Ozempic Face

By Naomi Carr

Last updated: 01 May 2024 & medically reviewed by Dr. David Miles

What is Ozempic face?

‘Ozempic face’ is the term used to describe the noticeable side effects of weight loss medications that impact a person’s facial appearance. Ozempic (semaglutide) is a medication used to manage blood sugar levels for individuals with type 2 diabetes. It has also been used off-label for weight loss, although there is significant controversy around using it for weight loss, due to the potential for long-term physical and mental health issues.^[1]

Despite the term ‘Ozempic face’ referring to this specific medication, many medications can cause this effect, including Wegovy, Zepbound, and Saxenda. These medications are also diabetes treatments, some of which are FDA-approved for weight loss or used off-label for this purpose.^[2]

Using Ozempic and other weight loss medications can cause changes such as a gaunt appearance, rapid aging of the face, and loose skin.^[1]

Related article: Experts Discuss: Do Weight Loss Drugs Like Ozempic Hold The Answer to Long-Term Weight Management?

How does Ozempic affect the face?

Ozempic is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. GLP is a hormone released while eating, which Ozempic mimics, to cause the pancreas to release insulin. Insulin release leads to glucose being used by cells instead of remaining in the bloodstream, thereby regulating blood sugar content. This mechanism also slows digestion, thereby reducing hunger and causing a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.^[3][4]

These effects help manage diabetes symptoms, while also resulting in a reduction in calorie consumption and weight loss. Individuals using these medications might rapidly lose weight, potentially causing a sudden loss of fat and muscle, which can result in many health problems including noticeable changes to the face.^[1][5]

These changes include:^[1][5]

• Loose or sagging skin, particularly around the chin or jaw

• Changes in the shape or size of lips, chin, or cheeks

• Hollowed-out appearance, including sunken eyes

• Thinner skin

• Increase in wrinkles and aging appearance

Prevention for Ozempic face

People who use Ozempic and other weight loss medications may wish to lose weight quickly, but rapid weight loss is often likely to result in various changes to overall health as well as changes in appearance. It may be possible to prevent or reduce the impact of these effects. This can include:^[2][5]

• Using low doses: Large doses of Ozempic will result in more rapid weight loss and more significant facial changes. Using lower doses can make weight loss more gradual and prevent sudden changes in the face.

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent a gaunt appearance, dry and aging skin, and severe effects of dehydration.

• Eating protein: Protein can help maintain and improve skin and muscle strength, preventing excessive fat and muscle loss in the face.

• Good skincare: Using skincare products such as moisturizers and anti-aging creams can help reduce skin dryness and maintain or improve elasticity to prevent sagging. 

• Monitoring blood sugar: Ensuring that blood sugar levels remain in a safe range can prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and rapid weight changes.

• Vitamins: When trying to lose weight, individuals on these medications will consume fewer calories. It is important to ensure proper nutritional intake during this time, getting plenty of vitamins and minerals in the diet or with supplements. This can help general well-being and skin health, preventing or reducing the effects of Ozempic face.

Treatment for Ozempic face

Along with preventative measures, individuals taking Ozempic or other weight loss medications may feel that professional interventions are necessary to treat the effects of the medication. This can include:^[1][5][6]

• Collagen: Collagen is a protein in the body that impacts the health of various parts of the body, including skin, muscles, and hair. Using collagen supplements can help improve the strength and elasticity of facial skin and muscles. Various collagen products are available.

• Fillers: Dermal fillers are administered using a fairly noninvasive procedure and can fill hollowed-out areas of the face, providing temporary plumpness and volume to the cheeks and lips.

• Surgery: Plastic surgery and skin-tightening procedures can be invasive and expensive but may treat the loss of elasticity and volume in the face more permanently than other procedures and fillers.

Additionally, it may be beneficial to understand the larger implications of your help before taking Ozempic. If you still choose to take this medication knowing the risks, consider reducing your dose, particularly if rapid weight loss and sudden changes occur.

When to contact a doctor

It may be necessary to contact a medical professional if the effects of Ozempic become severe. If the skin becomes yellowed, this may be a sign of jaundice, which requires professional intervention and treatment.^[5]

Additionally, individuals taking Ozempic may experience severe dehydration, which can occur through persistent vomiting or diarrhea. This can cause Ozempic face and can also lead to severe and dangerous health issues, so it should be treated by a professional.^[3][5]

It is important to be monitored by a professional throughout Ozempic treatment. They can monitor and treat any side effects, provide advice about nutrition and safe weight loss, and adjust dosages if required.^[2]