More Than a Pretty Face

Dr. Azadeh Shirazi
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Medicine
  • Updated weekly

Board Certified Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, or "Dr. Azi," takes listeners more than skin deep by answering patient questions, interviewing experts and taking us behind the scenes of her practice. Learn about injectables, entrepreneurship, skincare secrets, lasting success, relationships, lasers and living in La Jolla with one of the most in-demand derms in So Cal.

  1. 5 days ago

    The Truth About Fillers, Surgery, and Natural Aging with Dr. Amir Moradi

    In this episode of More Than a Pretty Face, Dr. Azi sits down with double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Amir Moradi to unpack one of the most talked-about topics in aesthetics: fillers, facelifts, biostimulators, and skin-tightening devices. Together, they break down what patients really need to know about filler migration, the "overfilled" look, Sculptra, Radiesse, RF microneedling, and when surgery may actually be the better option. This conversation cuts through the fear, misinformation, and viral opinions online to give you an honest, expert-backed look at how to age naturally, safely, and beautifully. Timeline of what was discussed: 00:00 - Introduction & Why Aesthetics Feel More Confusing Than Ever 03:00 - Are Fillers Really Preventing Future Facelifts? 04:25 - Why People in Their 30s Usually Don't Need a Facelift 05:45 - When Is Someone a Good Candidate for Fillers? 08:00 - When Is Someone Actually Ready for a Facelift? 11:15 - The Structural Changes Behind Facial Aging 15:20 - Can Botox & Fillers Delay Surgery? 18:45 - What Causes the "Overfilled" Look? 21:40 - The Truth About Filler Migration 24:45 - What Surgeons Actually See During Facelift Surgery 27:45 - Sculptra vs. Radiesse Explained 31:15 - Can Sculptra Replace Fat? 35:00 - RF Microneedling & Skin Tightening Devices 37:45 - Can Energy Devices Destroy Facial Fat? 39:35 - Lazy & Dead Cells Production  40:00 - Evidence of Peptides, mTOR, Rapamycin, Metformin 48:59 - Smash or Pass Questionnaire  ______________________________________________________________ Follow Dr. Moradi on Instagram: @MoradiMD Dr. Amir Moradi is a board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in advanced facial rejuvenation procedures, including facelifts, neck lifts, eyelid surgery, and non-surgical aesthetic treatments. Known for his natural-looking results and meticulous approach, Dr. Moradi is dedicated to helping patients achieve refreshed, balanced, and confident appearances. Learn more about Dr. Moradi's clinic: https://moradimd.com/  ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    56 min

  2. 22 May

    Melanoma Awareness: Sun Safety and Skin Health

    In this episode of More Than a Pretty Face, Dr. Azi and Lacie dive into sun safety, skin cancer awareness, sunscreen myths, and the importance of early detection. In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and with support from the Melanoma Research Foundation, this episode breaks down what you need to know about melanoma, SPF, tanning, and protecting your skin all summer long.  Timeline of what was discussed: 00:00 – Intro 02:00 – Melanoma Awareness 03:30 – Beauty or Blemish 04:10 – Sun Myths 06:00 – Sunburn Damage 08:30 – UV & Skin Cells 10:00 – Skincare Break 11:00 – Tanning Truth 13:00 – UVA vs UVB 14:30 – Skin Cancer Types 16:30 – Skin Cancer in All Skin Tones 18:30 – Skin Checks 20:00 – Melanoma Research Foundation 21:30 – Sunscreen Types 23:00 – Tinted SPF 24:30 – Missed SPF Areas 26:00 – Lips, Scalp & Eyelids 27:30 – TikTok Sunscreen Myths 29:00 – Perineum Tanning 30:00 – Sunscreen Safety 31:30 – How Much SPF to Use 33:00 – Reapplication 35:00 – SPF Numbers 37:00 – Sensitive Skin SPF 39:00 – Family Sun Safety 41:00 – Final Sun Tips 43:00 – Outro ______________________________________________________________ Follow Melanoma Research Foundation on Instagram: @CureMelanoma The Melanoma Research Foundation is the largest independent organization dedicated to melanoma research, education, and advocacy. Focused on advancing early detection, prevention, and treatment, the foundation works to support patients and families affected by melanoma while funding critical research aimed at improving outcomes and ultimately finding a cure. Learn more about Melanoma Research Foundation: linktr.ee/melanomaresearchfoundation  Shop EltaMD Sunscreen Limited Edition: eltamd.com/product  ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    44 min

