Pop culture’s on-again-off-again, love-hate relationship with Ozempic can only be justified by a never-ending arc – a narrative that seems to continue indefinitely or has no clear resolution, often leading to a sense of frustration or disappointment. Over the years, the popular weight loss drug has broken the confines of the glamour industry and found its way to common American households. Although Ozempic is a prescription drug for people with type 2 diabetes, it has made its name as one of the leading drugs in the weight loss game.

However, apart from delivering stunning results when it comes to weight loss, Ozempic comes with several cons as well. Some of those downsides of using the popular drugs are rapidly growing, making quite a stir on the internet, the Ozempic face being one of them.


What is Ozempic face?

"Ozempic face" is a non-medical term that refers to the noticeable facial changes, including gauntness, sunken cheeks, and loose skin, that can occur as a result of rapid weight loss, often associated with medications like Ozempic, semaglutide, and other GLP-1 drugs.

Endocrinologist Vinni Makin, MD, explained to the Cleveland Clinic, “The term ‘Ozempic face’ refers to the changes in the face that can happen with rapid weight loss. It’s characterized by gauntness, sunken cheeks, new wrinkles, and loose skin on the face and neck.”


The term is used in reference to the sagging, hollowed appearance that can result from rapid weight loss. This side effect is due to the loss of facial fat and a decrease in collagen, leading to wrinkles, sunken eyes, and sagging jowls.

Makin noted that the Ozempic face isn’t a side effect of the medication itself. Rather, it’s a side effect of the rapid weight loss the medication can bring.

Here’s a detailed explanation:

Rapid weight loss: The primary cause of the Ozempic face is the rapid loss of fat, including facial fat, that can occur with medications like Ozempic.

Facial changes: This rapid fat loss can lead to a variety of noticeable facial changes, including:

Hollowed cheeks: The loss of fat in the cheeks can make them appear sunken or hollowed.

Sagging skin: The skin may sag and lose elasticity as it adjusts to the loss of underlying fat.

Changes in facial contours: The overall shape of the face may change, with areas like the jawline and under-eye area appearing more prominent.

Increased wrinkles: Fine lines and wrinkles may become more noticeable as the skin loses elasticity.


What causes Ozempic face?

Although it's important to note that the Ozempic face is not a direct side effect of the medication itself, it is a consequence of the rapid weight loss it can induce.


Ozempic face is primarily caused by the loss of facial fat, which can lead to a hollowed or gaunt look. The skin may not be able to adjust quickly to the rapid fat loss, resulting in sagging and a less defined facial structure. This effect is more pronounced in individuals who lose a significant amount of weight in a short period.

Weight loss, especially rapid weight loss, affects fat throughout the body, including the face. This can lead to a loss of volume and support under the skin, resulting in a hollowing effect. Moreover, as we age, our skin naturally loses elasticity, and when we lose fat quickly, the skin may not have time to contract and shrink back to its original shape. This can result in loose and sagging skin, particularly in the face.


How can Ozempic face be avoided?

In some cases, facial changes associated with rapid weight loss can improve over time, especially with proactive measures like maintaining a stable weight and following a good skincare routine. However, it is better to minimize the damage before it’s done.


To minimize or avoid the Ozempic Face, focus on gradual weight loss, maintain hydration, and prioritize protein intake. Additionally, skincare routines and medical treatments can help improve facial appearance after weight loss.

The following are some tips:

Gradual weight loss: Aim for a sustainable and gradual approach to weight loss rather than rapid changes, according to NuBody Concepts.

Healthy lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and incorporate regular exercise to support overall health and potentially minimize facial changes.

Skincare: Use skincare products that promote collagen production and improve skin elasticity.

Consider cosmetic procedures: If facial changes are significant, cosmetic procedures like fillers or other options can help restore lost volume and improve skin elasticity.

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