The Beauty Equation Podcast

Radiofrequency Microneedling 101 | 017

Radiofrequency microneedling is explored as a powerful, next-level approach to skin rejuvenation combining controlled micro-injury with heat-based energy to stimulate collagen, improve texture, and support deeper structural change. By going beyond traditional microneedling, this treatment can reach multiple layers of the skin, influencing not only surface quality but also firmness and, in some cases, underlying tissue. Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault, Dr. Harpreet Lotay, and Amanda Manholt break down why outcomes can vary depending on the device, treatment depth, and technique, and why understanding these differences is key to setting realistic expectations. From patient selection and contraindications to managing discomfort and downtime, they emphasize the importance of individualized treatment plans and experienced providers. With a clear, educational lens, the conversation highlights how this treatment can deliver meaningful results when approached thoughtfully and safely. KEY TAKEAWAYS 1. Radiofrequency energy enhances traditional microneedling by stimulating deeper collagen responses. 2. Heat shock proteins play a key role in the skin’s regenerative process following treatment. 3. Device selection and treatment settings directly impact outcomes and recovery time. 4. Certain conditions like keloid scarring or implanted devices require careful screening or avoidance. 5. Provider experience and technique are critical for both safety and optimal results. Disclaimer: The Beauty Equation is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. This podcast does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical or aesthetic decisions. Information may change as the field evolves. Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or on your favourite podcast app.  Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review. About the Hosts: Dr. Harpreet Lotay is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine. She is the founder of Sona MD in Kamloops, BC, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Bios Wellness Clinics. Known for her artistic approach and comprehensive non-surgical treatments, Dr. Lotay combines medical expertise with an eye for natural results. She is also an educator, a national trainer and holds academic appointments where she shares her knowledge in clinical dermatology and aesthetics. You can get in touch with her on Instagram @hlotaymd [https://www.instagram.com/hlotaymd/] Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine, women’s health, and psycho-education. She brings a holistic, whole-person perspective to her clinical work, blending science with a deep understanding of the mind-body connection. She is also the founder of Reclaim The Pink Within, a movement that empowers women to rediscover themselves during life’s most transformative stages. In addition, she is passionate about medical education and mentors the next generation of family physicians through her work with the department of Family Medicine at the University of British Columbia. You can connect with her on Instagram @drchristellemd [https://www.instagram.com/drchristellemd/] Amanda Manholt is a clinic manager, patient consultant, and co-host of The Beauty Equation Podcast. With over 30 years of experience in beauty, aesthetics, and leadership, she has guided patients and teams alike toward confidence, growth, and empowerment. Known for her ability to connect with people and simplify the often-overwhelming world of aesthetics, Amanda brings a warm, practical, and relatable perspective to every conversation. You can find her on Instagram @crowsfeetandconfidence. [https://www.instagram.com/crowsfeetandconfidence/] Websites https://sonamd.ca/ [https://sonamd.ca/] https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/ [https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/]

Understanding Ozempic Face: Causes and Solutions | 016

Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault, Amanda Manholt and, Dr. Harpreet Lotay explore the growing conversation around GLP-1 agonists and their impact on facial aesthetics, often referred to as “Ozempic face.” As these medications become more widely used, they unpack how rapid weight loss and changes in fat distribution can alter facial structure, leading to volume loss, skin laxity, and shifts in overall facial harmony. The discussion breaks down the underlying mechanisms behind these changes, including the role of fat pads, collagen, and elastin, and why the face can sometimes appear older or more tired as a result. They also walk through available treatment options from injectables to regenerative approaches and how combining modalities can help restore balance and improve skin quality. With a focus on education and proactive care, the conversation highlights the importance of early intervention, individualized treatment planning, and realistic expectations when navigating aesthetic changes associated with weight loss. Key Takeaways 1. Rapid weight loss can accelerate visible changes in facial structure and skin support. 2. Fat pad loss plays a significant role in how aging presents in the face. 3. Collagen and elastin decline contribute to reduced skin resilience and firmness. 4. Combination treatments often provide more comprehensive and natural-looking outcomes. 5. Early, preventative strategies can help maintain facial balance during weight changes. Disclaimer: The Beauty Equation is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. This podcast does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical or aesthetic decisions. Information may change as the field evolves. Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or on your favourite podcast app.  Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review. About the Hosts: Dr. Harpreet Lotay is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine. She is the founder of Sona MD in Kamloops, BC, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Bios Wellness Clinics. Known for her artistic approach and comprehensive non-surgical treatments, Dr. Lotay combines medical expertise with an eye for natural results. She is also an educator, a national trainer and holds academic appointments where she shares her knowledge in clinical dermatology and aesthetics. You can get in touch with her on Instagram @hlotaymd [https://www.instagram.com/hlotaymd/] Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine, women’s health, and psycho-education. She brings a holistic, whole-person perspective to her clinical work, blending science with a deep understanding of the mind-body connection. She is also the founder of Reclaim The Pink Within, a movement that empowers women to rediscover themselves during life’s most transformative stages. In addition, she is passionate about medical education and mentors the next generation of family physicians through her work with the department of Family Medicine at the University of British Columbia. You can connect with her on Instagram @drchristellemd [https://www.instagram.com/drchristellemd/] Amanda Manholt is a clinic manager, patient consultant, and co-host of The Beauty Equation Podcast. With over 30 years of experience in beauty, aesthetics, and leadership, she has guided patients and teams alike toward confidence, growth, and empowerment. Known for her ability to connect with people and simplify the often-overwhelming world of aesthetics, Amanda brings a warm, practical, and relatable perspective to every conversation. You can find her on Instagram @crowsfeetandconfidence. [https://www.instagram.com/crowsfeetandconfidence/] Websites https://sonamd.ca/ [https://sonamd.ca/] https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/ [https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/]

