Skincare expert, Dr. Judey cautions against facial ageing and health risks linked to Ozempic use for weight loss.
Johannesburg, South Africa – May 2025
As the global demand for weight loss solutions grows, Biomedical Scientist and skincare expert Dr. Judey, founder of Biomedical Emporium, raises a red flag regarding the unintended consequences of using Ozempic and similar GLP-1 hormone injectables for aesthetic weight management purposes.
Originally developed and indicated for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is a weekly injectable medication that helps manage blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin production and regulating appetite through mimicking a naturally occurring hormone known as GLP-1. This slows digestion, promotes satiety, and has, as a side effect, contributed to significant weight loss in many patients.
However, as Dr. Judey explains, the unintended shift in usage – from a diabetes management tool to a widely promoted weight loss drug – has sparked both supply chain and safety concerns, particularly in South Africa.
“When Hollywood celebrities began endorsing Ozempic for weight loss, it created a worldwide surge in demand, leading to stock shortages for the very patients the drug was designed for – those living with Type 2 diabetes,” says Dr. Judey.
“In South Africa, this demand caused major disruptions, leaving diabetic patients without access to their medication.”
The heightened popularity also opened the door to unregulated practices. Dr. Judey warns that several unauthorised laboratories began compounding the GLP-1 active ingredient, resulting in inconsistent dosing, compromised safety, and illicit black-market sales.
“The biggest concern our regulatory body – the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) – had was the unauthorised compounding of active ingredients at incorrect concentrations. This led to patients experiencing severe side effects such as facial volume loss or ‘Ozempic face,’ with no oversight on dosage, efficacy or safety. These practices contravene our Medicines and Related Substances Act, and put public health at serious risk,” she notes.
From a dermatological perspective, Dr. Judey also emphasises the visible impact of rapid weight loss on the skin, particularly on the face.
“When individuals lose weight too quickly – especially through pharmaceutical intervention – the skin does not have adequate time to adapt. This can result in volume loss, sagging, and accelerated facial ageing. As a biomedical scientist specialising in skin health, I am increasingly seeing patients with unintended skin laxity due to aggressive weight loss methods,” she adds.
In response to the shifting demand, pharmaceutical companies are now fast-tracking clinical trials to formally reposition the drug for obesity treatment, expanding manufacturing capabilities to address the supply imbalance. However, Dr. Judey urges the public to approach such trends with caution, informed guidance, and respect for regulated medical channels.
“Medicines must always be used within the parameters of proper medical oversight. While weight loss may be a welcome benefit for some, it should never come at the cost of safety, skin health, or the well-being of patients who truly need the drug for its intended use.”
Skincare Solution to Combat Ozempic Face
One prominent side effect of Ozempic weight loss is accelerated facial ageing. Our Biomedical team have identified three products that may help combat the skin side effects of the Ozempic face. These products include a Collagen Serum, an HA (Hyaluronic acid) Contour Mask, and a Skin Biotic Supplement.
Shop the GLP1/Ozempic Face products here.
About Dr. Judey Pretorius
Dr. Judey is a distinguished Biomedical Scientist with vast expertise in wound healing, regenerative medicine, and cell therapy. Her academic accolades include a Master’s degree in Genetics and Molecular Biology and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry. As the founder of Biomedical Emporium®, she has propelled advancements in skincare by formulating innovative products that support the skin’s natural rejuvenation and repair processes.
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