ASCP Esty Talk: Episode 323 – The GLP-1 Effect on Beauty, Body, and Skin
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Host/Author: Associated Skin Care Professionals
Guests: Al Crestman & Maggie Stasik
Introduction
In Episode 323 of ASCP Esty Talk, Al Crestman and Maggie Stasik delve into the burgeoning topic of GLP-1 medications and their multifaceted impact on beauty, body, and skin. As GLP-1s like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro gain popularity for their weight loss benefits, the hosts explore not only their physiological effects but also the dermatological implications that estheticians need to be aware of.
Understanding GLP-1 Medications
What Are GLP-1s?
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) medications mimic a natural peptide hormone that promotes satiety and slows down the digestive tract. Al Crestman explains, “They encourage a feeling of fullness and slow digestion, leading to appetite suppression” (02:37).
Types of GLP-1s:
- Semaglutide: A GLP-1 receptor agonist.
- Tirzepatide: Combines GLP-1 with another mechanism for enhanced effects.
- Future Developments: Discussions are underway for a daily pill variant, moving away from the current weekly injections (04:30).
Cultural Impact and Shifting Body Ideals
From Curvy to Slim Aesthetics:
The hosts highlight a significant cultural shift influenced by the accessibility of GLP-1s. Al notes, “Body goals have been rebranded from the curvy hourglass figure back to a lean, slim silhouette” (07:10). This transition mirrors historical trends, referencing the fluctuating beauty standards over the past century.
Celebrity Influence:
Several celebrities, including Dolores Catania, Erika Jayne, Kathy Bates, and Rebel Wilson, have publicly used GLP-1s, setting new beauty standards and sparking both inspiration and anxiety among the public (07:07).
Dermatological Effects of GLP-1s
Dehydration and Dull Skin:
GLP-1 medications can lead to reduced fluid intake due to side effects like nausea, resulting in dehydrated skin. Al emphasizes, “Dehydrated skin appears tired, flaky, and more textured” (13:23).
Loose and Sagging Skin:
Rapid weight loss from GLP-1s often results in loose or crepey skin, particularly around the arms, abdomen, neck, and face. This is a natural consequence of losing fat quickly and is accompanied by impaired collagen production (15:27).
Nutrient Deficiencies:
Reduced appetite leads to lower intake of essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, zinc, and protein, which are crucial for skin health. This deficiency hampers collagen synthesis and slows wound healing, increasing skin sensitivity (14:00).
Hormonal Shifts and Acne:
Weight loss induces hormonal changes, including alterations in estrogen and dopamine levels, potentially triggering acne and rosacea. Al states, “These hormone shifts can spark a breakout” (16:00).
Skin Care Treatments and Considerations
Adjusting Treatment Plans:
Estheticians must tailor their treatments for clients on GLP-1s by:
- Hydration-Focused Products: Utilizing hyaluronic acid to combat dryness (17:36).
- Gentle Procedures: Opting for less aggressive treatments like facial retinols and peptides to support skin health without exacerbating sensitivity (19:49).
Symbiotic Relationship Between Home Care and In-Clinic Treatments:
Al underscores the importance of integrating home skincare routines with in-clinic treatments. “The symbiosis of home care and professional treatments is essential for optimal results” (15:52).
Customized Treatment Plans:
Every appointment should involve a thorough skin analysis to adjust treatments based on the client’s current skin condition and GLP-1 usage (18:01).
Home Care and Professional Collaboration
Enhancing Home Skincare Routines:
Emphasizing antioxidants and barrier-supportive products helps clients maintain skin health. Retinols and peptides can be incorporated into home regimens to address issues like stretch marks and loss of firmness (19:34).
Collaborating with Wellness Professionals:
Building a network with nutritionists, trainers, and doctors ensures holistic care for clients. Maggie highlights, “Partnering with nutritionists and trainers builds trust and keeps clients returning” (22:09).
Emotional and Psychological Considerations
Empowering and Challenging Experiences:
Rapid weight loss can boost confidence and improve emotional well-being but may also lead to anxiety and pressure to conform to new body ideals. “There’s an amazing connection between emotions and the skin” (11:26).
Redefining Post-Weight Loss Care:
The focus shifts from merely addressing loose skin to celebrating clients’ progress and redefining their relationship with their bodies through empathy, education, and effective treatments (21:00).
Conclusion
Al Crestman and Maggie Stasik conclude by emphasizing the evolving role of estheticians in addressing the dermatological effects of GLP-1 medications. They advocate for a compassionate, informed approach that combines professional treatments with robust home care and collaborative wellness practices. The hosts invite listeners to share their experiences and insights, fostering a community of support and knowledge sharing.
Notable Quotes:
- Al Crestman (02:37): “They encourage a feeling of fullness and slow digestion, leading to appetite suppression.”
- Al Crestman (07:10): “Body goals have been rebranded from the curvy hourglass figure back to a lean, slim silhouette.”
- Al Crestman (15:52): “The symbiosis of home care and professional treatments is essential for optimal results.”
- Maggie Stasik (22:09): “Partnering with nutritionists and trainers builds trust and keeps clients returning.”
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive Understanding of GLP-1s: Estheticians must grasp the mechanisms and types of GLP-1 medications to effectively address their clients' needs.
- Awareness of Skin Side Effects: Dehydration, dullness, loose skin, and hormonal shifts are crucial dermatological concerns linked to GLP-1 use.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Tailoring skincare treatments to accommodate the physiological changes induced by GLP-1s ensures better client outcomes.
- Integration of Home Care and Professional Services: Encouraging robust home skincare routines alongside in-clinic treatments fosters holistic skin health.
- Collaborative Wellness Approach: Building networks with other wellness professionals enhances the support system for clients undergoing significant body changes.
Engage with Us
We invite our listeners to share their thoughts and experiences regarding the impact of GLP-1s on skin health. Connect with us via Instagram, Facebook, or email at email@getconnectedscpskincare.com. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes of ASCP Esty Talk.
Timestamp Guide:
- 02:37 – Explanation of GLP-1 mechanisms
- 04:30 – Differences between semaglutide and tirzepatide
- 07:10 – Shift in body ideals influenced by GLP-1s
- 13:23 – Effects of dehydration on skin
- 15:27 – Impact of nutrient deficiencies on skin health
- 17:36 – Importance of hyaluronic acid for hydration
- 19:34 – Incorporating retinols into body care
- 22:09 – Collaboration with wellness professionals
Disclaimer: This summary is based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the key discussions and insights shared by the hosts in Episode 323 of ASCP Esty Talk.