The Skincare Ingredient Quiz: Do You Really Know What’s in Your Products? | 015

Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault, Dr. Harpreet Lotay, and Amanda Manholt bring a playful twist to skincare education with a quiz-style conversation exploring some of the most talked-about ingredients in modern skincare. As they challenge each other’s knowledge, they break down what ingredients like vitamin C, salicylic acid, retinol, and hyaluronic acid actually do for the skin and where marketing or misinformation can create confusion. The conversation also broadens to the larger world of aesthetic care, touching on how social media and beauty trends influence expectations around aging and treatments. By connecting skincare ingredients with the science of facial anatomy and treatment planning, the hosts highlight the value of credible information, thoughtful product choices, and trusted providers when navigating skincare and aesthetics. Key Takeaways 1. Ingredient knowledge helps cut through marketing claims and product hype. 2. Certain active ingredients can cause irritation if used incorrectly or combined improperly. 3. Medical-grade formulations often deliver more reliable results due to concentration and stability. 4. Social and cultural influences can shape expectations about beauty and aging. 5. Understanding treatment options—from skincare to injectables—supports more confident decisions. Disclaimer: The Beauty Equation is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. This podcast does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical or aesthetic decisions. Information may change as the field evolves. Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or on your favourite podcast app.  Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review. About the Hosts: Dr. Harpreet Lotay is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine. She is the founder of Sona MD in Kamloops, BC, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Bios Wellness Clinics. Known for her artistic approach and comprehensive non-surgical treatments, Dr. Lotay combines medical expertise with an eye for natural results. She is also an educator, a national trainer and holds academic appointments where she shares her knowledge in clinical dermatology and aesthetics. You can get in touch with her on Instagram @hlotaymd [https://www.instagram.com/hlotaymd/] Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine, women’s health, and psycho-education. She brings a holistic, whole-person perspective to her clinical work, blending science with a deep understanding of the mind-body connection. She is also the founder of Reclaim The Pink Within, a movement that empowers women to rediscover themselves during life’s most transformative stages. In addition, she is passionate about medical education and mentors the next generation of family physicians through her work with the department of Family Medicine at the University of British Columbia. You can connect with her on Instagram @drchristellemd [https://www.instagram.com/drchristellemd/] Amanda Manholt is a clinic manager, patient consultant, and co-host of The Beauty Equation Podcast. With over 30 years of experience in beauty, aesthetics, and leadership, she has guided patients and teams alike toward confidence, growth, and empowerment. Known for her ability to connect with people and simplify the often-overwhelming world of aesthetics, Amanda brings a warm, practical, and relatable perspective to every conversation. You can find her on Instagram @crowsfeetandconfidence. [https://www.instagram.com/crowsfeetandconfidence/] Websites https://sonamd.ca/ [https://sonamd.ca/] https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/ [https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/]

