While medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy have gained massive popularity for their remarkable weight loss and diabetes management abilities, they are also causing some unanticipated side effects in users.
Beyond the more common gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, reports are emerging of these GLP-1 drugs leading to surprising cosmetic changes:
Face Thinning Many patients report their faces appearing more gaunt or aged, with hollowed cheeks and eye sockets after significant weight loss on the medications. This may be due to reduction in facial fat.
Hair Loss Excessive shedding and hair thinning or loss seems to affect a notable percentage of users, possibly related to rapid weight loss lowering nutrient levels.
Facial Aging Some observe more wrinkles, sagging under the chin, and an overall more aged facial appearance while taking the drugs, beyond typical weight loss effects.
While not necessarily dangerous side effects, these visible changes are leading to self-consciousness and body image issues for some, especially younger women drawn to the drugs for cosmetic weight loss.
Dermatologists recommend preventive treatments like facial filler, volumizers, and hair growth products to counteract these effects if they develop while on GLP-1 agonists.
Experts stress the importance of weighing the drugs’ benefits against potential vanity concerns around facial and hair changes for each patient. Clear expectations are crucial.
