Following a global surge in the demand for weight loss drugs, few brand names have become as popular as Ozempic. In fact, according to manufacturer Novo Nordisk, Ozempic sales saw a 36% increase in 2023. The semaglutide, which is used both in the medical treatment of Type 2 diabetes and chronic obesity, is also largely considered responsible for helping Novo Nordisk hit a $500 billion market value recently.
That said, while Ozempic has largely been met with excitement, there have been concerns about its impact on the skin. More specifically, a post shared on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reveals that a growing number of patients are voicing their concerns that Ozempic use may cause them to have excess skin. This concern has been widely shared online, even among those who have never used any weight loss drugs, given the popularity of Ozempic and its ilk. In truth, while Ozempic can impact the skin, it’s much more nuanced than the public is led to believe.
Ozempic’s skin-fluence
Anyone who’s spent any time online will surely have seen the term Ozempic face on a post or two. This refers to the gaunt and more wrinkled facial appearance that many Ozempic users experience after having lost some weight. Another commonly seen term is Ozempic butt. As its name implies, this concern has to do with the drug’s effects on the buttocks. Same as with Ozempic face, this occurs following rapid weight loss that causes a decrease in volume when overall fat is lost. Since the butt is one of the most pronounced areas of the body, any significant drop in size and tautness is pretty obvious. Some patients have also seen similar effects on other parts of their body, like the arms or thighs, leading to an appearance that is called Ozempic body.
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However, while the inclusion of the brand name Ozempic makes for more attention-grabbing headlines, there are two important facts to keep in mind. First, Ozempic doesn’t actually directly cause these effects. Rather, these are brought on by the rapid weight loss triggered by the drug. Losing a large amount of weight, especially in a small window, affects how the skin contracts. So, when the fat that was previously supplying volume is suddenly gone, the skin is not elastic enough to “snap back.” This causes a loose and saggy appearance. As such, healthcare providers explain that these skin effects can happen following any weight loss method that offers quick results, regardless of whether they even make use of medication or not.
Second, while worrying for many, these effects are not inevitable. According to doctors who have worked with Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy users, not everyone experiences these skin-related side effects. Instead, it also has to do with your genetics, age, diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits. For instance, somebody who smokes is much more likely to develop a saggy and hollowed-out look should they lose a large amount of weight rapidly.
Skin tips for weight loss
The good news is that any skin-related side effects of rapid weight loss can be prevented or minimized. For starters, specialists suggest consuming more plant-based foods that are rich in antioxidants. This includes foods like spinach, lentils, and oranges. Aside from helping the skin repair itself, most of these can also stimulate collagen production. Eating more lean protein and healthy fats can also help. Foods like avocados and salmon can help maintain the skin, bones, and muscles.
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Regularly working out can also improve the appearance of the skin. Notably, strength training and aerobic exercises work best since they can encourage the creation of hormones that enhance skin health. Working out often also creates the muscle tone that helps “fill in” the gap left by fat. Since not everyone who comes from obesity can take part in more high-impact workouts, undergoing a low-impact practice can help. For instance, yoga is a good option since it focuses more on breathing and slower, purposeful poses. Described in Sakshi Sood’s article on how to start yoga as a balance of effort and ease, this workout can improve strength, muscle endurance, and flexibility. This creates a more joint-friendly but equally rewarding physical activity.
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