Ozempic face, is just one of the many side effects tied to the drug. Picture: Scott Disick screenshot/New York Post
Image: Scott Disick screenshot/New York Post
IF YOU'VE scrolled through social media lately, you’ve probably seen people talking about "Ozempic face", a new buzzword that has celebs and influencers in a frenzy.
From Hollywood A-listers to everyday people using Ozempic (semaglutide) for weight loss, the side effect has left many wondering: Is achieving a slimmer body worth the cost of a gaunt, sagging face?
Reality TV star Scott Disick was one of the latest celebrities to spark rumors of Ozempic use after fans noticed his noticeably slimmer frame and thinner face. But he’s not alone.
John Goodman, Sharon Osbourne, and countless others have also been linked to the medication, leading to visible changes in their facial structure.
But what exactly is Ozempic face, why does it happen, and most importantly, how can you prevent it while still reaping the weight-loss benefits? Let’s break it down.
Ozempic is an injectable medication developed by Novo Nordisk, primarily designed to help individuals with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar.
Its active ingredient, semaglutide, works by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.
While Ozempic is FDA-approved for diabetes, it’s increasingly being used "off-label" for weight loss, thanks to its ability to suppress hunger and lead to rapid weight reduction.
However, while it’s effective in shedding kilos, Ozempic has a side effect that’s been gaining attention: Ozempic face.
Coined by doctors and aesthetic specialists, Ozempic face describes the sagging, hollow, and aged appearance that some individuals experience after rapid weight loss on Ozempic.
Dr Judey Pretorius, founder of Biomedical Emporium, explains that facial fat plays a critical role in maintaining skin elasticity and structure.
When fat is lost quickly, whether through Ozempic or other forms of rapid weight loss, the skin’s ability to retract diminishes.
This results in:
While these changes aren’t medically harmful, they can affect self-esteem, especially for those who want to look as vibrant as they feel after weight loss.
Rapid weight loss is the main culprit. According to Harvard Health Publishing, losing weight too quickly doesn’t give the skin enough time to adapt to the body’s changing shape.
This is especially true with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, which accelerate weight loss compared to natural methods like diet and exercise. Additionally, the loss of facial fat reveals the bone structure underneath, which can make the face appear more aged or “gaunt.”
It’s important to note that Ozempic face isn’t exclusive to this particular drug; it can happen with any significant and sudden weight loss.
There are plenty of ways to minimise or even avoid Ozempic face while still reaching your weight-loss goals. Here’s how:
1. Lose weight gradually
The faster you lose weight, the more likely you are to experience sagging skin. Aim to lose 0.5–1kg per week, which gives your skin time to adjust.
2. Maintain a healthy diet
Your diet is key to preserving skin elasticity: -Include protein-rich foods like chicken, fish, and legumes to maintain muscle mass.
Eat collagen-boosting foods like citrus fruits, bone broth, and eggs to support the skin’s structure.
Stay hydrated! Drinking water keeps your skin plump and prevents it from looking dry or sunken.
3. Strength training and resistance exercises
Rapid weight loss can lead to a loss of muscle mass, which contributes to a hollow, aged look. Incorporating strength training** into your fitness routine helps maintain muscle tone, which can prevent sagging. Facial exercises, while not scientifically proven to reverse Ozempic face, may help improve facial tone and blood circulation.
4. Use Collagen supplements and skincare products
Collagen peptides are a popular supplement for improving skin elasticity and hydration. Pair this with hyaluronic acid-based moisturizers and serums, which plump and firm the skin.
5. Professional skin treatments
If Ozempic face becomes a concern, there are aesthetic treatments that can help:
Dermal fillers can restore lost volume in the cheeks and jawline.
Skin-tightening treatments like Ultherapy, RF microneedling, and laser therapy stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity.
Biostimulators, such as Sculptra, encourage the skin to produce more collagen naturally.
6. Consult a dermatologist or aesthetic specialist
If you’re worried about facial changes, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A specialist can recommend treatments tailored to your specific needs. Like any medication, Ozempic comes with its benefits and drawbacks.
Ozempic face may sound like a scary side effect, but it’s simply a reminder that rapid weight loss comes with trade-offs.
Whether you’re using Ozempic or pursuing natural weight-loss methods, the key is to prioritise balanced gradual progress, a healthy diet, and proper skin care.
As Pretorius puts it, “Facial fat is protective and supports the skin’s elasticity. Losing it too quickly can lead to shrinkage and sagging, but with the right lifestyle choices, these effects can be minimised.”