LOSE WEIGHT WITH MEDICAL SUPPORT — BUILT FOR MEN
- Your personalised programme is built around medical care, not willpower.
- No generic diets. No guesswork.
- Just science-backed results and expert support.
Find out if you’re eligible
Many patients starting Ozempic (semaglutide) for type 2 diabetes wonder whether this GLP-1 receptor agonist medication might affect their skin, particularly whether Ozempic causes acne. Whilst acne is not listed as a recognised side effect in the UK Summary of Product Characteristics, some individuals report skin changes during treatment. Understanding the relationship between Ozempic and skin health, the potential mechanisms behind any changes, and how to maintain good skincare practices during diabetes treatment can help patients manage their concerns effectively. This article examines the evidence, explores possible explanations for skin changes, and provides practical guidance on when to seek medical advice.
Quick Answer: Acne is not listed as a recognised side effect of Ozempic in UK prescribing information, though some patients report skin changes during treatment.
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a prescription medicine licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
The medication is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, typically into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Treatment usually begins with a 0.25 mg weekly dose for 4 weeks (for tolerability), then increases to 0.5 mg weekly, with a maintenance dose of 0.5-1 mg weekly as determined by your healthcare professional. Ozempic works through several complementary mechanisms: it stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas when blood glucose levels are elevated, suppresses the release of glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar), slows gastric emptying to reduce post-meal glucose spikes, and acts on appetite centres in the brain to promote satiety. These combined effects help improve glycaemic control and often result in weight loss as a secondary benefit.
In the UK, Ozempic is prescribed according to NICE guidance (NG28) for type 2 diabetes management, typically when triple therapy with oral medications is not effective or not tolerated, or when a drug promoting weight loss would be beneficial. It is important to note that while Ozempic may cause weight loss, it is not licensed for weight management in the UK (Wegovy is the semaglutide brand licensed for weight management). Ozempic is not indicated for patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
The MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority) continues to monitor the safety profile of semaglutide, including any emerging adverse effects reported by patients and healthcare professionals.
As with any medication, Ozempic can cause side effects, and patients may experience various reactions as their body adjusts to treatment. Understanding the medication's mechanism of action helps contextualise why certain effects, including potential skin changes, might occur during therapy.
Concerns about whether Ozempic causes acne have emerged among patients and healthcare professionals, though the relationship between semaglutide and acne is not straightforward. According to the official UK Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), acne is not listed as a common or recognised adverse effect of Ozempic. However, this does not mean that skin changes cannot occur during treatment, and there are several potential explanations for why some patients may notice alterations in their skin condition.
Metabolic and hormonal shifts associated with significant weight loss may indirectly affect skin health. When patients lose substantial weight—a common occurrence with GLP-1 receptor agonists—this can trigger changes in hormone levels, including alterations in insulin sensitivity, sex hormones, and inflammatory markers. These metabolic adjustments may, in some individuals, influence sebum production or skin inflammation, potentially affecting acne-prone skin. However, there is no official link established between Ozempic itself and acne development.
Dietary changes often accompany Ozempic treatment, as the medication reduces appetite and alters food preferences. Patients may modify their eating patterns, which could theoretically impact skin health if nutritional balance is affected. While Ozempic does slow gastric emptying, there is limited clinical evidence that this leads to nutrient malabsorption or skin conditions.
It is also worth considering that coincidental timing may explain some reported skin changes. Acne can fluctuate due to numerous factors including stress, hormonal cycles, skincare products, environmental conditions, and other medications. When starting a new treatment like Ozempic, patients may attribute any concurrent skin changes to the medication, even when no causal relationship exists.
The UK SmPC does list several recognised cutaneous adverse reactions including rash, pruritus (itching), urticaria (hives), and injection site reactions. These are different from acne but represent genuine skin-related side effects. Injection site reactions may include redness, itching, or swelling at the injection site. These localised reactions should not be confused with acne, though they represent genuine skin responses to the medication.
LOSE WEIGHT WITH MEDICAL SUPPORT — BUILT FOR MEN
Find out if you’re eligible
Maintaining good skin health during Ozempic treatment involves a combination of general skincare practices and awareness of factors that may influence skin condition. Even though there is no established causal link between Ozempic and acne, patients concerned about their skin can take several practical steps to support skin health throughout their treatment journey.
