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 the sagging or deflated appearance of the buttocks that some people experience after significant and rapid weight loss while taking Ozempic (semaglutide). When the body loses fat, including in the buttocks, the skin may not have enough time to adjust. This leads to a looser, less firm appearance. In some cases, the skin is not elastic enough to fit the new body shape. This can mean having extra skin that hangs down.
Several factors can contribute to the severity of "Ozempic butt," including:
- The amount of weight lost: The more weight someone loses, the more likely they are to experience sagging skin.
- The speed of weight loss: Rapid weight loss is more likely to cause sagging skin than gradual weight loss.
- How long you have been overweight: If the skin has been stretched out for many years, it can be harder for it to spring back.
- Age: Older individuals may have less skin elasticity, making them more prone to sagging skin.
- Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to having loose skin. What’s more, certain people tend to hold on to more fat in their buttocks area.
Related questions
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How to prevent Ozempic butt
It is difficult to predict whether you will get Ozempic butt from taking Ozempic. There are, however, some things you can do to prevent this from happening.
- Lose weight slowly: 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.
- Perform muscle-building exercises that target the gluteus maximus: 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.
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet: While your appetite may not be large while you are taking Ozempic, it is essential to provide your body with nutrients it needs. 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 Ozempic butt, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
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/
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Drug information
- Ozempic Information for Consumers
- Ozempic prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Ozempic (detailed)
Related support groups
- Ozempic (75 questions, 200 members)
- Diabetes, Type 2 (455 questions, 1,412 members)