Background/Objectives: Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA), originally developed for Type II Diabetes, has become popular for weight loss due to its ability to suppress appetite and promote fat loss. Although semaglutide’s metabolic benefits are well established, many patients have also reported unintended facial changes including facial fat atrophy, skin laxity, and an aged appearance, collectively known as “Ozempic face.” Methods: To better understand these dermatological effects, a narrative review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify relevant peer-reviewed literature published between 2010 and 2025. Search terms included “semaglutide,” “GLP-1 receptor agonists,” “Ozempic face,” and “facial fat loss.” Peer-reviewed clinical studies, reviews, and relevant commentary were included; articles not written in English or unrelated to weight-loss aesthetic outcomes were excluded. Results: Weight loss induced by semaglutide is distinctly characterized by rapid, disproportionate depletion of sensitive facial fat compartments such as the malar, temporal, and buccal regions. Preliminary findings also suggest that GLP-1RAs may impact dermal white adipose tissue, affecting collagen production and elastin structure. Findings highlight both the biological mechanisms underlying facial aging in semaglutide users and the current lack of research-based strategies to prevent or treat these changes. Conclusions: Although aesthetic interventions such as dermal fillers and energy-based treatments may help restore volume and contour, more research is needed to characterize long-term effects and develop objective clinical guidelines. Increased counseling and awareness regarding GLP-1RA-induced facial changes should be integrated into patient care, especially as these agents continue to expand in popularity.
22 December 2025 in International Journal of Research in Dermatology
Hyperpigmentation, which includes conditions like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and melasma, disproportionately affects individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI. Although medically benign, hyperpigmentation can cause significant emotional and social distress. Despite growing awareness of dermatologic disparities, research exploring the psychosocial burden of hyperpigmentation among individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI remains limited. This review synthesizes existing literature on the psychosocial impacts associated with hyperpigmentation, focusing on individuals with melanin-rich skin. Studies reveal consistent associations between hyperpigmentation and diminished self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. In many cases, the psychosocial toll was disproportionately greater than the clinical severity of the hyperpigmentation. Cultural beliefs, including colorism and societal beauty standards that favor fair skin, were found to influence how patients perceive their hyperpigmentation, pursue treatment and engage with healthcare providers. There was a notable lack of inclusive clinical studies, culturally sensitive care models and dermatological mental health care. In addition, physicians receive limited medical training on skin of color, further contributing to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Addressing these gaps involves a multifactorial approach including increasing representation amongst dermatological research, developing inclusive educational resources for physicians, incorporating culturally sensitive care, and launching public health campaigns promoting skin health and inclusivity. Recognizing both the clinical and psychological severity associated with hyperpigmentation allows for greater patient-centered care, fostering patient trust, engagement, and treatment compliance.