How do you avoid Ozempic butt?
Key Points
- “Ozempic butt” is a term for sagging or wrinkly skin in the buttocks area after using the injectable type 2 diabetes medication Ozempic (semaglutide).
- Weight loss is a common side effect of Ozempic; however, losing weight too quickly can cause saggy skin and a flattened appearance of the buttocks.
- To prevent Ozempic butt, lose weight slowly, maintain a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Strength training can build muscle in the buttocks area and improve skin tone.
What is Ozempic butt?
"Ozempic butt" refers to sagging or deflated buttocks that some people experience after significant and rapid weight loss while taking Ozempic (semaglutide). This happens when fat loss occurs rapidly, and the skin does not have enough time to adjust, leading to a looser, less firm appearance.
What Causes Ozempic Butt?
Several factors contribute to the severity of "Ozempic butt," including:
- Amount of weight lost: The more weight someone loses, the more likely they are to experience sagging skin.
- Speed of weight loss: Rapid weight loss is more likely to cause sagging skin than gradual weight loss.
- How long you have been overweight: Skin that has been stretched for many years may have reduced elasticity.
- Age: Older individuals naturally have less skin elasticity, making them more prone to sagging skin.
- Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to looser skin or fat distribution in their buttocks.
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How to Prevent Ozempic Butt
While it’s difficult to predict if you will experience this effect, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:
- Lose weight gradually: If you are looking to lose weight, try to do it gradually if you can. Do not try extreme diets, which can cause you to lose weight too quickly. Slow weight loss can help give your skin time to adjust to your changing body shape.
- Build muscle in the buttocks: Incorporate step-up exercises, squats, and lunges in your regular exercise routine.
- Keep your skin moisturized: To help your skin maintain elasticity and firmness, regularly moisturize it with a cream or lotion that contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.
- Eat a balanced diet: Even with reduced appetite from Ozempic, aim to consume a nutrient-dense diet. Eat foods that are rich in protein and nutrients that support skin health, such as vitamins C, E, and collagen.
If you’re concerned about changes in body composition while taking Ozempic, consult your healthcare provider. They can offer personalized guidance on weight loss strategies, exercise routines, and skin health to help you achieve your health goals while minimizing unwanted effects.
References
Keen, M. A., et. al. (2016). Vitamin E in dermatology. In: Indian Dermatology Online Journal. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4976416/
Ashtray-Larky, D., et. al. (2017). Rapid Weight Loss vs. Slow Weight Loss: Which is More Effective on Body Composition and Metabolic Risk Factors? In: International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5702468/
Humphrey, C. D., et. al. (2023). Implications of Ozempic and Other Semaglutide Medications for Facial Plastic Surgeons. In: Facial Plastic Surgery. Available from: https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/a-2148-6321
Neto, W. K., et. al. (2020). Gluteus Maximus Activation during Common Strength and Hypertrophy Exercises: A Systematic Review. In: Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7039033/
Papakonstantinou, E., et. al. (2012). Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. In: Dermato Endocrinology. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
Read next
How do Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Zepbound compare for weight loss?
Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy and Zepbound can all lead to long-term weight loss, but only Wegovy and Zepbound are approved by the FDA for this use. In studies, Zepbound has led to a 21% weight loss in adults using the highest dose, while Wegovy has led to about a 15% weight loss. Continue reading
How long does it take for Ozempic to work?
Your blood glucose (sugar) levels should start to fully decline within the first week after you start using Ozempic (semaglutide) at your regular dose. However, the full effect can take 8 weeks or longer, as this is a long-acting medication that is injected only once per week. Continue reading
Wegovy vs Ozempic: Which is Right for You?
Both Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide, but Wegovy is prescribed for long-term weight management while Ozempic is used to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and help protect kidney function. They both lower the risk for heart-related complications, but they differ in other approved uses, doses, target populations and costs. Continue reading
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Drug information
- Ozempic Information for Consumers
- Ozempic prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Ozempic (detailed)
- Ozempic user reviews (1,544)
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