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.

In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi speaks with two leading dermatology experts about modern aesthetic and hair restoration treatments. First, Beverly Hills cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Ardalan Minokadeh shares how neuromodulators, fillers, and facial contouring should be approached differently in men. Then, New York–based dermatologist Dr. Marc Avram breaks down evidence-based hair loss treatments, from medications and PRP to at-home and in-office laser therapies. The episode wraps with practical insights on confidence, aging, and personalized care.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 – Intro

00:18 – Submit questions

00:34 – Meet Dr. Ardalan

01:05 – Conference context

01:40 – Men & aesthetics

02:25 – Botox dosing in men

03:10 – Brow positioning

03:45 – Crow's feet focus

04:20 – Dosing approach

05:05 – Icing & comfort

06:05 – Lip filler in men

07:15 – Neck & lower face

08:10 – Trap tox

08:55 – Jawline trends

09:35 – Chin projection

10:25 – Rapid-fire Q&A

11:55 – Where to find Dr. Ardalan

12:30 – Transition

12:51 – Meet Dr. Avram

13:05 – Hair restoration overview

13:35 – PP405 discussion

14:25 – Diagnosing hair loss

15:05 – Medical therapy

15:50 – PRP & regeneration

16:35 – Treatment timelines

17:20 – Combination therapy

18:00 – At-home laser caps

18:45 – In-office lasers

19:35 – Laser mechanism

20:20 – Emerging treatments

21:05 – Choosing a laser cap

21:45 – Supplements

22:50 – Where to find Dr. Avram

23:14 – End

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Follow Ardalan Minokadeh on Instagram: @doctor.ardalan

Dr. Ardalan Minokadeh is a board-certified, cosmetic fellowship–trained dermatologist based in Beverly Hills. He specializes in advanced injectable treatments, aesthetic dermatology, and facial balancing for both men and women. Known for his precise, anatomy-driven approach, Dr. Minokadeh is an expert in neuromodulators and dermal fillers, with a strong focus on natural, tailored results and patient-centered care.

Follow Marc Avram on Instagram: @drmarcavram

Dr. Marc Avram is a board-certified dermatologist and internationally recognized leader in hair restoration and cosmetic dermatology, based on New York City's Upper East Side. He is the author of multiple textbooks and peer-reviewed publications and is widely regarded for his expertise in medical, regenerative, and laser-based hair loss treatments. Dr. Avram is known for his evidence-based approach, clinical innovation, and dedication to personalized patient care.

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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, 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 talks with Dr. Omar Ibrahimi about the newest acne innovations, including 1726 nm lasers like AviClear and Acure, and why fractional resurfacing remains a top-value treatment. They compare laser technology to Accutane, discuss benefits for oily skin and sebaceous hyperplasia, and end with rapid-fire questions and insights on how deeply skin health affects confidence.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 – Intro

00:16 – How to submit questions

00:31 – Meet Dr. Omar Ibrahimi

01:07 – Conference impressions & background

01:42 – Best value treatment: fractional resurfacing

02:25 – How resurfacing boosts skin health

02:52 – Acne basics, gaps in treatment & scarring prevention

04:28 – Need for sebaceous-targeting tech

06:28 – Selective laser targeting explained

06:40 – Acne wavelengths (blue/red, 1064)

07:06 – How lasers affect bacteria, inflammation & oil

07:31 – 1726 nm lasers introduced

08:02 – Why 1726 nm targets sebum

08:17 – Comparison to Accutane

09:12 – Shrinking glands without systemic effects

09:41 – AviClear vs. Acure

10:00 – FDA clearance & features

10:17 – Acure temperature-tracking

11:21 – Ensuring proper heating

12:11 – Patient experience

12:50 – Uses beyond acne

13:28 – Sebum as a laser target

14:16 – Oil-control benefits

14:26 – Rapid-fire Q&A

16:00 – Quality-of-life impact

16:24 – Final remarks

16:31 – Dr. Azi's message

16:41 – Outro & gratitude

17:27 – Review + share reminders

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Follow Omar Ibrahimi on Instagram: @ctskindoc

Dr. Omar Ibrahimi is a board-certified, laser fellowship–trained dermatologist and the founding medical director of the Connecticut Skin Institute. With advanced training from Harvard, MGH, and the Wellman Center for Photomedicine, he is a nationally recognized expert in laser and energy-based devices, Mohs surgery, and acne innovation. He is known for his research-driven approach and commitment to safe, effective, patient-centered care.

