More Than a Pretty Face

Can GLP-1 medications cause hair loss—and can they actually help certain types of hair loss? In this episode of More Than A Pretty Face, Dr. Azi sits down with hair longevity expert and UC Irvine Vice Chair of Research Dr. Natasha Mesinkovska to unpack the connection between GLP-1s, weight loss, nutrition, and hair health.

They discuss why rapid weight loss can trigger shedding, how to recognize inflammatory hair loss, and why early treatment can make all the difference. The conversation also covers minoxidil, PRP, exosomes, peptides, hair loss prevention, and what's next in hair restoration. Plus, Dr. Natasha Mesinkovska shares her favorite treatments and skincare products in a rapid-fire round.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 - Meet Dr. Natasha Mesinkovska 01:20 - GLP-1s & Hair Loss 03:30 - Why Weight Loss Can Trigger Hair Shedding 05:15 - How Fast Weight Loss Affects Hair 07:00 - Inflammatory Hair Loss Explained 09:00 - Scarring Alopecia & Early Warning Signs 11:00 - GLP-1s & Inflammatory Hair Conditions 12:30 - AziMD Skincare: The One Spray 13:15 - How to Prevent GLP-1 Related Hair Loss 15:00 - What to Do When Hair Loss Starts 16:30 - Minoxidil, PRP & Hair Loss Treatments 18:00 - Exosomes: Are They Worth It? 19:30 - Nutrition, Protein & Hair Health 21:00 - Peptides & Longevity Treatments 23:30 - The Future of Precision Medicine 25:00 - The Future of Hair Loss Treatments 27:00 - Why Early Treatment Matters 28:30 - Hair Maintenance & Consistency 30:00 - Rapid Fire: Favorite Aesthetic Treatments 31:30 - Micro Botox Explained 33:00 - Favorite Skincare & SPF 34:00 - Final Thoughts + Outro

____________________________________________

Follow Dr. Natasha Mesinkovska on Instagram: @natashaderm

Dr. Natasha Mesinkovska is a board-certified dermatologist and Vice Chair of Research at UC Irvine. She specializes in hair loss, hair longevity, and inflammatory scalp conditions, with a particular focus on understanding the science behind hair health and developing personalized treatment approaches. Her research-driven approach combines emerging therapies with evidence-based treatments to help patients preserve and restore their hair.

____________________________________________

Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email [email protected].

Shop skincare at AziMD Skincare and learn more about the practice at La Jolla Laser & Dermatology

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

Can lasers actually make your skin healthier—not just make it look better? In this episode of More Than a Pretty Face, Dr. Azi goes inside the Masters of Aesthetics Conference to talk with Dr. Matthew Avram and Dr. Ava Shamban about skin longevity, collagen stimulation, and the future of aesthetic medicine.

They discuss fractional lasers, combination treatments, skin regeneration, Sculptra, Radiesse, and how layering treatments can create natural, long-term results. They also address whether biostimulators can affect future facelift surgery and share their favorite treatments for maintaining healthier, younger-looking skin.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 - Welcome to the Masters of Aesthetics series

02:28 - Meet Dr. Matthew Avram

02:52 - Can fractional lasers actually make skin healthier?

04:16 - Why laser treatments are about more than vanity

04:32 - 1927 lasers, Moxie & fractional CO2

05:21 - Why combination treatments can be more effective

06:40 - How often should you do fractional laser resurfacing?

07:52 - Rapid Fire with Dr. Avram

08:15 - Dr. Avram's favorite treatment

08:49 - His pre-event "glow-up" routine

09:39 - Meet Dr. Ava Shamban

10:00 - Why layering treatments matters

11:00 - Treating the face, neck, chest, arms & hands as one unit

12:06 - Going from deep to superficial with combination treatments

12:45 - Fraxel, skin boosters & regenerative treatments

13:40 - Sculptra after fractional laser treatments

14:30 - What's the biggest bang for your buck?

15:05 - Building a skin longevity plan from the foundation

15:50 - Hyperdilute Radiesse & biostimulators

16:35 - Can Sculptra or Radiesse affect a future facelift?

17:20 - Dr. Ava Shamban's final thoughts

17:53 - Final takeaways & how to connect with Dr. Azi

______________________________________________________________

Follow Dr. Matthew Avram on Instagam: @mathew_avrammd

Dr. Matthew Avram is the Director of Dermatology, Laser, and Cosmetics at Harvard Medical School and an associate professor and published author. In this episode, he shares his perspective on the evolving science of fractional lasers, skin regeneration, and aesthetic medicine.

Learn more about Dr. Matthew Avram: https://linktr.ee/MathewAvram

Follow Dr. Ava Shamban on Instagram: @DrAvaSays

Dr. Ava Shamban is a board-certified dermatologist, researcher, and cosmetic dermatology expert with decades of experience in aesthetic medicine. She is known for her comprehensive approach to rejuvenation, combining energy-based treatments, injectables, and regenerative technologies.

