Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1544125
88 ASCP Skin Deep Spring 2026 IN THE PAST YEAR OR SO, you might have heard the terms GLP-1 face or Ozempic face used to describe the visible facial changes that can occur due to rapid weight loss from GLP-1 receptor agonists (RAs), more commonly referred to as GLP-1 medications. Social media has been abuzz with plenty of misinformation about the phenomenon. To gain some clarity, ASCP Skin Deep sat down with Armenthia Carr, this year's ASCP Esty of the Year. THE GOOD While a lot of the rhetoric on social media discusses the risks GLP-1RA medications have on facial skin, there are potential benefi ts. "Some clients experience reduced systemic infl ammation as their metabolic health improves, which can have a positive eff ect on the skin," Carr says. That's not to say every client who is on a GLP-1 medication will have the same experience. Carr says it's highly individual, and these benefi ts might be off set with other medication risks if the skin isn't supported properly. THE BAD Rapid weight change from GLP-1 medications can change a person's face drastically. "As facial fat decreases quickly, clients may experience hollowing, laxity, and a more aged appearance," Carr says. The eff ects can extend beyond these superfi cial changes too. "GLP-1 use can increase the risk of dehydration, impaired barrier function, delayed wound healing, and heightened sensitivity to professional treatments and active ingredients," Carr says. This might result in a regular client who suddenly has very diff erent skin needs in their next appointment. BEHIND THE TREND GETTY IMAGES THE CONCLUSION If you have a client who is currently experiencing skin eff ects from GLP-1 use, guide them toward professional treatments that encourage hydration and repair rather than aggressive correction. "Barrier-supportive facials, gentle enzyme exfoliation, LED therapy, and calming, hydration- focused protocols allow the skin to recover safely without compounding damage," Carr says. The client's at-home routine might benefi t from gentle cleansers, hydrating serums, ceramide-rich moisturizers, and sunscreen. If clients are seeking a slimmer face that might result from taking GLP-1 medications, "Estheticians can instead recommend gradual, skin-supportive alternatives that focus on collagen stimulation, lymphatic support, and overall skin health." GLP-1 Face Investigating the good and bad of this viral fad by Jen Anderson Associated Skin Care Professionals Skin Deep magazine (ISSN 1941-2495; USPS-024-571) is a quarterly magazine published by Associated Skin Care Professionals, 25188 Genesee Trail Road, Suite 200, Golden, Colorado 80401. Periodicals rate postage paid at Golden, Colorado, and additional oces. Vol. #25, Issue #2 Spring 2026. All rights reserved © 2026. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ASCP, 25188 Genesee Trail Road, Suite 200, Golden, Colorado 80401. Lighter Skin Tones Darker Skin Tones/Skin of Color Potential Skin Benefi ts of GLP-1 Use • Fewer fl are-ups of infl ammatory conditions • Reduced redness • Fewer fl are-ups of infl ammatory conditions • Reduced congestion Potential Skin Risks of GLP-1 Use • Crepiness • Increased fi ne lines • Textural changes • Visible irritation • Barrier impairment • Dehydration • Increased risk of postinfl ammatory hyperpigmentation • Increased sensitivity