What Is "Ozempic Face" and How Can You Steer Clear of It?

Weight loss injections have become increasingly popular due to their effectiveness, but with quick results often come unexpected side effects. One of the recent concerns associated with these treatments is “Ozempic face.” This term describes the sagging and prematurely aged skin that some individuals experience after using weight loss medications like Ozempic. At NuBody Concepts, we understand that looking and feeling your best involves more than reaching your target weight. We offer a range of solutions to help you maintain a youthful appearance, even after significant weight loss. Let’s explore the Ozempic face phenomenon, what causes it, and how to avoid it.

What Is Ozempic Face?

After using weight loss injections like Ozempic (semaglutide), some people may experience a noticeable sagging and loss of facial volume known as “Ozempic face” or “Ozempic skin.” These GLP-1 inhibitor injections help with rapid weight loss by regulating blood sugar levels and reducing appetite. However, the quick reduction in body fat can have unintended consequences. Since fat acts as a natural filler under the skin, losing it too rapidly can make the face look aged, gaunt, or hollow. While research on Ozempic face is still limited, it is becoming a growing concern among patients and plastic surgeons.

While semaglutide can effectively help with weight loss, rapid shedding of pounds may lead to noticeable skin changes, often resembling “old, overused rubber bands.” Plastic surgeons worried about Ozempic face have reported that patients using GLP-1s like Ozempic show signs of accelerated aging, such as sagging, increased fine lines, and weakened skin elasticity, which is especially evident on the face, arms, thighs, and even the abdomen.

According to Allure, the primary reason for these changes is the inability of the skin to retract quickly after rapid weight loss, leading to sagging due to weakened collagen and elastin fibers. Some surgeons have adapted their procedures to meet the unique needs of GLP-1 patients, using techniques like skin-tightening radiofrequency treatments alongside traditional procedures. Our Nashville MedSpa and Memphis MedSpa accommodate these treatments.

Causes: The Aesthetic Side Effects of Rapid Weight Loss

A gradual approach is better for your skin when it comes to weight loss. Rapid weight loss, such as with Ozempic or similar medications, can deplete collagen and fat in the face, resulting in a sagging and tired appearance. This can be disheartening for individuals who have worked hard to achieve their weight loss goals. However, NuBody Concepts offers various procedures to help restore lost volume and improve skin elasticity, providing a constructive solution for those seeking to enhance their appearance after weight loss.

Prevention Tips: Skincare Routines, Treatments, and Lifestyle Changes

If you are using Ozempic or another weight loss medication, there are several ways to help minimize the risk of developing Ozempic face. Following a few preventive measures can protect your skin’s integrity while working toward your weight loss goals.

Prioritize a Healthy Diet

At NuBody Concepts, our staff emphasizes the importance of not starving yourself while taking weight loss medications.

Nurse Shelly in Nashville explains, “I do mention this to my patients when on semaglutide or tirzepatide. I also encourage them to not starve themselves, eat high-protein meals, and get plenty of hydration.”

Proper nutrition can help support your skin from the inside out. Focus on eating a balanced diet with plenty of lean proteins, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. Protein, in particular, is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, which can help fill out your skin even as you lose fat.

Hydrate Regularly

Drinking water is essential for skin health, especially during rapid weight loss. Proper hydration helps keep your skin supple and more resilient against sagging. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and consider incorporating hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges into your diet.

Use Skincare Products That Boost Collagen Production

Incorporating skincare products that stimulate collagen production into your routine can help maintain skin elasticity. Look for products containing ingredients like retinol, peptides, and vitamin C, which can help boost collagen and improve skin firmness over time. Regularly moisturizing with hyaluronic acid can also help keep your skin hydrated and plump.

Slow and Steady Weight Loss

While it can be tempting to aim for the quickest results possible, gradual weight loss is better for your skin. The staff at NuBody Concepts encourages patients to focus on steady, slower weight loss to avoid drastic changes in appearance. Consulting with a Nashville or Memphis aesthetician during your weight loss journey can provide personalized skincare advice and treatments to help you maintain a youthful appearance.

Treatments at NuBody Concepts to Address Ozempic Face

If you have noticed changes in your face due to Ozempic, treatments are available to help you look more youthful. NuBody Concepts offers various procedures to improve facial volume, skin tightness, and overall appearance. Here are some effective options for those concerned about Ozempic face:

1. Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers quickly restore lost volume in the face by injecting substances like hyaluronic acid into targeted areas. This helps to reduce fine lines and create a more youthful appearance with minimal downtime and immediate results.

2. Renuvion Skin Tightening: Renuvion skin tightening treatment uses helium plasma and radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. Available at our Nashville location, it is effective for mild to moderate skin laxity due to rapid weight loss, providing a firmer and more contoured appearance.

3. Chemical Peels: Chemical peels can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and promote collagen production, leading to firmer skin.

4. Laser Skin Resurfacing: This procedure can address skin laxity, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone by stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin.

Is Ozempic Face Reversible?

Yes, the effects of Ozempic face can be managed and even reversed with the right treatments. At NuBody Concepts, we offer customized plans to help you regain a youthful appearance after rapid weight loss. Many patients who undergo these treatments are delighted to see our “Ozempic face before and after” photos that show significant improvement in skin tightness and overall facial volume. We also provide Ozempic weight loss injections at our Tennessee-based clinic. We help our patients mitigate skin laxity issues while going through the injection protocol. You’re in good hands at NuBody Concepts.

Embrace Weight Loss Assistance at NuBody Concepts

When starting a weight loss journey, it’s crucial to consider the potential impact on your appearance. Rapid weight loss, while effective, can lead to sagging skin and loss of facial volume. It’s important to take a balanced approach to weight management by incorporating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and maintaining proper skin care in order to avoid Ozempic face. This is why we recommend receiving weight-loss injections from an experienced provider with a holistic approach. If you’re experiencing signs of facial sagging or volume loss, the team at NuBody Concepts is ready to assist you. Check out our complete list of before and after photos to see the type of work we can do.

Schedule a consultation today to discover how we can address your concerns and witness real transformations. Let us help you look and feel your best.