Learn more about Dr. Ava Shamban: https://linktr.ee/dr.ava

______________________________________________________________

Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email [email protected].

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.

Should you get a facelift in your 40s—or can fillers, Botox, and lasers keep you looking younger for years to come? In this episode of More Than a Pretty Face, Dr. Azi sits down with renowned facial plastic surgeon Dr. Melanie Malone to unpack one of the biggest questions in aesthetics: When is the right time for a facelift?

Together, they discuss how the face changes through every decade of life, why your 40s are often a turning point, and the surprising role hormones play in facial aging. They also dive into the truth about mini facelifts, deep plane facelifts, brow lifts, eyelid surgery, fillers, Sculptra, Radiesse, and whether today's treatments help—or complicate—future surgery.

If you've ever wondered whether you should keep getting injectables, wait for surgery, or do both, this episode is full of honest answers from two experts who help patients make these decisions every day.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 - Meet Dr. Melanie Malone

03:00 - Aging in your 30s: Where it begins

07:05 - Why your 40s change everything

11:40 - Is there a "perfect" age for a facelift?

16:00 - Why surgery isn't a replacement for maintenance

17:25 - Endoscopic facelifts: Worth it?

19:40 - Mini facelift vs. deep plane facelift

23:20 - Understanding SMAS vs. deep plane lifts

27:15 - Brow lifts, eyelids & natural-looking results

32:10 - Do fillers and Sculptra ruin future facelifts?

38:20 - Radiesse, scar tissue & surgical concerns

41:20 - Smash or Pass: The biggest aesthetic trends

43:35 - Final takeaways

______________________________________________________________

Follow Dr. Malone's practice on Instagram: @malonefacialplasticsurgery

Dr. Melanie Malone is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and founder of Malone Facial Plastic Surgery in La Jolla, California. Renowned for her expertise in facial rejuvenation and deep plane facelift surgery, Dr. Malone blends cutting-edge surgical innovation with a holistic philosophy to deliver refined, natural-looking results. As an accomplished researcher, educator, and internationally recognized expert, she is dedicated to advancing the art and science of facial aesthetics while helping patients look and feel like the best version of themselves.

Learn more about Malone Facial Plastic Surgery: https://www.malonemd.com/

______________________________________________________________

Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email [email protected].

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 sits down with longtime patient and Coyote Ugly founder, Liliana Lovell, for an honest conversation about aging, aesthetics, and what beauty treatments are actually worth the investment.

Drawing from over a decade of working together, they discuss botox, lasers, fillers, skincare, social media trends, and how beauty standards have evolved over time. Liliana shares what treatments she loves, what she'd never do again, and her biggest advice for aging naturally while still feeling confident in your skin.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 – Intro & Meet Liliana Lovell

01:40 – The Story Behind Coyote Ugly

04:00 – Aging, Insecurities & Natural Beauty

06:40 – TikTok Trends vs Expert Advice

07:10 – Building the Coyote Ugly Empire

11:40 – Life After Coyote Ugly & Being in the Spotlight

13:00 – Aging in the Public Eye

15:30 – Beauty Standards & Perception Drift

18:45 – Best & Worst Cosmetic Treatments

19:30 – Halo, BBL & Laser Treatments

22:20 – Microneedling & Exosomes

24:20 – Are Threads Worth It?

26:20 – Prioritizing Treatments on a Budget

27:15 – Botox: When to Start & How Often?

31:20 – Lip Flips, Fillers & Natural Results

34:00 – Volume Loss & Aging Gracefully

37:40 – Favorite Skincare Products & Routine

40:30 – Morning Routine & Vitamin C

44:10 – Healthy Skin Over Heavy Makeup

46:20 – Brows, Lashes & Small Beauty Hacks

49:10 – How to Choose the Right Provider

51:20 – Hormone Therapy & Menopause

53:10 – Scam or Sacred: Beauty Edition

56:20 – Final Advice & Outro

______________________________________________________________

Follow Liliana on Instagram: @LilCoyote6

Follow Coyote Ugly on Instagram: @CoyoteUglyFranchise

Liliana Lovell is an entrepreneur, author, and the founder of Coyote Ugly Saloon, the iconic bar that grew into a globally recognized entertainment brand. Known for transforming a bold business concept into a cultural phenomenon, Lovell has built a successful career in hospitality, branding, and business, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs through her story of resilience, innovation, and determination.

Learn more about Coyote Ugly: https://www.coyoteuglysaloon.com/franchising/our-story/

______________________________________________________________

Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email [email protected].

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 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 [email protected].

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 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 [email protected].

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 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 [email protected].

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 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 [email protected]. 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

______________________________________________________________

Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email [email protected].

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

______________________________________________________________

Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, @nurselacie, on YouTube, and TikTok @skinbydrazi. Email [email protected].

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.