Have you started a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, or Saxenda® and noticed changes in your skin? If you’re experiencing new or worsening acne, you’re not imagining things (and you’re not alone).
Emerging research is exploring a link between these weight management medications and acne, particularly in women.
If you’re concerned about your skin while on these medications, here’s what the evidence tells us, and how to get the right support.
Acne and GLP-1 Medications: A New and Emerging Link
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that help regulate appetite, support weight loss, and manage blood sugar levels. Some of the most prescribed include:
- Semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®)
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®)
- Liraglutide (Saxenda®)
While the metabolic benefits are well-established, dermatological side effects, especially acne, have only recently started to surface on social media, but also in the medical literature.
Recently, a large study identified a higher rate of acne in women using GLP-1 medications compared to those who weren’t. Interestingly, the same pattern wasn’t found in men.
This finding echoed what many women had already been noticing and sharing online: increased breakouts that began shortly after starting these medications.
Could GLP-1 Medications Trigger Acne?
Let’s look at the evidence.
In one large study involving over 160,000 non-diabetic adults with obesity, researchers found that women prescribed GLP-1 medications had a higher rate of medically diagnosed acne compared to those who were not using these drugs. No significant increase in acne was observed in men.
The proposed explanation involves hormonal changes linked to GLP-1 medication use. These drugs may raise levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 is known to increase sebum (oil) production and has been associated with inflammation in the skin, both of which are factors in acne development.
Women with obesity can also have higher baseline androgen levels, which could amplify skin sensitivity to these hormonal shifts. This may help explain why the association was stronger in women than in men.
It’s important to note that while these findings show a statistical association, they do not confirm a direct cause. More research is needed to understand the mechanism fully and determine how common this side effect may be. We do know that there is lots of chatter about this on social media, however.
What Should You Do If You Notice New Breakouts After Starting A GLP-1?
Firstly, don’t stop your GLP-1 medication without speaking to your prescribing doctor! It’s possible to keep your skin in control without having to stop your GLP-1 treatment.
If you’re considering starting on GLP-1 treatment and have a history of acne, let your doctor know up front.
Speaking with a doctor who understands how to assess skin changes in the context of your full health picture is also helpful. There are many potential triggers for acne, including hormonal changes, skincare products, diet, and underlying health conditions, and many skin conditions that look like acne, but aren’t. A medical professional can help determine the likely cause/s in your individual case and discuss possible treatment options where appropriate.
And don’t forget to keep your skincare routine as simple as possible. A gentle rinse off cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen is a good starting point in caring for your skin. Complicated routines and jumping between different products can worsen acne, not improve it!
What Support For Acne Can Look Like With Qr8
Noticing breakouts and unsure what to do next? A good first step is talking to a registered doctor. They can assess your skin with your health and medication history in mind, including any hormonal or lifestyle factors that might be involved.
During your consultation, your doctor will:
- Review your skin, medical history, and all medications (including GLP-1s)
- Determine whether the acne may be related to treatment, hormones, or other factors
- Discuss possible options to support your skin
If clinically appropriate, the doctor may recommend prescription treatments along with topical actives tailored to your skin’s needs. Not everyone will need treatment, and no treatments are guaranteed. But having clarity can be a huge relief!
We offer secure, online consultations across Australia and New Zealand. You’ll speak with a registered doctor who can help you understand what’s going on with your skin, and whether treatment is right for you.
Female acne isn’t just limited
to teenage years.
Summary
A possible link between GLP-1 medications and acne in women reported on social media is being explored in current research.
Hormonal effects related to IGF-1 and androgen sensitivity may play a role.
Acne is not yet a known or confirmed side effect of GLP-1 medications, and further studies are needed.
If you experience acne while using a GLP-1 medication, consult a registered healthcare professional for assessment.
READY FOR PERSONALISED SKIN ADVICE BASED ON YOUR NEEDS?
BOOK TO EXPLORE YOUR TREATMENT OPTIONS HERE
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A SKINCARE CONSULTATION (IF TREATMENT IS CLINICALLY APPROPRIATE):
• An individualised treatment plan based on your skin condition and consultation findings
• Access to prescription treatments (e.g. tazarotene, tretinoin, spironolactone, azelaic acid) if recommended by your doctor
• A full skincare routine (including product recommendations), ongoing care and support from our clinical team, including registered nurses and qualified skin professionals
• Convenient express delivery across Australia & New Zealand
• Evidence-based approach – no unnecessary products or trends
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