Skin Impacts and Tradeoffs of GLP-1 Therapy: Improved Patient-Reported Outcomes of Inflammatory Skin Disease in the Era of “Ozempic Face” - Summary - MDSpire
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Dermatological Effects and Considerations of GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Therapy: Enhanced Patient-Reported Outcomes for Inflammatory Skin Conditions Amidst the "Ozempic Face" Phenomenon

  • By

  • Saroja Rao

  • Isabella Midura

  • Kathyana P. Santiago Mangual

  • Leon I. Igel

  • Katherine H. Saunders

  • Jocelyn Carter

  • Jenny E. Murase

  • Arianne Shadi Kourosh

  • August 11, 2026

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Objective:

To identify changes reported by patients in their skin, hair, and nails related to weight management treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including the frequency of dermatologic effects associated with weight loss.

Approach:
  • Survey Development and Administration: An anonymous survey was conducted among patients undergoing GLP-1RA weight management therapy, focusing on dermatologic, muscular, and aesthetic effects.
  • Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient-reported outcomes, with Cochran–Armitage trend tests assessing adverse outcomes across weight loss categories.
Key Findings:
  • Patients reported improvements in inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa.
  • With higher weight loss percentages, adverse dermatologic effects such as skin sagging, hair loss, and decreased facial volume became more pronounced.
  • 72% of patients with >20% weight loss reported skin sagging; 52% reported hair loss.
Interpretation:

The study identifies a correlation between significant weight loss from GLP-1RA therapy and increased reports of negative dermatologic outcomes.

Limitations:
  • The study relies on self-reported data, which may be subject to bias.
  • Further research is needed to assess the frequency and management of these dermatologic effects.
Conclusion:

Dermatologists should educate patients on potential dermatologic effects of GLP-1RA therapy.

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