More Than a Pretty Face

Dr. Azadeh Shirazi
  • 4.8 (144)
  • 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. 4D AGO

    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

  2. 12/10/2025

    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

  3. 11/26/2025

    Modern Rosacea & Resurfacing: Expert Insights with Dr. Walls & Dr. Boen

    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   ______________________________________________________________ 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. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    28 min

  4. 11/12/2025

    Filler Fatigue & Skin Tightening: Dr. Rishi Chopra Reveals What's Next in Aesthetics

    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 ______________________________________________________________ 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. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    22 min

  5. 10/29/2025

    From Dark Circles to Body Sculpting: Harvard-Trained Dermatologists Share Their Secrets

    In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi sits down with Harvard-trained dermatologists Dr. Karen Kagha Abisogun and Dr. Aria Vazirnia to talk about all things skin science and aesthetics. From treating stubborn under-eye hyperpigmentation in diverse skin tones to mastering advanced liposuction and body contouring techniques, they share expert insights, treatment pearls, and wellness tips for achieving confident, natural results.     Timeline of What Was Discussed 00:30 – Meet guest: Dr. Karen Kagha 01:08 – Topic intro: periorbital hyperpigmentation 01:53 – How to tell pigment vs. other causes of dark circles 02:51 – "Filler or PRP won't fix it" — can make it worse 03:16 – Top cause #1: volume loss (fat pad changes, weight loss) 04:01 – When to treat pigment vs. replace volume 05:04 – Topicals for eyes: hydroquinone, cysteamine (tolerability concerns) 06:35 – Laser approach: 1927 nm Fraxel (go-to) 07:30 – Start low / low-density laser strategy to reduce PIH risk 07:55 – Sun protection & HelioCare (oral photoprotection) 08:36 – Tinted physical SPFs / iron oxides for melanin-rich skin 09:26 – Post-laser care: bland emollients, avoid irritating actives 09:52 – Steroid use: cautious — avoid directly on eyelid; use elsewhere if needed 10:25 – Nutrition & hydration for healing (whole foods, protein, avoid excess salt/alcohol) 11:22 – Allergies / hidden triggers (eye creams, scented candles, gel manicures) 12:27 – V-beam: used mainly for vessels; avoid in darker skin types / test-spot if borderline 13:21 – Microneedling: useful for texture, but laser preferred for pigment 14:05 – Tranexamic acid / post-laser topicals — cautious use around eyes 14:59 – Rapid-fire with Dr. Kagha (wedding season, SPF, retinoids) 16:12 – Retinoid tips: start low, ease in, retinol staging technique 18:28 – Wrap / where to find Dr. Kagha online 18:48 – Transition to next guest: Dr. Aria Vazirnia 18:58 – Meet guest: Dr. Aria Vazirnia (Harvard-trained) 19:27 – Topic intro: arm liposuction — candidates & basics 20:16 – Loose skin considerations; when arm-lift may be needed 21:23 – Tumescent technique: office-based, no general anesthesia needed 22:16 – Leg/ankle contouring: lipedema, 3D approach to sculpting ankles 23:03 – Technique: repositioning patient for full-360 ankle suctioning 23:36 – Durability of results — fat unlikely to return to same spot 24:04 – Scar management: small incisions, sun avoidance, lasers 2–4 weeks post-op 25:23 – Favorite lasers for scars: V-beam, Sciton/Profractional, Fraxel 26:02 – Profractional scar settings (start low density ~5.5–11%) 26:27 – Use of exosomes / PRP / PDRN as adjuncts for healing 26:43 – Fat transfer options for "too-skinny" ankles (referral to plastics) 27:03 – Scope: extremities and 360 trunk work in practice 27:32 – Rapid-fire with Dr. Vazirnia (Boston vs. CA, coffee, music) 28:44 – Advice for young dermatologists: plan 10-year goals, pursue training/fellowships as needed 29:09 – Where to find Dr. Vazirnia online / closing remarks 29:39 – Outro by Dr. Azi  ______________________________________________________________ Follow Karen Kagha on Instagram: @drkarenk Follow Aria Vazirnia on Instagram: @drariamd   Dr. Karen Kagha is a board-certified dermatologist and Harvard-trained cosmetic expert based in Los Angeles. Known for her artistry and science-driven approach, she specializes in aesthetic dermatology and skin health for all skin tones. Dr. Kagha is passionate about empowering people to feel confident in their skin through education, innovation, and inclusive beauty. Dr. Aria Vazirnia is a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained cosmetic and surgical specialist based in Beverly Hills. With expertise spanning lasers, injectables, and advanced lipedema surgery, he combines precision with a natural aesthetic vision. Dr. Vazirnia brings a thoughtful, evidence-based voice to skincare, wellness, and modern beauty. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    31 min

  6. 10/15/2025

    Filler Longevity, Male Aesthetics & the Future of Regenerative Treatments with Dr. Terrence Keaney

