Semaglutide and the skin: A brief review of dermatologic implications

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, is widely used for the management of Type II diabetes mellitus. However, its increasing off-label use for rapid weight loss has brought attention to its unintended effects on facial esthetics and skin health. One of the most prominent consequences is “semaglutide face,” characterized by facial hollowing, loss of subcutaneous fat, skin sagging, and premature aging due to fat redistribution, collagen depletion, and muscle loss. This article explores the mechanisms by which semaglutide affects the skin and overall appearance, highlighting the accelerated aging process caused by reduced elastin, collagen breakdown, and structural changes in facial anatomy. The clinical presentation of semaglutide-induced facial changes and the available treatment modalities – ranging from dermal fillers, platelet-rich plasma, and radiofrequency microneedling to surgical interventions such as facelifts and fat grafting – are discussed. While semaglutide offers significant metabolic benefits, its esthetic implications necessitate careful patient counseling and treatment planning. Understanding the dermatological effects of GLP-1 agonists is crucial for physicians and dermatologists to provide appropriate interventions and mitigate unwanted facial changes in patients undergoing semaglutide therapy.