L'Oréall Tells Women To Pair Cosmetic Products With Weight Loss Drugs To Counteract 'Sagging Skin'
Cosmetics giant L'Oréal is adapting its product lineup to address skin changes linked to weight-loss injections.
The company said the growing use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs is affecting beauty and skincare spending, prompting it to develop products aimed at addressing some effects of rapid weight loss.
Speaking to investors, chief executive Nicolas Hieronimus described the rise of these drugs as 'a very important phenomenon for us.'
Skincare Brands Adapt Products for Weight-Loss Drug Users
He told investors that weight-loss injections are 'having an impact on beauty consumption and skin care consumption in particular.'
Despite broader economic pressures, L'Oréal reported 7.7% growth in third-quarter sales on an adjusted like-for-like basis. L'Oréal noted that specialised lines from Kiehl's and SkinCeuticals now directly target skin changes caused by rapid weight loss.
Hieronimus stated that these formulas 'work alongside and complement GLP-1 and its side-effects on skin sagging.'
To strengthen its medical presence, the beauty giant also purchased a 20 percent stake in dermatology firm Galderma. Galderma manufactures clinical aesthetic treatments, including the collagen stimulator Sculptra and the dermal filler Restylane.
Galderma has conducted a clinical trial examining aesthetic treatments for patients experiencing facial volume loss after medication-driven weight loss, while L'Oréal is developing skincare products aimed at addressing concerns such as sagging skin. A Galderma survey found that most patients using weight-loss injections noticed visible changes in their facial features.
Why Rapid Weight Loss Causes 'Ozempic Face'
Drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro cause weight loss by mimicking hormones that suppress appetite and quiet food cravings. However, medical specialists clarify that sagging facial tissue stems from rapid fat reduction rather than the drugs themselves.
Endocrinologist Dr. Keren Zhou explained via Cleveland Clinic that sudden fat loss removes the volume that naturally supports skin. 'You can also lose weight from areas of your body where fat provides volume and support,' Dr. Zhou explained.
Losing subcutaneous facial fat can leave cheeks hollow, making existing wrinkles and lines much more noticeable. 'It's an effect of rapid weight loss, not necessarily a side effect of a GLP-1 medication,' Dr. Zhou added.
Similar changes frequently affect the breasts, hips, and buttocks, where swift fat and muscle loss creates loose contours. Dr. Zhou warned that rapid muscle loss can also impair physical performance and increase the risk of sarcopenia.
Clinical Skin Risks and Medical Guidance
Dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology Association urge patients starting GLP-1 drugs to watch for changes across their skin, hair, and nails.
'Understanding these risks and benefits can help you make a more informed choice,' noted dermatologist Dr. Steven Daveluy. Dr. Daveluy observed that while conditions like psoriasis may improve, facial sagging and hair loss can noticeably worsen.
Reported side effects include injection site rashes, excessive sweating, brittle nails, and dry skin from reduced fluid intake. Patients with significant skin laxity or 'loose skin' can also develop painful rashes where excess folds continually rub together.
Dr. Lindsey Bordone emphasised that overall health gains from weight-loss therapies typically outweigh cosmetic side effects. 'The health improvements seen when these medications are used in the right patients are astounding,' Dr. Bordone stated.
Research Links GLP-1 Drugs to Common Skin and Hair Issues
A September 2026 review found that dermatological adverse events accounted for about 6% of reports involving GLP-1 receptor agonists in the US Food and Drug Administration's adverse-event database.
Among the reported dermatological adverse events, rash accounted for 21.8%, itching for 18.0% and hair loss for 14.0%. The researchers also identified reporting signals for hair loss associated with semaglutide and tirzepatide, as well as reports of rare but serious reactions such as angioedema.
To protect skin elasticity and preserve muscle mass, doctors advise gradual dose increases, consistent strength training, and eating nutrient-rich whole foods.