What is ‘Ozempic Face’?
‘Ozempic face’, a term coined by plastic surgeons, refers to the facial changes that occur due to rapid or significant weight loss. It is characterized by the loss of subcutaneous and buccal fat, which normally maintains the skin’s integrity, structure, and plumpness. This loss can lead to hollowed cheeks and pronounced bony protrusions. It is important to note the main cause is NOT the medication itself. The efficacy and popularity of weight loss medications such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, Zepbound®, semaglutide and tirzepatide have brought a newfound interest in the impact weight loss can have on the skin.
Effects of Weight Loss on the Face
When you lose weight, especially rapidly, you might notice several changes in your facial appearance:
- Sunken Facial Skin: The skin may appear sunken, with sharper lines along the jaw.
- Extra Wrinkles or Smile Lines: These lines can become more pronounced.
- General Fatigue: Your face might look generally tired.
- Sagging Skin: Some people may develop jowls or dragging skin around the lower face, jawline, and neck.
These changes are more likely to be seen in middle-aged individuals and older, particularly those who had a higher BMI before losing weight. This is because they had more fat mass in their face, leading to more sagging skin once the fat is lost.
Aging and Other Factors at Play
As we age, our skin loses elasticity and collagen, and exposure to the sun and environmental factors further affects skin health. Dehydration and hormonal changes can also make it difficult to maintain firm and hydrated skin. These factors combined with weight loss can exacerbate the signs of aging.
Weight Loss and Genetic Factors
Genetics play a significant role in where we carry and lose fat. Some individuals may lose their facial fat more quickly, leading to noticeable changes. While some patients might dislike the loss of facial volume, others appreciate the newfound definition, such as visible collarbones.
Effects of GLP-1 Medications on the Skin
GLP-1 medications, like semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy), can be used to assist in weight loss but are not directly linked to skin changes like acne. However, hormonal shifts during weight loss might trigger acne. A good skincare regimen and consulting with a dermatologist can help manage these temporary side effects.
Preventing and Managing Ozempic Face
Not everyone will experience Ozempic face, but for those who do, it can be concerning. Here are some strategies to prevent or manage it:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water, especially with electrolytes, to keep the skin hydrated.
- Moisturize: Use effective moisturizing products to maintain skin suppleness.
- Steady Weight Loss: Aim for gradual weight loss rather than rapid changes to prevent sagging skin.
- Skincare Products: Use oral collagen supplements, topical retinoid creams, vitamin C serum, and hyaluronic acid.
- Sun Protection: Use physical sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade to protect your skin from sun damage.
- Injectable Fillers: Consider fillers to restore volume once your weight has stabilized.
Skin takes longer to respond to weight loss compared to other body parts. Most people will regain some structural fat and fluid distribution once their weight stabilizes. Although your skin may not return to its exact pre-weight-loss appearance, it will normalize to a healthier state over time.
Personal Experience and Professional Advice
As someone who has experienced rapid weight loss multiple times, I can attest that after about a year, the skin and facial contours tend to stabilize and regain a natural look. If you’re interested in learning how to safely take GLP-1 medication and mitigate side effects like Ozempic face, consult with healthcare professionals.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing changes in your facial appearance due to weight loss, remember that you’re not alone. By following these tips and seeking professional advice, you can manage these changes effectively.
If you’re interested in losing weight with medical supervision, schedule a free consultation with one of our weight loss specialists.
For more expert insights, get Options Medical Weight Loss Chief Medical Officer Dr. Katrina Mattingly’s perspective here.
Transform Your Body. Transform Your Life.
For further reading and scholarly references on weight loss and its effects on the skin, consider these sources:
- Yosipovitch, G., & Maibach, H. I. (1996). Effect of rapid weight loss on skin. Clinical Dermatology, 14(2), 103-110.
- Williams, S., & Reading, L. (2020). Impact of weight loss on facial appearance. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 40(3), 323-329.