Ozempic is a branded preparation of semaglutide, a class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists that mimic the hormones in our bodies responsible for regulating insulin production, glucose metabolism, and appetite. Even though the FDA originally approved Ozempic to treat Type 2 diabetes*, it has recently gained popularity as a weight loss remedy due to a hunger-suppressing side effect.
However, as many people have discovered, rapid weight loss can have unintended effects on the appearance of the face—a phenomenon now popularly termed “Ozempic face.”
Here, we’ll provide an overview of Ozempic, Ozempic Face, and some tips for how to avoid Ozempic Face. If, as you’re reading this, you realize you may have already developed some of the characteristics of Ozempic Face, keep reading. We will also provide a list of aesthetic treatments that you can use to effectively address Ozempic Face.
*Note: As of this publication, Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss.
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic is injected with a prefilled pen. The GLP-1 antagonists contained in the injection target the interaction between gut hormones and neural circuitry to control hunger, lowering glucose production in the liver after a meal. It is prescribed to help regulate sugar levels and lower the risk of cardiovascular issues in adults with Type 2 diabetes.
How Long Does Ozempic Stay in Your System?
Ozempic has a half-life of 1 week, which means it typically stays in your system for about 5 weeks. While this timeline varies from patient to patient, expect its effects to gradually dissipate in the weeks following your final dose. Once you stop taking Ozempic, you may experience rising blood sugar levels and weight gain.
What Is Ozempic Face?
The term “Ozempic Face” refers to the changes in facial appearance that can occur during significant and rapid weight loss—particularly among individuals using GLP-1 agonist-based medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.
When we lose weight, we don’t just shed fat from our waistline; fat loss occurs throughout the body, including the face. Facial fat plays a key role in maintaining youthful contours and fullness. As fat diminishes, it can lead to:
· Hollowed cheeks
· More pronounced fine lines and wrinkles
· Increased skin laxity and sagging
These changes can give the face a gaunt or aged appearance, even though the overall weight loss is a positive health and aesthetic achievement.
What Causes Ozempic Face?
The facial changes associated with Ozempic Face are not exclusive to Ozempic and can occur with any substantial weight loss—whether through medication, diet, or surgical interventions. The speed and extent of weight loss often play a more significant role in these transformations than the specific method.
Patients who take Ozempic for weight loss average an 11% reduction in body fat within the first 6 months. As a result, areas of the skin that were once plump with fat will hang loosely or concave inward. Experts recommend a rate of 1-2 pounds per week for healthy, viable weight loss.
How To Avoid Ozempic Face
Minimizing the potential facial changes associated with rapid weight loss requires a proactive and holistic approach. While complete prevention may not be possible by simply choosing a drug or dosage with a slower weight loss rate, several strategies can be employed to help maintain your skin’s health and appearance along your weight loss journey.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a critical role in maintaining healthy skin.
- Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.
- Incorporate hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables.
- Use moisturizers to support external skin hydration.
Comprehensive Nutrition
Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial during weight loss. Focus on nutrient-dense foods that support skin health, including:
- Adequate protein intake to preserve muscle mass.
- Hydrating foods that are rich in water content.
- Vitamins and minerals that support skin elasticity.
Proactive Lifestyle
Implement practices that support skin health:
Consider taking supplements that support collagen production.
Regular exercise to improve circulation.
Consistent and thoughtful skincare routine.
How To Fix Ozempic Face
At BodyLase, we understand how important it is to look as vibrant and healthy as you feel. That’s why we offer a range of advanced treatments to address the challenges of “Ozempic face” and restore youthful volume and skin tightness. Here are some of our most effective solutions:
For individuals concerned about facial changes they developed along their weight loss journey, consulting with healthcare professionals provides a personalized solution. Treatments like dermal fillers, microneedling, platelet-rich plasma shots (PRP), and skin tightening can help mitigate some of these aesthetic concerns.
Fillers
Dermal fillers offer a quick and effective solution to address facial volume loss. BodyLase offers a variety of filler types to match individual needs, including Juvederm, Radiesse, and RHA fillers. Benefits include:
- Precise targeting of specific facial areas.
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
- Restore youthful contours to the face.
- Minimal downtime and quick results.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a non-surgical skin treatment that creates a controlled series of punctures in the skin. These micro-injuries trigger your body’s innate ability to produce collagen. The result? Firmer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin.
PRP
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a solution extracted from your blood that contains a higher-than-normal concentration of platelets. These platelets are packed with proteins crucial for tissue repair and regeneration, playing a vital role in the body’s natural healing processes. PRP therapy harnesses these innate abilities to minimize fine lines, boost hydration, and improve skin’s overall texture and firmness.
To produce a PRP injection, a small sample of your blood is drawn and then spun in a centrifuge. This process effectively separates the platelet-rich plasma from the other components of the blood, yielding a powerful, natural solution that can be utilized for a variety of cosmetic and medical applications.
Skin-Tightening Treatments
For those struggling with sagging skin and laxity due to Ozempic, our skin-tightening treatments offer powerful solutions:
Thermage FLX
This non-invasive treatment uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, resulting in tighter, firmer skin. Thermage is perfect for areas like the jawline and cheeks that often lose definition during weight loss.
Morpheus 8
Combining microneedling with radiofrequency energy, Morpheus 8 delivers deep skin rejuvenation by tightening and remodeling the skin from within. It’s highly effective for improving texture and firmness.
Experiencing Facial Changes From Rapid Weight Loss?
BodyLase is your premier destination for advanced cosmetic solutions. Our expert providers specialize in personalized treatments designed to restore your confidence and enhance your natural beauty.
With over 22 years of experience in aesthetic treatments, the winner of the News & Observer’s “Best Med Spa” for three years in a row, and a deep understanding of the latest technologies in beauty, BodyLase is committed to helping you look and feel your best.
If you’re experiencing changes in your facial appearance due to weight loss from medications like Ozempic, schedule a consultation today and learn more about how dermal fillers, Thermage FLX, Morpheus 8, and other treatments can help restore youthful volume and vitality to your face.
