GLP-1 medications are currently a hot topic in weight-loss discussions, with new trends and products emerging as a result. Restaurants are offering menus tailored to higher-protein needs, supplements are available to support muscle mass, and there are even skin-care products claiming to address post-GLP-1 skin laxity.
However, experts warn that there is a significant difference between what a cream can do and what requires in-office treatment when it comes to skin laxity. To shed light on the subject, I spoke with two experts in the field—a board-certified dermatologist and a facial plastic surgeon—to determine whether GLP-1 firming skin care is a beneficial addition or simply a marketing ploy. Here’s what they had to say.
Featured Experts
- Paul S. Nassif, MD is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, CA
- Kristina Collins, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Austin, TX and the founder of Foy by Dr. Collins
Why GLP-1 Weight Loss Can Cause Loose Skin
Rapid weight loss on a GLP-1 medication can lead to changes in the skin. According to Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon Paul Nassif, MD, “When someone loses weight quickly on a GLP-1, the skin may appear looser due to the loss of underlying volume and support. A cream cannot replace the structural support provided by collagen, fat, and ligaments.”
Dr. Kristina Collins from Austin, TX, explains that the skin’s response to weight loss can vary based on factors such as age, genetics, the speed of weight loss, and how long the skin was stretched. Younger skin with healthy collagen and elastin tends to rebound better, especially with gradual weight loss and maintained muscle mass.
However, in cases of significant or rapid weight loss, collagen and elastin fibers may become overstretched and damaged, leading to moderate to severe loose skin that may require treatment.
What Skin Care Can (and Can’t) Do for GLP-1 Skin
Dr. Collins notes that most “GLP-1 skin care” products are marketed to address visible changes associated with rapid weight loss, such as dryness, laxity, and facial volume loss. These products do not replicate the internal effects of GLP-1 medications on hormones and metabolism.
Ingredients in these products are aimed at supporting collagen production, improving elasticity, and strengthening the skin barrier. Retinoids, peptides, niacinamide, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid are some ingredients that can help improve skin quality.
What Skin Care Can’t Do for Skin Laxity
While topical products can address surface concerns like texture, dehydration, and fine lines, significant skin laxity requires deeper structural changes that topical products alone cannot provide. In-office treatments like fillers, injectables, and fat grafting may be necessary for more substantial results.
A combination of skin care and procedures often yields the best outcomes, as skin care can support and enhance the results of in-office treatments.
The Best Firming Skin-Care Products
Note: Topical products cannot replace lost structural support or tighten excess skin. However, products containing ingredients like retinoids, peptides, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide can help improve the appearance of firmness and support collagen production over time.