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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, 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 speaks with Dr. Tomi Wall about modern rosacea management, including pulsed-dye lasers, V-Beam, combination treatments, and intradermal Botox for flushing. She then sits down with Dr. Monica Boen to discuss the resurgence of CO₂ and Erbium resurfacing lasers, evolving technology, and the cautious excitement around regenerative treatments like exosomes and PDRN. Both dermatologists share practical skincare advice, treatment philosophy, and their go-to in-office approaches for natural, effective results.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 – Podcast intro & welcome
00:07 – Introducing Dr. Tomi Wall
00:55 – Why rosacea emotionally affects patients
01:40 – Types of rosacea explained
02:35 – Top at-home treatments (azelaic acid, ivermectin, sulfur)
03:40 – In-office vascular treatments with PDL
04:40 – How vascular lasers improve rosacea
05:25 – V-Beam for scarring
06:15 – Best timing to start scar laser treatment
07:15 – Treating bruising immediately after filler
08:10 – V-Beam settings for bruising
09:00 – Botox for flushing & neurovascular mechanisms
10:00 – Dilution, dosing, safety precautions
11:05 – Topicals for temporary redness & rebound effects
12:00 – Rapid-fire questions
13:25 – Close of interview 1

15:25 – Introducing Dr. Boen & her practice
15:55 – Why CO₂ & Erbium ablative lasers are returning
16:35 – What ablative lasers do & why patients accept downtime
17:25 – UltraPulse CO₂ & Erbium for deep resurfacing
18:10 – UltraClear: lighter resurfacing with minimal downtime
19:10 – Choosing mild vs aggressive resurfacing settings
19:55 – Combination treatments (Pico, PDL, Fraxel, Clear & Brilliant)
20:40 – PDRN ("salmon DNA"): buzz vs data
21:40 – Exosomes: potential & regulatory concerns
22:50 – Real complications seen from unregulated injectables
23:35 – Dr. Boen's personal favorite treatments
24:10 – Daily skincare must-haves (SPF, retinoids, antioxidants)
25:00 – LED masks: when they help and when they don't
25:55 – Final message: patient education matters
26:40 – Podcast closing & where to submit questions

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Follow Tomi Wall on Instagram: @dr.tomileewall

Dr. Tomi Wall is a laser fellowship–trained, board-certified dermatologist based in Northern California. With advanced training from Harvard Medical School and extensive experience teaching residents at Stanford, she specializes in vascular and laser-based treatments for rosacea, scarring, and inflammatory skin conditions. Dr. Wall is known for her research-informed approach, dedication to patient-centered care, and expertise in combination therapy to achieve natural, evidence-based outcomes.

Follow Monica Boen on Instagram: @drmonicaboen

Dr. Monica Boen is a board-certified dermatologist practicing in San Diego with advanced specialization in aesthetic and procedural dermatology. Trained in ablative and regenerative laser surgery, she is recognized for bringing modern innovation to legacy resurfacing technologies such as CO₂ and Erbium lasers. Dr. Boen is known for her comprehensive treatment planning, commitment to clinical safety, and ability to blend multiple modalities for powerful yet natural skin rejuvenation results.

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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, 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 talks with Dr. Rishi Chopra, a New York–based dermatologist recognized as the Pfizer Rising Derm Star of 2021. They discuss filler fatigue, the shift toward skin tightening treatments, and new innovations in regenerative aesthetics such as Avava laser and PDRN injectables. Dr. Chopra shares insights on emerging devices, collagen banking, and his go-to treatments for natural, long-lasting results.

Timeline of what was discussed:
00:00 – Introduction

01:05 – Meet Dr. Rishi Chopra

02:00 – Why patients are developing "filler fear"

03:10 – How overfilling and poor training led to unnatural results

04:05 – The missing link: skin tightening vs. constant filling

05:00 – Introducing Avava, the first laser that tightens and lifts skin

06:00 – How Avava compares to Thermage, Softwave, and Ulthera

06:50 – The science behind Avava's energy delivery & collagen stimulation

07:45 – Visible results: why Dr. Chopra calls it the "Benjamin Button" laser

08:20 – Downtime, safety, and results for different skin types

08:48 – Transition to regenerative injectables & biostimulators

09:00 – What is PDRN (salmon DNA) and how it works for skin rejuvenation

10:05 – FDA status and why Korea is leading in regenerative aesthetics

11:00 – Comparing PDRN, exosomes, and PRP

11:55 – Long-term collagen regeneration & skin quality improvements

12:45 – Discussion on SkinVive and its subtle hydration benefits

13:40 – Biostimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse) for natural rejuvenation

14:45 – Addressing safety & facelift myths around biostimulators

15:55 – Rapid-fire Q&A with Dr. Chopra

16:10 – Favorite treatment right now: Avava laser

1 6:50 – Downtime and results for all skin types

17:30 – Quick lifestyle Q&A: Hamptons or cabin? Brooklyn summers?

18:25 – Research vs. hands-on dermatology

19:10 – Where to find Dr. Rishi Chopra

19:35 – Dr. Azi's closing thoughts & outro

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Follow Rishi Chopra on Instagram: @rishichopramd

Book an appointment with Dr. Chopra: www.unionderm.com/doctors/dr-rishi-chopra/

Dr. Rishi Chopra is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and the 2021 Pfizer Rising Derm Star. He specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology with a focus on injectables, regenerative aesthetics, and laser innovation. Dr. Chopra practices at UnionDerm, where he's known for his evidence-based approach, cutting-edge techniques, and natural-looking results.

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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, 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.