The Rise of 'Ozempic Face'
Addressing Skin Laxity from Rapid Weight Loss
In recent years, the medical world has seen a surge in the use of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Manjaro for weight loss. While these medications have proven effective for shedding pounds, they’ve also given rise to an unexpected side effect: ‘Ozempic face’. This phenomenon refers to the facial changes that occur due to rapid weight loss, often leaving individuals looking older and gaunter than they’d like.
What causes 'Ozempic face'
The primary cause of ‘Ozempic face’ is the loss of fat in both deep and superficial facial fat pads. This can result in a hollowed, sunken appearance, increased skin laxity, and more pronounced lines and wrinkles. The under-eye area often appears darker and more recessed, contributing to an overall tired look.
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What are the available treatments for 'Ozempic face'?
Fortunately, the aesthetic medical field has developed several effective treatments to combat these issues. One promising approach is the use of IV vitamin infusions. These treatments deliver a potent mix of nutrients directly into the bloodstream, boosting the skin’s ability to repair itself and produce essential proteins. Key components often include Vitamin C for cell revitalisation, glutathione for its powerful antioxidant effects, and amino acid complexes to jumpstart collagen and elastin production. Many practitioners also include NAD+, a compound that helps regulate cellular processes and can significantly enhance the efficacy of other treatments.
While dermal fillers might seem like an obvious solution to restore lost volume, experts caution against relying solely on this approach. Instead, they recommend focusing on treatments that stimulate collagen production, addressing the root cause of skin laxity.
Energy-based devices
Energy-based devices have shown remarkable results in this area. The Fotona 4D Laser, for instance, stimulates collagen production both from within and on the surface of the skin. It’s particularly effective for addressing laxity in the lower face. Another popular option is RF microneedling, exemplified by treatments like SECRET RF. This technique not only improves skin texture but can also be combined with the delivery of antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and even exosomes through the microchannels created during treatment.
Injectable collagen stimulators
Injectable collagen stimulators represent another frontier in combating ‘Ozempic face’. Products like Lanluma, Sculptra, Lenisna, and Juvelook work by triggering the body’s own collagen production. Unlike traditional fillers, these treatments improve overall skin quality and prevent further laxity without adding excessive volume. Lenisna, for example, is a progressive collagen stimulator that can show visible improvements in as little as two weeks, with effects that can last for years. Juvelook has gained popularity for its effectiveness in addressing the delicate under-eye area, helping to diminish dark circles and hollowing.
To Conclude
It’s important to note that while these treatments offer promising solutions, the most effective approach to combating ‘Ozempic face’ is typically a customised combination of therapies. A qualified aesthetic medical professional can assess an individual’s specific needs and develop a tailored treatment plan. This might involve a series of treatments over time, addressing both the immediate visible effects of weight loss and the longer-term structural changes in the skin.
While the weight loss achieved through GLP-1 drugs can be life-changing, it’s crucial to consider the potential impact on facial aesthetics. By understanding the phenomenon of ‘Ozempic face’ and exploring the advanced treatments available, individuals can enjoy the health benefits of weight loss while maintaining a youthful, vibrant appearance. The key lies in a holistic approach that nourishes the skin from within, stimulates natural rejuvenation processes, and addresses volume loss in a measured, natural-looking way.
