In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi sits down with board-certified dermatologist,
Dr. Arisa Ortiz, to break down the science behind skin tightening and today's most popular
non-invasive treatments. They discuss how collagen changes with age, how ultrasound
technology like Softwave works, and how it compares to other options like Ultherapy and RF
microneedling. The conversation also covers combination treatments, common patient concerns
about fat loss and filler, and how dermatologists approach natural-looking rejuvenation without
surgery. Dr. Arisa also shares insights on her AI platform designed to help educate patients
before their appointments, plus a rapid-fire round of skincare favorites.
Timeline of what was discussed:
00:00 - Intro + Meet Dr. Arisa Ortiz
01:02 - Why Skin Tightening Is So Popular
01:54 - What Skin Tightening Actually Means
04:00 - Softwave vs Ultherapy
05:03 - How Ultrasound Targets Collagen
08:01 - Areas You Can Treat With Softwave
08:42 - AziMD Skincare Break
09:49 - Combining Softwave + Radiesse
11:30 - When You'll See Results
12:13 - Science Behind Softwave
15:43 - Best Age to Start Skin Tightening
18:21 - Threads: Pros & Risks
21:49 - FDA Warning on RF Microneedling
24:00 - Favorite Treatments Dr. Arisa Does
25:33 - AI Platform: Your Pre-Visit
29:27 - Rapid Fire Skincare Questions
30:38 - Final Thoughts + Outro
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Follow Dr. Arisa Ortiz on Instagram: @arisaortizmd
Dr. Arisa Ortiz is a board-certified dermatologist and the Director of Laser and Cosmetic
Dermatology at UC San Diego. She specializes in laser treatments, skin rejuvenation, and
non-invasive cosmetic procedures. A nationally and internationally recognized expert, Dr. Ortiz
has published numerous peer-reviewed articles and lectures on advanced dermatologic and
aesthetic technologies. Known for her research-driven approach, she focuses on safe, effective
treatments that deliver natural-looking results.

Follow Sofwave on Instagram: @sofwavemed
SofwaveTM is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive ultrasound treatment designed to improve skin
laxity and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Using advanced ultrasound technology, Sofwave
delivers controlled heat to the mid-dermis to stimulate collagen and elastin production—helping
to tighten and lift the skin over time. The treatment is safe for all skin types, requires little to no
downtime, and is commonly used on the face, neck, and other areas where skin firmness and
texture need improvement.
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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast,
@skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email
morethanaprettyfacepodcast@gmail.com.
Shop skincare at https://azimdskincare.com and learn more about the practice at
https://www.lajollalaserderm.com/
The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and
does not constitute formal medical advice. © Azadeh Shirazi, MD FAAD.

In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi and Nurse Lacie answer listener-submitted questions on skin health, beauty, and wellness. From hormonal acne and oily skin routines to acne scarring, laser treatments, and red light therapy, they break down what actually works and what's worth skipping. The conversation also explores regenerative treatments like Sculptra, practical tips for hair growth with minoxidil, and how to make smart, personalized decisions when it comes to aesthetic care.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 - Intro

00:47 - Listener Questions Kickoff

01:41 - Men & Skincare Trends

03:43 - Favorite Procedure: Skin Lifts

05:08 - Thank You + Subscribe

05:31 - Hormonal Acne Explained

07:45 - Best Treatments for Hormonal Acne

10:39 - Skincare for Oily Skin

12:50 - Acne Scarring Options

13:35 - Best Lasers for Rejuvenation

15:26 - Resurfacing vs Light Lasers

17:23 - What Is Milia?

18:34 - Preventing Milia

19:03 - Does Red Light Therapy Work?

21:21 - Sculptra Explained

24:32 - How to Use Minoxidil

27:33 - Minoxidil + PRP Results

29:18 - Final Thoughts & Outro

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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email morethanaprettyfacepodcast@gmail.com.

Shop skincare at https://azimdskincare.com and learn more about the practice at https://www.lajollalaserderm.com/

The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice. © Azadeh Shirazi, MD FAAD.

In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi and Nurse Lacie reflect on the biggest beauty, skincare, and wellness trends of 2025 and decide which ones should be left behind. From wellness becoming the new status symbol to the rise (and risks) of injectable peptides, skin boosters, and longevity treatments, they break down what's exciting, what's overhyped, and what truly works.

The conversation also dives into intentional skincare, regenerative treatments like PRP, exosomes, and PDRN (salmon DNA), and why proper cosmetic evaluation matters more than ever. The episode wraps with a candid discussion on extreme aesthetics, filler fear, and embracing individuality in 2026.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 – Intro

2:40 — Beauty & Blemish

6:30 — Healthy Skin = Beauty

9:30 — Skin & Body Health

12:30 — Peptides Talk

16:30 — NAD & Longevity

19:30 — Skin Boosters

21:30 — Salmon Sperm

24:30 — Treatment Myths

26:45 — Intentional Skincare

29:05 — Individual Beauty

32:00 — Filler Myths

34:00 — Wrap

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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email morethanaprettyfacepodcast@gmail.com.

Shop skincare at https://azimdskincare.com and learn more about the practice at https://www.lajollalaserderm.com/

The content of this podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes and does not constitute formal medical advice. © Azadeh Shirazi, MD FAAD.