Facing The Change: How To Navigate “Ozempic Face” With Confidence

As GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro continue to gain popularity for weight loss and blood sugar control, a new concern is cropping up in dermatology clinics: “Ozempic face.” Characterized by skin laxity and facial volume loss, these unintended effects are leading more patients to seek expert guidance. We spoke with Dr. Shannon Humphrey, renowned dermatologist and Medical Director at Humphrey & Beleznay Cosmetic Dermatology, about how to proactively care for your skin before, during, and after GLP-1 therapy—because looking good and feeling good should go hand in hand. —Noa Nichol

You’ve seen a rise in patients asking about “Ozempic face” and “Ozempic skin”—what exactly are those terms referring to, and why are they happening?

These terms are now widely used to describe visible changes in facial appearance that some patients experience while on GLP-1 therapies such as Ozempic or Mounjaro. Originally developed to regulate blood sugar in patients with diabetes, these medications have surged in popularity for weight loss, weight maintenance, and off-label uses such as reducing alcohol cravings and systemic inflammation. GLP-1s are, in my view, revolutionizing medicine, and aesthetic medicine is beginning to see their impact.

“Ozempic face” and “Ozempic skin” typically refer to facial volume loss, skin laxity, dullness, or a general change in contour and skin quality. However, the reasons behind these changes are complex and multifactorial. Some stem from direct effects of the medication, others from weight loss itself or macronutrient deficiencies.

We often observe dermal and subcutaneous fat loss. In some patients, the behavior of fat cells and fat stem cells may also shift. Additionally, there are changes in hormone production and metabolic factors that may affect skin structure and resilience. Muscle mass may diminish, reducing the mechanical tension on bone and potentially accelerating bone remodeling. These combined changes can subtly alter facial structure and skin vitality, which is why individual expert assessment is essential.

You’ve said the best time to consult with an aesthetic physician is before starting GLP-1 medication. Why is that proactive step so important?

In all areas of medicine, we do a much better job with prevention than treatment, and we can plan ahead for these expected changes. Consulting an aesthetic physician before starting GLP-1 therapy allows us to take a thoughtful, conservative approach to support the skin and facial anatomy as the body adapts.

We can implement treatments that stimulate collagen and elastin, support the skin barrier, and preserve facial volume—all of which help patients maintain confidence and natural balance throughout their journey.

What early intervention treatments do you recommend to help patients maintain skin health and facial volume during their GLP-1 journey?

The most effective plans are personalized. I often recommend collagen biostimulators to maintain structure and elasticity, and skin-tightening technologies to help maintain lift and firmness.

Complexion-focused treatments play an important role as well, improving barrier function, enhancing radiance, and supporting connective tissue. In some cases, autologous fat transfer or fat-targeted aesthetic treatments may be considered to help maintain balance and fullness.

How do you customize treatment plans for patients on Ozempic or Mounjaro? Do factors like age, weight loss goals, or skin type change your approach?

Yes. A patient’s age, rate and amount of weight loss, skin type, and baseline skin quality all inform how we build their treatment plan. For example, a younger patient with minimal weight loss might respond well to skin-tightening alone, whereas someone undergoing significant transformation may benefit from regenerative treatments, injectables, or both.

The goal is to support the patient’s individual biology and goals while preserving natural facial harmony.

Can you explain the role of collagen biostimulators and energy-based lifting in restoring volume and firmness to the face?

Collagen biostimulators activate the body’s own regenerative capacity to rebuild collagen and elastin—two of the most critical proteins for skin structure. These are especially effective in counteracting the structural changes that may accompany weight loss.

Energy-based lifting treatments such as ultrasound or radiofrequency technologies target deeper layers of tissue, stimulating collagen and encouraging the skin to maintain lift and firmness. When used together, these treatments support long-term skin integrity and balance.

You’ve noted that nutrient deficiencies can dull skin during rapid weight loss. How do you help patients address this from both an aesthetic and wellness perspective?

Rapid weight loss without adequate nutritional support can lead to dryness, dullness, decreased elasticity, and slower skin recovery. Patients on a GLP-1 often have some appetite suppression, so selecting nutrient-dense and balanced food choices is critical. From a wellness perspective, we encourage patients to consult with their medical provider to ensure proper nutritional intake. On the aesthetic side, we offer treatments and regimens that repair the skin barrier, boost hydration, and stimulate collagen to restore glow and resilience. 

We may also recommend targeted supplements or topicals to support the skin from within and externally.

Are there any myths or misconceptions about aesthetic treatments for “Ozempic face” that you’d like to clear up?

A common misconception is that dermal filler is the only or best option. While filler can help restore volume, it is not always the appropriate first step, particularly if there is significant skin laxity or compromised skin quality.

We take a holistic, regenerative approach that considers complete facial anatomy—skin, fat, muscle, and bone. Overcorrecting with filler can result in unnatural outcomes. Layered treatments that restore function and harmony are proven to produce more natural and lasting results.

What’s your overall message to patients who want to prioritize their appearance while also achieving health goals with GLP-1 medications?

You don’t need to choose between your health goals and your appearance. GLP-1s offer real benefits for many patients. With thoughtful, expert aesthetic care, you can maintain your skin’s vitality and facial structure throughout the process.

Work with a physician who understands both facial aging and the evolving role of GLP-1 therapies. With the right approach, your skin can reflect your overall well-being and the positive changes you’re making for your health.