By Cynthia Golomb, MD
With obesity comes additional skin complications. For example, many dermatologic conditions like psoriasis, yeast infections and bacterial infections are more severe in people with a higher body mass index (BMI) ratio. Because obesity and skin issues are connected, reducing body fat can improve skin health. A medication like tirzepatide can reduce Adipose tissue (fat) and make skin healthier. Learn more about what to expect from tirezepatide and how obesity and skin issues are interconnected.
How Adipose Tissue Impacts Skin
As many of my patients have discovered, when they gain a significant amount of weight, skin complications often follow. Adipose tissue is a tissue rich in immune cells, collagen and blood vessels. It can release hormones that can regulate metabolic dysfunction. However, when expanding fat stretches the skin, this can lead to thinner skin and visible changes of mechanical stress. One example would be thicker, rougher, drier skin on the feet. An individual may also have collagen abnormalities because of decreased mechanical resistance. A skin’s mechanical resistance is essential in how well it can protect itself from damage and heal.
According to a study done by Martina M. Cartwright, PhD, 73% of adult Americans are overweight or face obesity. As a result, many patients who are dealing with skin complications start with a treatment like tirezepatide to reduce their weight. Overweight conditions result from a positive energy balance when calorie intake is higher than caloric expenditure over time. This positive energy balance leads to complications in the skin, including poor wound healing, increased biological age, vascular impairment, wrinkles and “sugar sag” or aged facial appearance. In other words, obesity and skin issues are often found together.
Tirzepatide Can Reduce Weight & Improve Dermatologic Conditions
Reducing body fat is advantageous in dermatologic skin conditions and aesthetic dermatology. Using weight loss medications such as tirzepatide can be beneficial in many dermatologic conditions. With less fatty tissue, skin has a chance to be healthier.
However, there can be a downside to using tirzepatide for obesity and skin issues. A person’s metabolic history and biological age play a role in how tirzepatide affects them and what side effects occur. Many people with rapid weight loss following GLP-1 agonists find that they have decreased facial volume, loose skin and hair shedding. Since many of the patients using this drug are over the age of 40 and also have diabetes, they can retain signs of “obese skin” after losing weight.
Glp-1 inhibitors, like tirzepatide, work partly by delaying gastric emptying time, which may also lead to nutrient deficiencies and hair and skin changes. So “Ozempic face” may be secondary to more than volume loss. As noted by Cartwright’s study found in Practical Dermatology, “it can be surmised that some of these patients have suffered from obesity and high blood glucose for several years; thus, despite weight loss, the mechanical and physiological skin changes caused by obesity, age, and prolonged dysglycemia remain.”
However, many patients do achieve excellent results using tirzepatide for obesity and skin care issues.
Which Patients May Benefit from Tirzepatide?
I have been prescribing tirzepatide to my patients who are candidates because of a high BMI and comorbid conditions such as recurrent infections and psoriasis. My patients are having excellent results. While “Ozempic face” is a possibility, a solid skin care regimen can reduce the side effects of tirzepatide. I work with my patients by recommending a good skin care regimen consisting of sunscreen, antioxidants and retinoids or growth factors. With these additions, we can combat the contributing factors seen after years of high blood glucose levels.
Depending on your unique skin and specific needs, I may also recommend a variety of different treatments. This individualized approach ensures that you receive the best possible care for your skin:
- Neurotoxins like Botox, dermal fillers and biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra can soften wrinkles and restore facial fullness.
- SkinVive, an injectable hyaluronic acid, stimulates collagen production, which increases elasticity, improves skin texture and gives a healthy, youthful dewy appearance.
- Microneedling such as SkinPen and Genius can enhance skin quality, firmness and lift by promoting collagen production.
- BBL HERO, LaseMD Ultra and chemical peels are corrective treatments that can help with uneven skin tone, fine lines and roughness.
Get Started with Trizepatide in Hallandale Beach, FL
If you would like to learn more about getting started with trizepatide, 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. If you are facing obesity or an inflammatory skin disease, Dr. Golomb can provide insight into what’s happening in your body and offer solutions to improve your skin.
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.
