Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about phototherapy, PhototherapyLectures.com, and the Masterclass series — answered by Dr. Hamzavi and faculty.
Phototherapy uses controlled doses of ultraviolet (UV) light to treat inflammatory, pigmentary, and proliferative skin diseases. The two most clinically significant wavelengths are NB-UVB (311 nm), which suppresses abnormal T-cell activity and triggers melanogenesis, and UVA1 (340–400 nm), which modulates fibroblast activity and reduces collagen overproduction. When delivered in precise, calibrated doses, phototherapy induces immunosuppression, anti-inflammatory cytokine modulation, and keratinocyte normalization — without systemic drug exposure.
This platform is designed for dermatologists, phototherapy practitioners, dermatology residents and fellows, dermatology nurses, and allied health professionals managing phototherapy units. Content ranges from foundational principles for those new to phototherapy, to advanced clinical protocols and research updates for experienced clinicians seeking CME-level education.
Phototherapy is clinically proven for: Psoriasis (plaque, guttate, palmoplantar), Vitiligo (segmental and non-segmental), Atopic Dermatitis / Eczema, Mycosis Fungoides (Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma), Parapsoriasis, Pityriasis Lichenoides, Morphea and Localized Scleroderma (UVA1), Urticaria Pigmentosa / Mastocytosis (UVA1), Pruritus and Prurigo, and Polymorphic Light Eruption (hardening protocols).
NB-UVB (311 nm) is the cornerstone of phototherapy — used for psoriasis, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, and most inflammatory skin diseases. It penetrates the epidermis and upper dermis, targeting T-cells and melanocytes. UVA1 (340–400 nm) penetrates more deeply into the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, making it uniquely suited for fibrotic conditions like morphea, scleroderma, and lichen sclerosus. The choice of modality depends on diagnosis, disease severity, patient skin type, and treatment goals.
Treatment duration varies by condition and individual response. For psoriasis, meaningful improvement is typically seen between sessions 15–25, with a full course being 30–36 sessions over 8–12 weeks. For vitiligo, depigmentation may begin after 20–30 sessions, but optimal outcomes often require 6–12 months of maintenance therapy. Our Masterclass lectures provide detailed, evidence-based protocol guides including starting doses, incremental dosing schedules, and maintenance strategies for each major indication.
Phototherapy is effective and generally safe across all Fitzpatrick skin types (I through VI), though protocol adjustments are essential. Darker skin types (IV–VI) require modified starting doses and more gradual dose increments to minimise risk of hyperpigmentation. Our dedicated lecture on Phototherapy for Skin of Colour addresses these nuances comprehensively.
Yes. Combination approaches are an active area of clinical research. NB-UVB is successfully combined with topical calcineurin inhibitors for vitiligo, topical corticosteroids and vitamin D analogues for psoriasis, and oral antioxidants to support melanogenesis. Phototherapy combined with JAK inhibitors for vitiligo is an emerging frontier covered in the Masterclass series.
Visit PhototherapyLectures.com, create your clinical account, and select your access plan. Individual lectures are available on-demand, or you may enroll in the full 7-lecture Masterclass series. All content is accessible via desktop, tablet, and mobile.
CME credit availability and accreditation details are listed on each individual lecture page. Please refer to the specific lecture listing or contact us for current accreditation information for your region.
No specialized equipment is required — only a stable internet connection. Clinicians setting up or operating a phototherapy unit will find the equipment modules particularly practical, covering dosimetry principles, lamp calibration, patient safety protocols, and unit maintenance.
Absolutely. PhototherapyLectures.com was designed with trainees explicitly in mind. Our lectures bridge the gap between classroom learning and supervised clinical practice, making them valuable for board preparation and clinical competency in phototherapy.
Our faculty are all active clinicians and researchers who update lectures to reflect landmark publications, revised guidelines, and emerging modalities. Enrolled members receive notifications when content is updated or when new lectures are published.