Weight loss medications like Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists are growing in popularity. Amidst the triumph of dropping dress sizes and achieving newfound vitality, individuals will likely encounter side effects—some of which may come as a surprise.
Like “Ozempic face.”
The term, coined by Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a cosmetic and celebrity dermatologist, has gained some momentum.
What is Ozempic face?
With a term like this, you may be conjuring up horrific images and permanent damage. But, in reality, Ozempic face is not actually a side effect of Ozempic. “Ozempic face” is a term used to describe the facial changes that occur as a result of rapid weight loss.
While Ozempic itself isn’t the direct cause, the accelerated loss of weight leads to changes in facial fat distribution, impacting the skin’s elasticity. This can result in a gaunt or hollow appearance, making individuals look older than their actual age.
What does Ozempic face look like: Ozempic face before and after
Characteristics associated with Ozempic face include:
- a hollowed look to the face
- changes in the size of the lips, cheeks, and chin
- Wrinkles
- sunken eyes
- sagging jowls around the jaw and neck
How to prevent Ozempic face
Preventing Ozempic face isn’t easy. With this much weight loss, changes to your face are inevitable. But there are a few things you can do to lessen its impact:
- Gradual Weight Loss: The most effective way to prevent Ozempic face is to avoid rapid weight loss. Instead of aiming for drastic changes in a short period, opt for a more gradual approach to weight loss. This allows your skin to adapt gradually, reducing the risk of sagging or gaunt appearance.
- Stay Hydrated: Hydration is crucial for maintaining skin health—and kidney health. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to sagging.
- Balanced Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This provides essential nutrients to support skin health and elasticity.
- Regular Exercise: Incorporate regular exercise into your routine to promote overall health and well-being. Exercise helps maintain muscle tone, which can contribute to a more youthful appearance.
- Skincare Routine: Establish a skincare routine tailored to your skin type and concerns. This may include cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage.
- Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can accelerate skin aging and contribute to sagging and wrinkles. Avoiding these habits can help preserve skin elasticity.
- Consult with a Healthcare Provider: If you have concerns about Ozempic face or skin changes, consult with your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized advice and recommendations based on your individual needs.
Ozempic face treatment
Treatment for Ozempic face is not as straightforward as we’re sure you’re hoping. Surgeons have noted that Ozempic face is less prominent in women, but attribute this to their use of makeup and other methods to cover the flaws.
One of those other methods is facial fillers. While there isn’t a specific remedy for this side effect, some individuals will use facial fillers to address the loss of facial fat. These fillers can be a temporary or permanent solution to combat the sagging associated with Ozempic face.
It is, however, quite costly.
You can also continue with the preventative measures listed above:
- Stay hydrated
- Eat a balanced diet
- Get regular exercise
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
- Develop a better skincare routine
They won’t outright fix Ozempic face, but they can help to mitigate the appearance.
Conclusion
Ozempic can cause significant weight loss, improving your overall health and well-being. But, it can also cause a more unsightly outcome with Ozempic face. It isn’t ideal, but it’s a small cost to pay for your health.
And, there are ways you can mitigate the symptoms of this side effect. Ultimately, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including gradual weight loss and skincare habits can make a difference.
Ready to get started with Ozempic? Heally makes it easy. Set up a virtual consultation today!
Sources
- Medical News Today: What to know about “Ozempic face”
- Today: What is ‘Ozempic face’? Significant weight loss on the drug can change your face, doctors say
- Harvard Health Publishing: GLP-1 diabetes and weight-loss drug side effects: “Ozempic face” and more
- Healthline: ‘Ozempic Face’: What is it and What Can You Do About it?
