What Is Ozempic and How Does It Work?

Ozempic is the prescription medication semaglutide that is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection and is used to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar.

Semaglutide is also used for weight management because it copies hormones that your body naturally makes when you eat that are responsible for how well your metabolism functions. Semaglutide works with your natural hormones to suppress your appetite, control food cravings, and help you feel full for a longer time after eating by slowing down the speed at which your stomach empties. It also helps optimize your metabolism by influencing the release of insulin and the regulation of your blood sugar.

Does Semaglutide Cause Acne?

Acne is not an officially known side effect of semaglutide, but some people have noticed more breakouts after starting to use it. The most common side effects that are included in the Ozempic literature are nausea, diarrhea, and belly cramps, but acne is not officially listed, although some people have reported changes to their skin.

What Is the Link Between Semaglutide and Acne?

Some people who start using semaglutide begin to experience breakouts, and they believe it is this new medication that is causing it. Another theory that some believe to be behind semaglutide and skin sensitivity is that it is caused by your body going through some type of detox process.

And while this seems to make sense, since you are eating healthier, your body does not really “detox” through acne in the way people often describe it. Your liver and kidneys are the organs that filter out toxins, but your skin is not a major detox organ, though it can sometimes be influenced by changes happening inside your body.

Here is what might actually be going on:

Sudden diet changes such as eating cleaner and cutting out foods like dairy or sugar, can cause your body to react with a temporary flare-up of acne before things settle down. Some people refer to this as “detox acne,” but it’s really your body adjusting to new habits rather than a true detox process.
Ozempic slows down your digestive system, which can alter your gut bacteria. Changes in gut health can sometimes influence your skin and contribute to breakouts.
Using Ozempic increases your GLP-1 hormone levels and affects insulin and other hormones. These hormonal shifts can lead to excess oil production in your skin, clogging pores and causing acne.
Rapid weight loss, which can occur with Ozempic, may release stored hormones and fat-soluble substances into your bloodstream. This sudden release can impact your skin and trigger breakouts.

Has There Been Any Research That Links Semaglutide and Acne?

Yes, there have been numerous studies about the side effects of GLP-1 medications like semaglutide, and some have not found any direct evidence that these medications cause acne, and others show a higher risk for acne in women.

One review of six GLP‑1 medications, including once‑weekly semaglutide, found no direct link between semaglutide and acne. The review cited that any breakouts are more likely due to weight;
A large study of adults who did not have type 2 diabetes who were using semaglutide, liraglutide, or tirzepatide to lose weight reported that women were more likely to develop acne after starting treatment, while no significant risk increase was seen in men. While the findings of this study are not conclusive, the author did note that the reason more women than men may be experiencing acne when using Ozempic and similar medications is most likely due to hormonal differences between the two genders;
A letter in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology also suggested that women can experience acne when using semaglutide and called for more investigation into this issue;
Other studies found no strong link in clinical trials, but some users on social media are saying they experienced breakouts when first starting on GLP-1 medication.

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Some Tips if You Are Getting Acne on Ozempic

If you are experiencing acne after starting semaglutide injections, some of the things you can do to help alleviate it include:

Talk to your doctor or dermatologist: If you have recently started using semaglutide and breakouts are not normal for you, speak to your doctor or visit a dermatologist. They can determine if what you are experiencing is due indirectly to changes your body is going through because of the GLP-1 medication or if the acne is being caused by something else.
Take good care of your skin: To help reduce breakouts, wash your face gently twice a day using a mild cleanser. Use skincare products that are labeled non-comedogenic, which means they will not clog your pores. If you are still dealing with acne after a few months, try adding a product with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can help combat pimples and clear up the skin.
Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet: Drink enough water to keep your hydration levels up so your body can better flush out toxins, and stay away from excess sugar, processed, and greasy foods because they can trigger acne. Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, good fats, and protein. These foods are rich in vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants, which help protect your skin from damage, support healing, and keep it looking clear and healthy from the inside out.
Make gradual changes: Losing weight too fast can cause rapid hormone shifts that can result in the loss of hair and skin issues. Using healthy strategies that help you gradually lose weight is more gentle on your body and will reduce these types of side effects.
Exercise and sauna time: Exercise and spending time in the sauna can both be good for your skin and help alleviate acne, as long as you take care of your skin right afterward. Working out helps increase blood flow and reduces your stress level, which can help clear up breakouts. Time in the sauna will open up your pores, which can help release trapped oil and dirt.

It is important to cleanse your skin soon after these activities because if you leave sweat, oil, or bacteria on your skin too long, it can clog pores and make acne worse.

The Bottom Line

Ozempic has not been proven to directly cause acne, and it is not listed as a direct side effect, but individuals have reported experiencing acne when starting semaglutide. The studies that have been done have reported different results, so we still do not have a definitive answer to the question, “Can semaglutide cause acne?”

Semaglutide is a great option for many people because it can help them overcome some of the challenges they have had in the past when trying to lose weight. As with any other prescription medication, it can cause side effects, and according to many social media users, it can create an environment that can trigger acne breakouts. Most people report that it fades once their body gets used to the medication, but if you experience acne that continues to be a problem, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor. They can help you find a solution that will keep your weight loss journey on track without sacrificing your skin.

Learn More About Semaglutide

MySlimMed offers semaglutide and other GLP-1 medications that can help you lose weight and improve your health. Dr. Angelina Postoev is triple board-certified and is an expert in weight loss and skincare. You can set up a consultation to determine if semaglutide would be right for you and have your prescription medication conveniently sent right to your door.

Dr. Angelina also has developed a holistic line of skincare products that you can learn about to help keep your skin in optimal shape. Book your consultation today and get started on the path to better health.