by Cynthia Golomb, MD
If you have an inflammatory skin condition like psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, polycystic ovary syndrome or Hailey-Hailey disease, a GLP-1, like semaglutide or tirzepatide, may provide relief.
Although we do not know all the reasons why GLP-1s improve conditions like psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa, we do know that treating obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia leads to better overall control of these skin diseases and joint symptoms.
However, you should be aware that many patients on these drugs experience hair loss and facial volume loss. One study found that 70 percent of GLP-1 users experienced hair loss. Telogen effluvium is a common type of hair loss caused by medications, and GLP-1 agonists are among these drugs. In addition, GLP-1s slow caloric intake, which can lead to vitamin deficiencies and poor nutrition.
Facial volume loss affects both fat and bone. Weight loss also affects our skin. Weight loss reduces thick collagen fibers and increases the degradation and fragmentation of elastic fibers, resulting in laxity and facial sagging, often called “Ozempic face.”
What I do for my GLP-1 patients
To check on nutrition and to avoid vitamin deficiencies, I order labs focused on Vitamin D, zinc, selenium, iron and ferritin. I also recommend that my patients eat a well-balanced diet and maintain 1200-1500 calories per day, with a focus on one gram of protein per pound of body weight from foods like beans, meat, cheese and yogurt. Of course, exercise plays a critical role in weight loss by improving mood, self-confidence and cognitive function. I encourage at least 20 minutes of exercise three times a week.
To avoid Ozempic face, I offer fillers and biostimulators to my GLP-1 patients. One multicenter study has shown that Poly-L-lactic (Sculptra) and two hyaluronic acid midface fillers (LYFT and Contour) improved skin quality and restored facial balance in patients who experienced weight loss from GLP-1s. These patients also showed improvement in hydration and skin radiance.
GLP-1s are not for everyone, and there are some side effects and risks, including diarrhea, constipation, pancreatitis, thyroid tumors and the risk of aspiration pneumonia with sedation. The most serious adverse event is non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). It is an uncommon but irreversible event that is more common in people with diabetes.
I discuss GLP-1s with my patients who have inflammatory skin conditions and may benefit from this treatment.
Need Help with Your Inflammatory Skin Condition?
If you would like to learn more about treating inflammatory skin disease with GLP-1s, contact Dermatology Boutique, based in Hallandale Beach, FL. We help patients throughout Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach, North Miami Beach, Golden Beach, Bal Harbour, Hollywood and Pembroke Pines, FL.
Contact Dr. Golomb, a Triple-Board Certified Dermatologist
Book your appointment online today. Or call or text 954-251-0367 to schedule your appointment with triple board certified Dr. Cynthia Golomb. With certifications in Dermatology, Dermatopathology and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery (Mohs) awarded by the American Board of Dermatology, Dr. Golomb can guide you towards healthier and more vibrant skin. With more than 25 years of experience, she can ensure your skin gets the treatment it needs.