  3. 23 Apr

    PCOS, Endometriosis & Breast Cancer with Dr. Thais Aliabadi

    In this episode of More Than a Pretty Face, Dr. Azi sits down with renowned OBGYN, Dr. Thais Aliabadi for a powerful, unfiltered conversation on women's health, advocacy, and the realities many patients face within today's healthcare system. From her personal journey with breast cancer to the widespread dismissal of women's symptoms, Dr. Aliabadi shares why truly understanding your body and learning to advocate for yourself can be life changing. The conversation also explores PCOS, hormonal health, and practical, expert backed tools to help women take control of their long term wellbeing. Honest, informative, and deeply empowering, this is a conversation every woman should hear. Timeline of what was discussed: 00:00 – Intro & Guest Introduction 01:00 – Personal Story & Friendship 02:30 – The Reality of Being an OBGYN 04:00 – Passion for Women's Health 05:30 – Skincare, Recovery & Patient Care Philosophy 07:30 – Breast Cancer Journey 10:30 – Why Breast Cancer Risk Awareness Matters 13:00 – Risk Factors & Early Screening 15:00 – AI in Breast Cancer Detection 17:30 – Genetic Testing & Missed Diagnoses 19:30 – Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare 21:00 – Systemic Dismissal of Women's Symptoms 23:00 – Endometriosis: The Hidden Epidemic 26:00 – Transition to PCOS Discussion 27:00 – PCOS Symptoms & Diagnosis Criteria 30:00 – PCOS & Metabolic / Mental Health Impact 32:30 – Fertility Impact & Early Intervention 34:00 – Root Causes of PCOS Explained 36:00 – Ovi Supplement & Treatment Approach 38:00 – Final Thoughts + Outro ______________________________________________________________ Follow Dr. Thais Aliabadi on Instagram: @drthaisaliabadi Dr. Thais Aliabadi is a board certified OBGYN and a leading expert in women's health based in Los Angeles. She specializes in high risk pregnancies, gynecologic care, and complex reproductive health conditions, including PCOS. A trusted voice in patient advocacy, Dr. Aliabadi is known for her commitment to early detection, education, and empowering women to take control of their health. Follow SheMD Podcast on Instagram: @shemdpodcast Learn more about Ovii at https://ovii.com/ Visit important links mentioned in this episode at https://linktr.ee/shemdpodcast  ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    41 min

  4. 11 Mar

    Skin Tightening Treatments With Dr. Arisa Ortiz

    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 ______________________________________________________________ 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. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    31 min

  5. 5 Feb

    Hormonal Acne, Hair Loss, & Lasers: The Truth You Need

    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 ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    31 min

  6. 22 Jan

    Beauty Trends to Leave Behind & What's Next in 2026

    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 ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    35 min

  7. 31/12/2025

    The Rise of Male Aesthetics: Botox, Hair Restoration & More

    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   ______________________________________________________________ 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. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    25 min

  8. 10/12/2025

    Resetting the Skin: Dr. Ibrahimi on Lasers, Oil Control & Real Results

    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   ______________________________________________________________ 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. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    18 min
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About

Board Certified Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, or "Dr. Azi," takes listeners more than skin deep by answering patient questions, interviewing experts and taking us behind the scenes of her practice. Learn about injectables, entrepreneurship, skincare secrets, lasting success, relationships, lasers and living in La Jolla with one of the most in-demand derms in So Cal.

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