Written by: Ryan Clark, Health & Wellness Writer
Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Sarah Mitchell, MBBS, MRCGP — General Practitioner
Last Updated: February 2026 | Fact-Checked ✓
Ozempic face is a widely discussed concern among people considering semaglutide weight loss injections like Wegovy and Ozempic. The term “Ozempic face” has become a viral phenomenon, appearing in headlines and social media feeds to describe the facial changes supposedly caused by weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. The phrase often conjures images of a gaunt, hollowed, and prematurely aged appearance.
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But is “Ozempic face” a direct side effect of the drug itself, or is it simply a consequence of rapid weight loss? This article explains what people mean by “Ozempic face,” the science behind the facial changes, and what can be done to mitigate these effects.
What is “Ozempic Face”?
“Ozempic face” is not a medical term or a clinically recognized side effect. It is a colloquial phrase used to describe the facial changes that can occur following significant and rapid weight loss. These changes are characterized by:
- Loss of Facial Fat: The face loses volume, leading to a more hollowed or gaunt appearance.
- Increased Wrinkles and Fine Lines: With the loss of underlying fat that once plumped up the skin, wrinkles and lines can become more prominent.
- Skin Laxity: The skin may appear looser or saggy, particularly around the cheeks and jawline, as it has lost its supportive structure.
Essentially, the face can appear older because the fat pads that contribute to a youthful contour have diminished.
Is It Caused by Wegovy or Ozempic?
It is crucial to understand that these facial changes are not caused by the semaglutide medication itself. Rather, they are a natural consequence of losing a large amount of weight quickly. This phenomenon can occur with any form of rapid weight loss, whether it’s from bariatric surgery, a very low-calorie diet, or effective medications like Wegovy and Ozempic.
As Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a New York-based dermatologist who coined the term, explained, “‘Ozempic face’ is essentially the same facial volume loss and skin laxity we see with any rapid weight loss, but it has been brought to the forefront by the sheer number of people using these drugs.” [1]
Because medications like Wegovy are so effective at promoting weight loss (with users losing an average of 15% of their body weight), the facial changes can be more dramatic and noticeable than with slower, more traditional weight loss methods.
How to Prevent or Mitigate “Ozempic Face”
While some degree of facial volume loss is inevitable with significant weight loss, there are steps you can take to minimize the effects and support healthy skin.
- Prioritize Protein Intake: Ensure you are eating enough protein to support skin elasticity and collagen production.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining skin health and plumpness.
- Adopt a Good Skincare Routine: Use products containing ingredients like retinol (to boost collagen), hyaluronic acid (to hydrate), and vitamin C (an antioxidant).
- Sun Protection: Protect your face from the sun to prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin.
- Slower is Better: While tempting, losing weight at a slightly more gradual pace can give your skin more time to adjust.
- Dermal Fillers: Hyaluronic acid fillers can be strategically injected into areas like the cheeks, temples, and under-eyes to restore volume and create a more youthful contour.
- Biostimulators: Injectables like Sculptra or Radiesse stimulate your body’s own collagen production, providing a more gradual and natural-looking restoration of volume.
- Skin Tightening Procedures: Treatments using radiofrequency or ultrasound energy can help tighten loose skin.
Aesthetic Treatments for Facial Volume Loss
For those who are concerned about the changes to their facial appearance, several aesthetic treatments can help restore lost volume and improve skin quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does everyone on Wegovy get “Ozempic face”?
No. The extent of facial changes depends on several factors, including the amount of weight lost, the speed of the weight loss, age, genetics, and skin quality.
2. Is “Ozempic face” permanent?
The loss of facial fat is permanent, but the appearance can be improved with lifestyle measures and aesthetic treatments. If a person regains weight, facial volume will also return.
3. Should I be worried about “Ozempic face”?
For most people, the significant health benefits of losing excess weight—such as reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers—far outweigh the cosmetic concerns of facial changes. It is a trade-off that many are willing to accept for improved overall health.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your GP or specialist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Individual results may vary.