How GLP-1 Medications Like Ozempic and Wegovy May Help Skin Conditions Like Psoriasis and Hidradenitis Suppurativa

How GLP-1 Medications Like Ozempic and Wegovy May Help Skin Conditions Like Psoriasis and Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy are now widely recognized for their role in weight loss. But recent research is uncovering a surprising new benefit: these medications may also help treat chronic inflammatory skin conditions, including psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).

This emerging area of research could offer new hope for patients living with both metabolic and dermatological conditions. Here’s what we know so far.

What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic the natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). They help:

  • Lower blood sugar
  • Slow gastric emptying
  • Reduce appetite
  • Promote weight loss

Drugs in this class include:

  • Ozempic (semaglutide)
  • Wegovy (semaglutide, higher-dose for weight loss)
  • Rybelsus (oral semaglutide)
  • Mounjaro (tirzepatide, which also activates GIP)

While GLP-1 medications are well known for their metabolic effects, they also seem to influence inflammatory pathways, which is where their dermatologic potential begins.

How Do GLP-1s Impact Skin Health?

GLP-1 receptors aren’t just found in the pancreas and gut—they’re also present in immune cells and skin tissues. Early studies suggest these medications may:

  • Reduce systemic inflammation
  • Modulate immune cell activity
  • Improve insulin sensitivity, which indirectly affects skin
  • Support wound healing and reduce oxidative stress

Because many skin conditions are inflammatory and immune-mediated, GLP-1s may play a helpful secondary role in calming these responses.

Psoriasis and GLP-1 Medications

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by red, scaly patches and systemic inflammation. Weight loss alone is known to improve symptoms, but recent evidence shows GLP-1 therapy may go beyond that.

In early clinical observations:

  • Patients on GLP-1s experienced visible improvements in plaque psoriasis
  • Inflammation markers improved even in the absence of significant weight loss
  • Some dermatologists are exploring GLP-1s as adjunctive therapy for patients with psoriasis and metabolic syndrome

While not approved for this indication, these results are promising, especially in patients who have obesity or diabetes alongside psoriasis.

mounjaro for skin conditions

Shop mounjaro from $559.95

Shop Now

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) and GLP-1s

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful, scarring skin condition marked by recurrent boils and abscesses, often in areas like the armpits or groin. It’s strongly linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and systemic inflammation.

Emerging research shows:

  • Patients on semaglutide or liraglutide report fewer flares and reduced pain
  • Improvements appear related to both weight loss and anti-inflammatory effects
  • GLP-1 medications may reduce inflammatory cytokines involved in HS

Given the limited treatment options for HS, this avenue of therapy could be transformative for some patients.

using glp1 medications for skin conditions

Other Skin-Related Observations

GLP-1 medications may also:

  • Support wound healing by promoting keratinocyte migration and improving blood flow
  • Reduce symptoms of atopic dermatitis in patients with obesity
  • Lower oxidative stress linked to skin aging and chronic inflammation

However, side effects such as acne or facial volume loss (“Ozempic face“) have also been reported in the media. These effects may be due more to rapid weight loss than to the medication itself.

Are GLP-1s Approved for Skin Conditions?

As of 2025, GLP-1 medications are not approved to treat skin conditions like psoriasis or HS. Any benefits seen in skin health are considered off-label and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Still, the overlap between metabolic disease and dermatologic inflammation means that GLP-1s may serve a dual purpose in some patients.

Who Might Benefit?

Patients who may see dermatologic benefits from GLP-1 therapy include those with:

  • Psoriasis and obesity or insulin resistance
  • Hidradenitis suppurativa and elevated BMI
  • Chronic inflammatory skin disease and metabolic syndrome

  • A need for both weight loss and improved glycemic control

These individuals should talk to their doctor about whether a GLP-1 could serve multiple purposes in their care plan.

 

Final Thoughts

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and support weight loss—but researchers are now uncovering exciting new roles in skin health.

While more studies are needed, early evidence suggests that these medications may reduce symptoms in conditions like psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa—especially when used in patients with overlapping metabolic risk factors.

If you’ve been prescribed a GLP-1 medication for diabetes or weight loss and have noticed improvements in your skin, you’re not alone. This field is rapidly evolving, and dermatologists and endocrinologists alike are paying attention.