Featured in Parade: Dermatologists Warn: Stop Using Harsh Retinols if You Are on a GLP-1 (Do This Instead)
As featured in Parade, by Martha Sorren, October 12, 2026
If you're taking a GLP-1 medication, your skincare routine may need some adjusting too. Dr. Morgana Colombo, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of Reston and founder of Vidaderma, was one of the dermatologists Parade consulted on how these medications affect the skin and why harsh retinols may need to be dialed back.
How GLP-1 medications affect your skin
Dr. Colombo explained that GLP-1s can affect collagen production and worsen skin quality. The changes go beyond the deflation that comes with weight loss:
"Your skin quality suffers as a direct consequence on these drugs." Dr. Morgana Colombo, via Parade
That's why she recommends adjusting your skincare routine to address these specific changes.
Nutrition plays a role too. Dr. Colombo noted that eating significantly less can leave people short on the protein, vitamins, and minerals, like vitamin C, that the body needs to build new collagen.
Why retinol can be tricky on a GLP-1
The dermatologists in the feature agreed that you may need to be cautious with harsh retinols while on a GLP-1. Dr. Colombo pointed out that this is especially true for women in perimenopause and menopause, who are often already dealing with drier, more sensitive skin because of hormonal changes.
What to use instead of retinol
If your skin can't get used to any retinoid, Dr. Colombo suggests turning to other ingredients that promote collagen, including peptides like Matrixyl 3000 and antioxidants like vitamin C.
She also recommends her own Phytoestro Age Eraser for its collagen-supporting actives, designed to boost skin hydration, brightness, and firmness.
Shop the Phytoestro Age Eraser
GLP-1s and your skin: support, not discouragement
Dr. Colombo emphasized that GLP-1 medications can offer tremendous health benefits for the right patients. As she sees it, a dermatologist's job isn't to discourage those benefits. It's to help patients protect the skin barrier, preserve skin quality, and address changes in volume and laxity as their bodies change.
When to see a dermatologist
You don't need to wait until you reach your goal weight. Dr. Colombo recommends seeing a board-certified dermatologist early if you notice significant facial hollowing, rapidly increasing laxity, or major changes in skin quality. Professional options she mentioned include collagen stimulation, lasers, injectables, fillers, and surgical options for more advanced cases.
Book an appointment with Dr. Colombo
More from Dr. Colombo on GLP-1 skin
For a full routine built around these changes, see Dr. Colombo's GLP-1 Skincare Guide. And for her take on volume loss and filler, read her guide to fixing Ozempic face, also as featured in Parade.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use retinol while taking a GLP-1?
The dermatologists Parade consulted recommend caution with harsh retinols, especially if your skin has become drier or more sensitive. Dr. Colombo notes this is particularly important for women in perimenopause and menopause.
What can I use instead of retinol?
If your skin can't tolerate a retinoid, Dr. Colombo suggests other collagen-promoting ingredients, such as peptides like Matrixyl 3000 and antioxidants like vitamin C.
Do GLP-1 medications affect collagen?
According to Dr. Colombo, GLP-1s can affect collagen production and worsen skin quality, and eating less can also leave you short on nutrients the body needs to build collagen.
When should I see a dermatologist about skin changes on a GLP-1?
Early. Dr. Colombo recommends a visit if you notice significant facial hollowing, rapidly increasing laxity, or major changes in skin quality.