    In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi talks with Dr. Terrence Keaney, a Washington DC dermatologist specializing in injectables, regenerative medicine, and body contouring. They discuss why patients are more cautious with fillers, how long results last, and what causes the "overfilled" look. The conversation covers PRF, fat transfer, filler migration, biostimulators, and emerging treatments like exosomes and PDRN. Dr. Keaney also shares insights on male aesthetics, hair restoration, and his go-to treatments for natural, long-lasting results. Timeline of what was discussed: 00:00 – Introduction 01:19 – "Filler fear" trend among patients 02:10 – Why overfilling happens 03:01 – How long fillers actually last 04:01 – Variation in filler longevity between patients 05:04 – Evaluating where to place filler 06:15 – Goal of fillers: restoring natural volume 07:13 – "Natural fillers" vs fat transfer 08:05 – Long-term filler safety & migration myths 09:12 – Why filler "migration" occurs 10:33 – Choosing the right filler and injector 12:11 – Emerging injectables (PDRN, exosomes) 15:14 – Safety concerns & lack of data on new injectables 15:50 – Biostimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse) 18:12 – Male aesthetics & growing interest 19:22 – Top male concerns: hairline, eyes, jawline 19:58 – New hair-loss research  21:22 – Hair restoration methods (medical, PRP, surgical) 22:52 – Robotic hair transplantation 23:05 – Rapid-fire Q&A 25:45 – Where to find Dr. Keeney 26:07 – Host closing remarks & listener outro   ______________________________________________________________ Follow Terrence Keaney on Instagram: @drtkeaney Check out his clinic: https://skindcderm.com/ Terrence Keaney, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist, researcher, and educator based in the Washington, D.C. area. He is co-founder of SkinDC, a practice dedicated to personalized dermatology, where he blends medical, surgical, and aesthetic techniques to treat skin, hair, and aging concerns. ______________________________________________________________ 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.

    28 min

  7. 10/02/2025

    Behind the Filler: Exploring Innovation in the World of Beauty & Aesthetic Medicine with Prollenium's Founder Ario Khoshbin

    Dr. Azi welcomes Ario Khoshbin, former CEO of Prollenium and creator of the popular hyaluronic acid filler Versa, to More Than a Pretty Face. Ario shares how his entrepreneurial roots in Toronto led him from selling lasers to pioneering HA fillers, the challenges of developing a safe and effective product, and the decade-long process of navigating regulations. He reflects on building Versa into a trusted brand, his departure from Prollenium, and his ongoing passion for innovation.  ______________________________________________________________ Follow Ario Khoshbin on Instagram: @(ario.khoshbin) Ario Khoshbin is an entrepreneur and former CEO of Prollenium Medical Technologies, best known for developing Versa, a leading hyaluronic acid filler. With over two decades in the aesthetics industry, he built Prollenium from a small Canadian startup into an international brand recognized for innovation and safety in dermal fillers. Beyond business, Ario is passionate about design, innovation, and cars. 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 (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.

    50 min

  8. 09/09/2025

    The Science Behind Making Skincare with Rhode's Cosmetic Chemist: Ron Robinson

    In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi sits down with cosmetic chemist and beauty brand founder Ron Robinson—the brain behind cult-favorite products and a key player in building brands like Rhode and his own line, BeautyStat to reveal what really goes into creating the skincare products you love. From idea to lab to store shelves, Ron shares the behind-the-scenes process of formulating cult favorites, the science that makes them work, and the secrets of building a beauty hit.   Timeline of what was discussed: 00:00 – Introduction 1:28 – Ron Robinson's Background 3:02 – AziMD Informational Ad 4:13 – The Science Behind the Formulation of Skincare 6:17 – Testing Formulations 8:47 – Navigating Rhode and BeautyStat 10:40 – Myths about Skincare Knowledge 11:00 – Beef Tallow 12:53 – What Consumers Should Question 15:56 – DIY Skincare 18:33 – What Makes A Product Worth It? 20:45 – Ron's Most Proud Product 23:11– Future of Skincare 25:50 – 10 Step Skincare Routines? 25:50 – Hyaluronic acid 28:15 – Rapid Fire Questions ______________________________________________________________ Follow Ron Robinson on Instagram: @ronrobinsoncosmeticchemist Follow BeautyStat on Instagram: @beautystat Follow Ron Robinson on TikTok: @roncosmeticchemist Ron Robinson is a veteran cosmetic chemist, founder of BeautyStat, and a leading voice in skincare innovation. With a background at Clinique and as a formulator for Rhode, he is widely recognized for developing one of the most effective stabilized Vitamin C serums on the market. Through his science-driven approach, Robinson continues to shape the future of skincare by making cutting-edge formulations accessible and effective. 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.

    35 min
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4.8
out of 5
144 Ratings

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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