Establish a consistent skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing twice daily with a pH-balanced, non-comedogenic cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing or over-washing, which can strip the skin's natural protective barrier and potentially worsen inflammation. For those with acne-prone skin, consider using products containing evidence-based ingredients such as:
Salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid that helps unclog pores)
Niacinamide (vitamin B3, which has anti-inflammatory properties)
Benzoyl peroxide (an antimicrobial agent for mild to moderate acne)
Non-comedogenic moisturisers to maintain skin hydration without blocking pores
If you are pregnant or have sensitive skin, consult your healthcare professional before starting new topical treatments.
Nutritional considerations are particularly important during Ozempic treatment. Ensure adequate intake of:
Protein to support skin repair and maintenance
Essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) for skin barrier function
Vitamins A, C, and E with antioxidant properties
Zinc which plays a role in skin health and wound healing
Adequate hydration throughout the day
If appetite suppression makes meeting nutritional needs challenging, consider consulting a registered dietitian for personalised guidance.
Injection site care is essential to prevent localised skin reactions. Rotate injection sites systematically, avoid injecting into areas with existing skin problems, and ensure the skin is clean and dry before injection. According to the UK Patient Information Leaflet, Ozempic can be injected directly from the refrigerator, but some patients find allowing it to reach room temperature (while still in the pen cap) improves comfort. If persistent injection site reactions occur, discuss alternative injection techniques or sites with your diabetes specialist nurse or GP.
Lifestyle factors that support overall skin health include managing stress through relaxation techniques, ensuring adequate sleep (7-9 hours for most adults), avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. Regular physical activity, as appropriate for your health status, can improve circulation and support skin health, though always follow your healthcare team's advice regarding exercise during diabetes treatment.
For more information on managing acne, the NHS website and NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries provide evidence-based guidance on self-care approaches and when to seek further help.
Whilst most skin changes during Ozempic treatment are likely to be mild and manageable, certain situations warrant prompt medical attention. Understanding when to contact your GP or diabetes care team ensures that any significant reactions are appropriately assessed and managed.
Seek urgent medical advice if you experience:
Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis): difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, severe rash, or feeling faint—these require immediate emergency care (call 999). Stop using Ozempic and seek emergency help immediately if you suspect a severe allergic reaction.
Widespread rash with blistering, peeling skin, or involvement of mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, genitals)
Signs of infection in skin lesions: increasing pain, warmth, spreading redness, pus formation, or fever
Severe injection site reactions that worsen over time, spread beyond the injection area, or are accompanied by systemic symptoms
For urgent but non-emergency concerns, contact NHS 111 for advice.
Contact your GP or diabetes care team within a few days if:
You develop new or worsening acne that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments within 4-6 weeks
Skin changes are causing significant distress or affecting your quality of life
You notice unusual skin changes such as persistent discolouration, new lumps, or changes in existing moles
Injection site reactions persist beyond a few days or occur repeatedly at different sites
Your healthcare professional can assess whether skin changes are related to Ozempic, require specific treatment, or might indicate another underlying condition. They may consider:
Reviewing your medication regimen to identify potential contributing factors
Referring to dermatology if specialised assessment or treatment is needed
Adjusting diabetes management if necessary, though discontinuing Ozempic solely for mild skin changes would typically not be recommended without exploring other options first
It is important to continue taking Ozempic as prescribed unless specifically advised otherwise by your healthcare team. Do not stop the medication without medical guidance, as this could affect your diabetes control. Keep a record of any skin changes, including photographs if possible, to help your healthcare professional assess the situation accurately. Remember that effective diabetes management remains the primary goal of Ozempic treatment, and most skin concerns can be addressed whilst continuing therapy.
If you suspect an adverse reaction to Ozempic, you or your healthcare professional can report it through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme (yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk), which helps monitor medication safety in the UK.
No, acne is not listed as a recognised side effect in the UK Summary of Product Characteristics for Ozempic. However, some patients may experience skin changes during treatment due to metabolic shifts, weight loss, or other factors.
Recognised skin-related side effects of Ozempic include injection site reactions (redness, itching, swelling), rash, pruritus (itching), and urticaria (hives). These differ from acne and should be reported to your healthcare professional if persistent or severe.
Seek urgent medical attention for severe allergic reactions, widespread rash with blistering, or signs of infection. Contact your GP within a few days if you develop new or worsening acne that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments, or if skin changes cause significant distress.
All medical content on this blog is created based on reputable, evidence-based sources and reviewed regularly for accuracy and relevance. While we strive to keep content up to date with the latest research and clinical guidelines, it is intended for general informational purposes only.
DisclaimerThis content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any medical questions or concerns. Use of the information is at your own risk, and we are not responsible for any consequences resulting from its use.
