If you keep up with all things aesthetic trends, you know that the age of GLP-1s has ushered in a whole new era of cosmetic treatment priorities—most notably, the so-called "Ozempic face." While the weight loss drugs in the GLP-1 category are beloved for their fat-burning capabilities, the facial volume loss that can accompany rapid weight loss has become a less-welcome side effect. Many users are now seeking ways to restore the fuller, more youthful look their faces had pre-weight loss.
Though in-office treatments and aesthetic surgeries to combat "Ozempic face" and post-weight loss skin laxity are effective, it's wise to get ahead of the post-GLP-1 skin woes before they start. We tapped expert dermatologists for a rundown of the best products and ingredients to use during GLP-1 treatment to help keep your skin firm and youthful.
Featured Experts
- Jeanine Downie, MD is a dermatologist in Montclair, NJ
- Doris Day, MD is a dermatologist in New York
- Anna Chacon, MD is a dermatologist in Miami, FL
What are the best products and ingredients to prevent skin laxity during GLP-1 use?
Retinoids, vitamin C, exosomes and hydrators for GLP-1 skin
"GLP-1s can lead to fast weight changes, and skin doesn’t always bounce back overnight," says Miami, FL dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD. "To keep skin looking lifted and resilient, I swear by a collagen-boosting retinoid, a peptide-packed serum and a hyaluronic acid hydrator for instant plump," she says. "Layer on a daily antioxidant like vitamin C, and never skip your SPF," which she says is "your skin’s best insurance policy."
In addition to retinoids, New York dermatologist Doris Day, MD recommends honing in on innovative ingredients like exosomes for their proven rejuvenation capabilities and ceramides for deep hydration, as well as up-and-coming ingredients like "mTor1 inhibitors," which she says are "a novel class of molecules that are going to revolutionize skin aging."
The best in-office and OTC products for GLP-1 users
To combat lax skin before it starts, Montclair dermatologist Jeanine Downie, MD recommends a line-up of science-backed serums and treatments. A first-to-market serum unlocking the regenerative power of complete skin secretomes, Dr. Downie swears by LevEllis' PROVOQUE Serum, which you can get from your physician's office. Using a skin-specific secretome matrix comprised of peptides, growth factors, microRNA, exosomes and more, the PROVOQUE Serum is a must-have for use during GLP-1 treatment, as it's clinically proven to show healthier, smoother-looking skin in as little as two weeks.
For head-to-toe treatment at home, Dr. Downie recommends Alastin's TransFORM Body Treatment ($220)—which uses TriHex Technology and a patented LipoDRONE Delivery System for firmer, more toned skin on the body—and SkinMedica's TNS Advanced+ Serum ($295) which smoothes wrinkles and visibly lifts sagging skin with extended use.
