More Than a Pretty Face

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 [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 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 [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 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.

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

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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.

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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 [email protected].

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.

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

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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 [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 Eleni share skincare and beauty hacks that actually work, including some unexpected ones that might just surprise you (hint: butt paste makes an appearance). Whether you're dealing with redness, fungal acne, oily or flaky scalps, stinky feet, or summer sweat, this episode has a fix. Plus, derm-approved tips for growing your brows, calming eczema, and handling emergency breakouts. It's everything you didn't know you needed in your beauty routine.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 – Introduction

01:19 – Beauty or Blemish

04:46 – Redness Relief (Derm Style)

06:28 – Fungus Treatment

08:23 – Weird Tricks That Work for Stinky Pits/Feet

10:58 – Treating an Oily Scalp

12:46 – Dry, Flaky Scalp & Skin

15:16 – "Fungal Acne" Treatment

16:08 – Eczema & Psoriasis

17:32 – Brow Growth Tip

19:23 – Sweaty Summer Beauty Tip

20:41 – Emergency Pimple Protocol

22:09 – Butt Paste for Skincare?!

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

Stretch marks are more common than you think—and we're breaking down everything you need to know. In this episode, Dr. Azi and Lacie get real about why stretch marks form, how to prevent them, and the most effective ways to treat them. They cover the science behind stretch marks, common myths, and listener questions that bring relatable insight into an often under-discussed skin concern.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 – Introduction

01:37 – Beauty & Blemish

03:19 – What are stretch marks?

04:54 – What causes stretch marks?

06:49 – How common are they?

08:08 – Stretch mark prevention

10:43 – Topicals & Treatments

14:23 – The Reality of Stretch Marks

15:01 – Listener Questions

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Submit your questions for the podcast to Dr. Azi on Instagram @morethanaprettyfacepodcast, @skinbydrazi, 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 Physician Associate Eleni Litras to break down everything you need to know about natural rejuvenation—from what really happens to your collagen in your mid-20s to the most effective in-office and at-home ways to restore and maintain youthful skin. They dive into skincare myths, diet tips, and the latest biostimulators and laser treatments for long-term skin health.

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 Introduction

02:21 Beauty or Blemish

06:19 What happens to collagen in our mid-20s

08:36 At-home ways to boost collagen production

14:20 Natural rejuvenation: In-office treatment options

21:08 Laser resurfacing explained

25:38 Biostimulators: What they are & how they work

27:27 How diet affects your skin

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

Dr. Azi and Nurse Lacie are back with an episode that gets to the root of one of the most talked-about topics in beauty: hair loss. From hormonal imbalances to genetic causes and the latest treatment options, they're breaking down the science behind why we lose hair—and what we can do about it.

Together, they answer your most asked questions: How do you know if you're really losing hair? What treatments actually work? Can you support your hair growth with the right ingredients? And what's the deal with PRP, Spironolactone, and Dutasteride?

Whether you're dealing with shedding, thinning, or patchy spots, this episode of More Than a Pretty Face is packed with the facts (and a few rapid-fire fun moments, too).

Timeline of what was discussed:

00:00 Introduction

02:25 Beauty & Blemish

08:05 The Most Common Type of Hair Loss

12:57 Ways to Test If You're Going Through Hair Loss

15:39 What Are Some Treatment Options?

21:23 PRP Treatment & Dutasteride Injections

23:51 Taking Spironolactone for Hair Loss

24:29 The Science Behind Hair Growth Cycles

29:48 New Hair Loss Research & Innovations

31:32 Alopecia Areata: What You Should Know

34:23 Rapid Fire Questions

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