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A comprehensive approach to dermatocosmetological care of patients with body weight reduction during incretins therapy: From age-related characteristics of the structure of the subtlets to annual correction protocol

https://doi.org/10.21518/ms2026-091

Abstract

Introduction. In Russia, the proportion of the population with excessive weight reaches 60–62%, with class 1–3 obesity diagnosed in 20–22%.
Aim. To develop and substantiate a comprehensive protocol of dermatological support for obese patients on the background of incretin therapy, aimed at preventing and correcting undesirable skin and soft tissue changes associated with rapid weight loss.
Materials and methods. The analysis of modern literature data on the pathophysiological mechanisms of the effect of obesity on skin, muscle and bone tissue, as well as on the systemic effects of incretin drugs (GLP-1 receptor agonists and the double agonist GIP/GLP-1 tirzepatide) is carried out. Morphofunctional features of the skin and subcutaneous fat in various age and gender groups, changes in obesity and in the process of rapid weight loss, regardless of the method of body weight reduction, are considered. Based on the analysis of the evidence base and clinical experience, a step-by-step algorithm for patient management has been developed.
Results. It has been established that obesity has a multifactorial negative effect on the skin: adipokine imbalance, chronic systemic inflammation (increased TNF-α, IL-6), suppression of type I collagen synthesis, impaired microcirculation, vitamin D deficiency. Rapid weight loss exacerbates these changes, leading to gravitational ptosis, facial lipoatrophy, deepening of nasolabial and mental folds, reduction of turgor, sagging skin (the phenomenon of “Ozempic face”). An annual protocol of dermatological support is proposed.
Conclusion. The proposed protocol, based on the principles of phasing, proactivity, and an integrated and personalized approach, minimizes the undesirable aesthetic effects of rapid weight loss. Effective patient management requires interdisciplinary collaboration between an endocrinologist, a nutritionist, and a cosmetologist.

About the Authors

E. V. Svechnikova
Russian Biotechnological University; Polyclinic No. 1 of the Administrative Department of the Russian Federation
Russian Federation

Elena V. Svechnikova, Dr. Sci. (Med.), Professor, Professor of the Department of Skin and Venereal Diseases; Head of the Department of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology 

11, Volokolamskoe Shosse, Moscow, 125080;
26/28, Sivtsev Vrazhek Lane, Moscow, 119002



S. E. Zhufina
Flow Center MSK-Leninsky (Fomin Clinic)
Russian Federation

Svetlana E. Zhufina, Dermatovenereologist 

107, Bldg. 1, Leninsky Ave., Moscow, 119421



M. A. Morzhanaeva
BTL Russia
Russian Federation

Maria A. Morzhanaeva, Cand. Sci. (Med.), Cosmetologist, Expert in the Development of the Aesthetic Field 

35, Bldg. 2, Leningradsky Ave., Moscow, 125284



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For citations:


Svechnikova EV, Zhufina SE, Morzhanaeva MA. A comprehensive approach to dermatocosmetological care of patients with body weight reduction during incretins therapy: From age-related characteristics of the structure of the subtlets to annual correction protocol. Meditsinskiy sovet = Medical Council. 2026;(2):160-168. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.21518/ms2026-091

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ISSN 2079-701X (Print)
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