Ozempic Face Came First, Now it's Ozempic Hair and Muscle Loss?

What’s the deal with Ozempic face?

Ozempic face refers to a distinct loss of fat and skin elasticity in the face after losing weight on injectable medications. Those who complain of this unwanted side effect feel like the weight loss caused them to look noticeably older. Ozempic hair and muscle loss is now a new emerging symptom of taking injections and refers to accelarated hair shedding and muscle definition decline.

While this daunting triad of side effects can be common while taking Ozempic, they are also common symptoms that can happen from any significant or rapid weight loss - regardless of how you achieved it.

Weight loss is a stressor on the body. When you lose weight it means you’re eating less calories; eating less calories means your body is likely getting less nutrients that are responsible for preserving lean muscle mass, skin elasticity and healthy hair.

That said, while some of this is unavoidable, you can certainly minimize the effect it has on you.

How can you reduce the risk of “Ozempic Face” and “Ozempic Muscle and Hair Loss”?

  • Make sure you’re eating enough protein (>1.2 grams of protein per Kg of body weight)

  • Don’t eat less than 1,000 calories per day or 500 calories under your BMR or REE

  • Get regular lab work and supplement when necessary/appropriate

  • Work with an RD who can help you put together a plan to manage and minimize hair, skin and muscle loss. They can also guide on your journey to finding a healthy, happy and SUSTAINABLE weight goal.

No matter what, if you’re noticing unfavorable changes in your appearance post weight loss, it is not hopeless - help is here. Schedule an appointment today.

Lisa Moskovitz