vein Institute funded in 1991.
Jody Comstock, MD
Cosmetic and Procedural Dermatologist
Skin Spectrum
Jody A. Comstock, MD
Founder, Skin Spectrum
USDP Medical Director, Skin Spectrum and Body Spectrum
Associate Clinical Professor, University of Arizona Department of Dermatology
Cosmetic Medical Director, skinbetter Science®
Fellow/Member, American Academy of Dermatology, American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, Womenâs Dermatological Society, American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, Arizona Dermatology Society
Dr. Jody Comstock is board-certified in both dermatology and pediatrics. She completed her dermatology residency at the University of Arizona after earning her medical degree from Michigan State University. As a highly sought-after dermatologist practicing in Tucson, Arizona, Dr. Comstock has been at the forefront of cosmetic and procedural dermatology for over 30 years. She is the founder of Skin Spectrum, a center of excellence dedicated to helping thousands of men and women achieve optimal skin health.
Dr. Comstockâs expertise extends beyond dermatology. Her approach integrates the latest in skin health with hormone optimization, nutrition, diet, and lifestyle management, influenced by her husbandâs 25-year Anti-Aging medical practice. This holistic approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive, inside-out care, blending cutting-edge treatments with evidence-based wellness strategies.
Recognized as a leader in her field, Dr. Comstock is a master trainer in the delivery techniques of neuromodulators and soft tissue fillers. She frequently ranks among the top injectors in the country and teaches advanced techniques to other healthcare professionals. She is also certified in a wide range of laser systems, with a particular passion for CO2 laser resurfacing and CO2 laser blepharoplasty. Her philosophy centers on customized, combination treatments to achieve natural, long-lasting skin rejuvenation.
Dr. Comstock is actively engaged in medical entrepreneurship, business strategy, office culture, patient assessment, and space planning. She serves as the Cosmetic Medical Director for skinbetter Science®, an Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Arizona, and Medical Director of Skin Spectrum and Body Spectrum. With a steadfast commitment to transformational leadership, Dr. Comstock continues to drive innovation in dermatology while delivering on her vision for exceptional patient care and professional excellence.
Jared Jagdeo, MD, MS
Dermatologist
SUNY Downstate
Jared Jagdeo, M.D., M.S., is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and Director of the Center for Photomedicine at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. Dr. Jagdeo established the Laser, Aesthetics and Body Institute to bring state-of-the-art laser technology and comprehensive cosmetic services for dermatology patients at SUNY Downstate. As a leader in the field of lasers and light-based medicine, he is dedicated to providing world-class, compassionate care to his patients and to helping them achieve their skincare and aesthetic goals.
As a physician-scientist, his research focuses include cutaneous photobiology, wound healing, fibrosis, skin cancer, immunology, and procedural dermatology. He has co-authored approximately 200 peer-reviewed journal articles, as well as edited several books and co-authored book chapters. Dr. Jagdeo has received awards and honors, including the NIH-UC Davis CTSC K12 Mentored Career Development Award, NIH-UC Davis Innovation Grant, designation as an American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Future Leader, the Laser Florence Young Dermatologist Abstract Competition 1st Place Winner and the Dr. Horace Furumoto Innovations Young Investigator Award from the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery.
A native of Brooklyn, Dr. Jagdeo is happy to return to New York to establish the Center for Photomedicine and Laser, Aesthetics & Body Institute.
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