Hollywood has ‘Ozempic face’: Why you can look 10 years older after going all in on the slimming drug

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the growing trend of using the diabetes drug Ozempic for weight loss, particularly among celebrities and in Hollywood. It explores the unwanted side effects of this practice, such as premature aging of the face, known as the "Ozempic face."

🙋 Q&A

[01] The Ozempic Craze

1. What is Ozempic and how is it being used for weight loss?

• Ozempic is a medication designed to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, which requires a doctor's prescription.
• Many people, including celebrities, are using Ozempic off-label to benefit from its side effect of loss of appetite and subsequent rapid weight loss.

2. What are the concerns around the use of Ozempic for weight loss?

• One of the unwanted side effects of rapid weight loss from Ozempic is a premature aging of the face, known as the "Ozempic face."
• This can lead to sagging, flaccidity, and loss of facial volume, making people look older than their age.

3. How is the "Ozempic face" changing the aesthetic medicine industry?

• The "Ozempic face" is leading more people, including younger individuals, to seek out procedures like facelifts and other anti-aging treatments to address the premature aging of their faces.
• Health professionals are seeing an increase in patients, even in their 20s, requesting procedures typically designed for those over 50 due to the facial changes caused by Ozempic.

[02] The Science Behind the "Ozempic Face"

1. What are the underlying physiological changes that lead to the "Ozempic face"?

• Rapid weight loss, whether from Ozempic or other means, can lead to a decrease in facial fat compartments, resulting in a more skeletal, aged appearance.
• The loss of facial volume, particularly in the cheeks and jowls, can accentuate expression lines and cause sagging, giving a tired or older look.

2. Why is sudden weight loss more problematic for the face compared to gradual weight loss?

• Sudden and significant weight loss can outpace the skin's ability to adapt, leading to more pronounced facial changes and an aged appearance.
• Gradual weight loss, accompanied by a healthy diet and exercise, allows the skin and facial structures to adjust more naturally, minimizing the premature aging effects.

3. What are the recommendations for healthy weight loss to avoid the "Ozempic face"?

• Experts recommend losing weight gradually and healthily, under the supervision of a healthcare professional, to avoid the rapid facial changes associated with the "Ozempic face."
• Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and allowing the body and skin to adapt to the weight loss can help prevent the premature aging of the face.