What Did She Do To Her Face?! | 014

Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault, Dr. Harpreet Lotay, and Amanda Manholt explore the many factors that shape aesthetic medicine decisions—from facial anatomy and treatment science to the powerful influence of social trends and cultural beauty standards. The conversation looks at why some results appear natural while others feel exaggerated or “off,” and how thoughtful assessment and technique play a critical role in maintaining facial harmony. The discussion also touches on the growing impact of social media and celebrity culture on beauty ideals, and how these influences can shift expectations around treatments like Botox, fillers, and biostimulatory options. Alongside these technical insights, the hosts emphasize the importance of psychological well-being, responsible provider guidance, and a balanced approach to skincare and aesthetic care. The goal is not transformation, but alignment—helping patients make informed choices that support natural, authentic results while respecting the individuality of every face. Key Takeaways 1. Cultural trends and regional beauty standards often influence what patients request in aesthetic treatments. 2. A global facial assessment helps prevent isolated treatments that can disrupt overall balance. 3. Understanding the differences between neuromodulators, fillers, and collagen-stimulating treatments improves treatment planning. 4. Certain skincare ingredients and treatments require careful use to avoid irritation or long-term skin damage. 5. Ethical providers recognize when psychological factors may require additional support or referral. Disclaimer: The Beauty Equation is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. This podcast does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical or aesthetic decisions. Information may change as the field evolves. Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or on your favourite podcast app.  Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review. About the Hosts: Dr. Harpreet Lotay is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine. She is the founder of Sona MD in Kamloops, BC, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Bios Wellness Clinics. Known for her artistic approach and comprehensive non-surgical treatments, Dr. Lotay combines medical expertise with an eye for natural results. She is also an educator, a national trainer and holds academic appointments where she shares her knowledge in clinical dermatology and aesthetics. You can get in touch with her on Instagram @hlotaymd [https://www.instagram.com/hlotaymd/] Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine, women’s health, and psycho-education. She brings a holistic, whole-person perspective to her clinical work, blending science with a deep understanding of the mind-body connection. She is also the founder of Reclaim The Pink Within, a movement that empowers women to rediscover themselves during life’s most transformative stages. In addition, she is passionate about medical education and mentors the next generation of family physicians through her work with the department of Family Medicine at the University of British Columbia. You can connect with her on Instagram @drchristellemd [https://www.instagram.com/drchristellemd/] Amanda Manholt is a clinic manager, patient consultant, and co-host of The Beauty Equation Podcast. With over 30 years of experience in beauty, aesthetics, and leadership, she has guided patients and teams alike toward confidence, growth, and empowerment. Known for her ability to connect with people and simplify the often-overwhelming world of aesthetics, Amanda brings a warm, practical, and relatable perspective to every conversation. You can find her on Instagram @crowsfeetandconfidence. [https://www.instagram.com/crowsfeetandconfidence/] Websites https://sonamd.ca/ [https://sonamd.ca/] https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/ [https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/]

How to Make Confident Beauty Decisions Without Fear, Pressure, or Regret | 013

Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault, Dr. Harpreet Lotay, and Amanda Manholt explore the deeper layers behind aesthetic decision-making, unpacking the tension between personal desire and outside influence. They discuss how cultural messaging, comparison, and fear can quietly shape choices, and why clarity around your own values matters more than trends. The conversation walks through the consultation process as a collaborative space—one designed to listen first, assess thoughtfully, and create a plan that reflects the individual rather than a template. They emphasize that aesthetic medicine is not about quick fixes, but about intentional, personalized care that evolves over time. From understanding facial anatomy to recognizing the emotional drivers behind change, the discussion reinforces a patient-centered philosophy rooted in education, ethics, and long-term trust. At its core, the goal isn’t transformation—it’s alignment: helping patients feel confident that their decisions reflect who they are and how they want to move through the world. Key Takeaways 1. Regret often comes from decisions made in urgency or fear rather than confidence. 2. A strong consultation creates space for patients to voice concerns and define their goals. 3. Every treatment plan should be tailored to the individual—not copied from trends or social media. 4. Psychological readiness and comfort level matter as much as clinical suitability. 5. Long-term aesthetic success requires patience, education, and thoughtful combination strategies. Disclaimer: The Beauty Equation is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. This podcast does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making medical or aesthetic decisions. Information may change as the field evolves. Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or on your favourite podcast app.  Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review. About the Hosts: Dr. Harpreet Lotay is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine. She is the founder of Sona MD in Kamloops, BC, and serves as Chief Medical Officer at Bios Wellness Clinics. Known for her artistic approach and comprehensive non-surgical treatments, Dr. Lotay combines medical expertise with an eye for natural results. She is also an educator, a national trainer and holds academic appointments where she shares her knowledge in clinical dermatology and aesthetics. You can get in touch with her on Instagram @hlotaymd [https://www.instagram.com/hlotaymd/] Dr. Christelle Oliver-Dussault is a family physician specializing in aesthetic medicine, women’s health, and psycho-education. She brings a holistic, whole-person perspective to her clinical work, blending science with a deep understanding of the mind-body connection. She is also the founder of Reclaim The Pink Within, a movement that empowers women to rediscover themselves during life’s most transformative stages. In addition, she is passionate about medical education and mentors the next generation of family physicians through her work with the department of Family Medicine at the University of British Columbia. You can connect with her on Instagram @drchristellemd [https://www.instagram.com/drchristellemd/] Amanda Manholt is a clinic manager, patient consultant, and co-host of The Beauty Equation Podcast. With over 30 years of experience in beauty, aesthetics, and leadership, she has guided patients and teams alike toward confidence, growth, and empowerment. Known for her ability to connect with people and simplify the often-overwhelming world of aesthetics, Amanda brings a warm, practical, and relatable perspective to every conversation. You can find her on Instagram @crowsfeetandconfidence. [https://www.instagram.com/crowsfeetandconfidence/] Websites https://sonamd.ca/ [https://sonamd.ca/] https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/ [https://www.getyourpinkbackproject.com/]