A 49-year-old woman has detailed her experience with a non-surgical laser treatment that she credits with reversing signs of aging and the effects of rapid weight loss, often referred to as 'Ozempic face.' Charlotte Cripps described noticing a drawn appearance, sagging jawline, and sunken cheeks, which she attributed partly to losing nearly three stone on weight-loss drugs and the natural aging process.
While she diligently followed a skincare routine including SPF and retinol, the effects of aging and weight loss were evident. "I couldn’t help but notice that I looked drawn, with a slightly saggy jawline and sunken cheeks," Cripps wrote for the Daily Mail. "At 49 I wasn’t expecting to look 20 again."
She sought a solution that would provide a firmer, plumper, and more youthful complexion without surgery or the extensive downtime associated with traditional procedures. Dr. David Jack, a skin rejuvenation specialist, recommended the UltraClear Lift laser treatment, which he considers a leading option for combating 'Ozempic face' and general aging.
"Significant weight loss through GLP-1 use can change facial appearance quite quickly," Dr. Jack explained. "Patients on these drugs are now bothered by skin laxity, particularly around the lower face, neck, abdomen and upper arms. The skin and underlying soft tissue often can’t contract quickly enough to match the new face or body shape."
The UltraClear Lift Procedure
The UltraClear Lift utilizes a cold fractional laser, which stimulates collagen and elastin production deep within the skin. Unlike traditional CO2 laser resurfacing, which can involve significant redness and longer recovery periods, this method is designed for minimal downtime. Cripps underwent the 45-minute treatment, which involves a handheld device delivering precise laser energy to create micro-injuries that trigger the skin's natural healing response.
Prior to the procedure, she had a patch test and a numbing cream was applied. Despite a past negative experience with laser treatments, Cripps found the UltraClear Lift painless. However, immediately after the treatment, her skin was bright red and, in the following days, experienced dryness and some scabbing. She followed strict aftercare instructions, including gentle cleansing and applying a soothing balm.
"By the time I arrived at my children’s school for pick up, 45 minutes later, wearing a hoodie to disguise myself, things had escalated. I was in a shocking state, covered in dry blood, and it looked as if I’d been savaged by a pitbull or come from the set of a slasher film," she recalled.
Recovery and Results
By the third day, the redness had subsided, and her skin appeared fresher. Five months post-treatment, Cripps observed significant improvements. Her jawline appeared sharper, her skin firmer and smoother, and sagging eyelids had tightened. She noted that people who hadn't seen her in a while commented on her more youthful appearance.
"My face looks more lifted, my jawline is impressively sharper with no double chin, my skin is firmer and plumper, with a smoother texture. I’m also less jowly and my face appears rested," she stated. "The best version of me is starring back – and I look fresher with rejuvenated skin from the inside out."
Dr. Jack noted that while the treatment cannot replace surgery for severe laxity, it can provide noticeable improvements for mild to moderate cases. The full regenerative results can take up to six months to appear, with improvements continuing for up to a year, and results lasting one to five years. Maintenance treatments are recommended annually.