Ozempic face: myth or reality?

With the surge in popularity of weight loss medications, a new term has emerged - "Ozempic face". This refers to a gaunt, aged appearance that can result from rapid weight loss while using the drug.

But is this phenomenon based in fact or merely an overblown myth? 

Let’s take a look at whether "Ozempic face" is something to be worried about.

The science behind weight loss medications

Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro work by mimicking hormones that target the brain areas responsible for regulating appetite and food intake. Ozempic and Wegovy are GLP-1 receptor agonists, while Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual agonist, activating both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. 

All these drugs slow gastric emptying and increase insulin sensitivity, making them effective for managing blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetics and for weight loss.¹

Rapid weight loss and facial changes

Intense weight loss often results in noticeable physical changes, and the face is no exception. This is often desirable, as the face is where weight can be most noticeable. But it can also lead to sagging skin and a more aged appearance. The term "Ozempic face" refers to this specific outcome, but it’s important to note that these changes aren’t unique to Ozempic. Rapid weight loss from any cause can lead to similar effects.²

As we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity and subcutaneous fat. When weight loss occurs quickly, the skin doesn’t have enough time to adapt, often leading to a gaunt or hollow look. The face is one of the first places where these changes are evident. 

So, is "Ozempic face" a myth?

In short, it can happen. But it’s not specific to the drug. It’s a result of rapid weight loss, something that can happen with any significant reduction in body fat. Patients who have experienced rapid weight loss through diet or bariatric surgery report similar facial changes.² This indicates that it’s the process of weight loss that causes this, rather than Ozempic directly. 

Aesthetic concerns versus health benefits

There’s no doubt that facial ageing can be distressing, particularly when it follows a significant achievement like weight loss. However, focusing solely on aesthetics can detract from the health benefits weight loss medications provide. 

For people with type 2 diabetes or obesity, losing weight significantly reduces their risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes-related complications, and even certain cancers.³

The medical benefits of losing weight far outweigh the aesthetic concerns that come with changes in facial appearance. The decision to use Ozempic or any GLP-1 receptor agonist should be grounded in these health benefits, rather than the fear of cosmetic changes. 

Can "Ozempic face" be prevented?

The good news is that facial changes related to weight loss can be managed. A more gradual approach to weight loss may help - by losing weight more slowly, the skin has more time to adjust and may retain more of its elasticity, reducing the severity of any facial changes. 

Additionally, staying hydrated,⁴ maintaining a healthy skincare routine, and incorporating strength training to support muscle tone can also improve skin appearance.⁵

The media’s role in the "Ozempic face" narrative

The media has played a significant role in exaggerating concerns about "Ozempic face". This has been so widespread that there’s even been a study into the connection between social media and the effects of the trend.⁶

Key findings include:

1. Role of social media: Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok have amplified discussions around "Ozempic face". Posts and videos often feature dramatic before-and-after comparisons with little or no context, fueling public concern.

2. Patient perceptions: Many patients were influenced by this, leading to heightened anxieties about using Ozempic for weight loss. Some patients delayed or discontinued the medication due to fears of “Ozempic face”.

3. Medical community response: While physicians acknowledge that rapid weight loss can lead to changes in facial appearance, the exaggerated portrayal of "Ozempic face" on social media distorts patient expectations and undermines the benefits of the medication.

4. Need for accurate information: Healthcare providers should proactively address patient concerns by providing accurate, evidence-based information about the effects of Ozempic and the overall impact of weight loss on appearance.

This research underscores the growing influence of social media in shaping medical perceptions and calls for more responsible communication from both the public and medical professionals.

The media’s focus on aesthetics can also overshadow the health benefits that come with using medications like Ozempic for weight loss. While it’s important to address concerns about facial changes, the broader context of health improvement should remain the priority.

The numan take

"Ozempic face" is neither a complete myth nor a reality unique to weight loss medications. It’s simply a reflection of rapid weight loss, which can lead to changes in facial appearance, such as volume loss and sagging skin. 

Ultimately, the choice to use any weight loss treatment should be based on a thorough consideration of the health benefits and potential side effects, with a focus on improving your long-term health, rather than just one aesthetic aspect. 

References

1. Jain, A. B., Ali, A., Gorgojo Martínez, J. J., Hramiak, I., Kavia, K., Madsbad, S., … Vilsbøll, T. (2021). Switching between GLP‐1 receptor agonists in clinical practice: Expert consensus and practical guidance. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 75(2). doi:10.1111/ijcp.13731

2. Sami, K., Elshahat, A., Moussa, M., Abbas, A., & Mahmoud, A. (2015). Image analyzer study of the skin in patients with morbid obesity and massive weight loss. Eplasty, 15, e4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4311578/

3. Scully, T., Ettela, A., LeRoith, D., & Gallagher, E. J. (2021). Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and Cancer Risk. Frontiers in oncology, 10, 615375. https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2020.615375

4. Palma, L., Marques, L. T., Bujan, J., & Rodrigues, L. M. (2015). Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 8, 413–421. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S86822

5. Nishikori, S., Yasuda, J., Murata, K., Takegaki, J., Harada, Y., Shirai, Y., & Fujita, S. (2023). Resistance training rejuvenates aging skin by reducing circulating inflammatory factors and enhancing dermal extracellular matrices. Scientific reports, 13(1), 10214. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-37207-9

6. Carboni, A., Woessner, S., Martini, O., & Waller, J. (2024). Social media’s influence on perceptions of semaglutide: The rise of “Ozempic face.” Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 23(1), 1367–1368. https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.7613