In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta Yadav sits down with Smitha Rao—biotechnologist, longtime beauty innovator, and founder of Pareva Beauty—for a grounded, science-first conversation on what skin longevity actually means. Part of the Lessons in Longevity series, this episode challenges the tired idea of “anti-aging” and reframes skincare as long-term biological support rather than surface-level correction.

With nearly two decades in biotech and beauty, Smitha brings a rare perspective shaped by molecule development, patents licensed across major brands, and leadership roles behind more than 200 products. That experience revealed a growing disconnect: while consumers want clarity and real science, the industry often defaults to hype, fear-based claims, and trend chasing. Pareva Beauty was born as a response—built on transparency, rigor, and the belief that longevity is about extending skin function and resilience, not reversing time.

At the center of the discussion is Molecur 3™, Pareva’s proprietary, plant-based technology inspired by the Hallmarks of Aging. Smitha explains how targeting inflammation, cellular stress, and age-related decline—rather than isolated “anti-aging” claims—creates a more realistic and sustainable path for skin health. The conversation also dives into plant-derived exosomal signaling, why it differs from human-derived systems, and how it offers a safer, scalable approach for topical longevity skincare.

Together, Dr. Ekta and Smitha unpack why fewer, better-designed products outperform complex routines, why transparency matters more than vague “clean” labels, and how longevity skincare must earn trust through data—not promises.

Listen to the full episode to hear how Smitha Rao is helping redefine the future of skincare—where science, honesty, and long-term skin health come first.

Shop Parëva Beauty and use code SA20 for 20% through 3/17.

CHAPTERS:

(0:02) - Introduction, Lessons in Longevity & Smitha Rao

(1:21) - From Biotech to Beauty Innovation

(2:50) - Why Pareva Was Created & The Longevity Gap

(3:33) - Defining Skin Longevity & Extending Your Prime

(5:38) - Rejecting Anti-Aging & Reframing Aging Quality

(8:51) - Molecure 3™: Hallmarks of Aging Inspiration

(10:27) - Plant Stem Cells, NAD⁺ & Exosome Signaling

(14:00) - Exosomes Explained: Plant vs Human-Derived

(22:51) - Simplifying Skincare: Fewer Steps, Better Results

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In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta Yadav sits down with Dr. Alexes Hazen—board-certified plastic surgeon, microsurgery specialist, and founder of Zen Essentials—for a thoughtful conversation on skin health, ethical aesthetics, and why real results can never be separated from whole-body well-being. With a background that spans public health, global medicine, and some of the most technically demanding surgical training, Dr. Hazen brings a rare depth to how she thinks about beauty, healing, and care.

Her path to medicine was anything but linear. From working with the New York City Department of Health during the AIDS crisis to serving in the Peace Corps in Honduras, Dr. Hazen learned early that medicine isn’t just technical—it’s human. Those experiences shaped a philosophy she carries into every aspect of her work today: outcomes are influenced as much by mental health, sleep, nutrition, and support systems as they are by surgical skill.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Hazen challenges the surface-level thinking that dominates skincare culture. Skin, she reminds us, is an organ—and it reflects what’s happening internally. No product can compensate for chronic stress, dehydration, or exhaustion. When those fundamentals are addressed, skincare finally has the space to work as it should.

She also speaks candidly about ethics in aesthetic medicine—why board certification matters, why saying “no” is sometimes the most responsible choice, and how listening to patients should always come before selling solutions.

That same restraint and intention led to the creation of Zen Essentials, born from Dr. Hazen’s own struggles with severe skin sensitivities. Designed to be effective yet calming, the line reflects her belief that skincare should support the body—not fight it.

Listen to the full episode to hear Dr. Alexes Hazen unpack holistic healing, ethical aesthetics, and why real skin health starts with caring for the whole person.

SHOP Zen Essentials and learn more on social media!

CHAPTERS:

(0:02) - Introduction & Guest Welcome

(0:46) - A Nonlinear Path Into Medicine

(1:26) - Public Health, AIDS Education & the Peace Corps

(2:46) - Falling in Love With Surgery & Plastic Surgery Training

(3:01) - Early Burn Injury, Scars & Coming Full Circle

(4:12) - Why Holistic Care Matters in Surgical Outcomes

(8:40) - Skin as a Reflection of Whole-Body Health

(11:22) - Ethics, Training & Responsibility in Aesthetic Surgery

(26:21) - The Origins of Zen Essentials & Sensitive Skin Science

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*This is a paid collaboration

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta Yadav sits down with supermodel, actress, podcaster, and YSE Beauty founder Molly Sims for an intimate conversation on how beauty evolves, how confidence is built, and how skincare becomes smarter with age. Known for her iconic presence and unfiltered approach on Lipstick on the Rim, Molly opens up about the real experiences that shaped her philosophy — from hormonal acne and melasma to rediscovering balance after years of harsh actives.

Molly reflects on her earliest beauty memories, watching her mother turn daily routines into rituals that embodied strength and joy. That foundation, combined with her global modeling career, became its own education: effortless French skincare, British edge, Italian sensuality, and a universal truth — consistency beats extremes.

Her journey to creating YSE Beauty began after her skin hit what she calls a “benefit plateau,” when aggressive ingredients stopped delivering results. She shares how shifting toward cushion actives, barrier support, and clinical but sensorial formulations transformed her skin and inspired a brand built on wisdom, simplicity, and results that feel good.

For Molly, beauty isn’t about correction or perfection — it’s about alignment. It’s the confidence that comes from choosing what serves you, whether that’s a glow-inducing exfoliating pad, a subtle procedure, or simply giving your skin room to breathe.

Listen to the full episode to hear Molly Sims discuss aging with intention, building YSE Beauty from the ground up, and why true luxury isn’t the price tag — it’s how you feel in your own skin.

SHOP YSE Beauty and learn more on their social media!

CHAPTERS:

(0:03) - Introduction & Guest Welcome

(1:07) - Early Beauty Memories & “It Girl” Origins

(2:44) - Influences From Travel, Fashion & Global Beauty Culture

(4:53) - Shifting Aesthetic Trends: From Harsh Treatments to Maintenance

(6:59) - Social Media, Filler Culture & Confidence

(9:46) - Personal Journeys With Procedures, Aging & Empowerment

(12:11) - Why Wise Beauty Was Created

(17:05) - Actives, Cushioning Ingredients & the Skin Plateau

(21:52) - Luxury vs. Efficacy, Accessibility & Building a Smarter Beauty Brand

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.