In brief
L'Oréal said that the growing use of GLP‑1 weight‑loss medications is impacting skin‑care and beauty sales, as consumers experience loose skin after rapid weight loss. The company’s senior executive highlighted the issue on an investor call, noting the rise of drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro as a "very important phenomenon" for the industry. L'Oréal is responding by tailoring products from SkinCeuticals, Kiehl's and its recent stake in Galderma to support skin firmness and combat sagging associated with quick weight loss. Despite the challenges, L'Oréal reported a 7.7% sales growth in the quarter to September, exceeding expectations.
L'Oréal says the rise of weight‑loss drugs is affecting beauty and skin‑care sales.
The head of the beauty group, Nicolas Hieronimus, told an investor call that the growing use of GLP‑1s—drugs originally developed for diabetes that now also cause significant weight loss—has created a notable shift in consumer behaviour. He described the trend as a very important phenomenon for the sector and noted its impact on skin‑care consumption in particular.
Despite headwinds, L'Oréal posted 7.7% sales growth in the three months to September, surpassing analyst forecasts. The conglomerate owns brands such as Maybelline and La Roche‑Posay, and has responded to the shift by designing products to target side‑effects of rapid weight loss.
Rapid weight loss can, for some people, lead to loose skin—especially around the face—though the effect is not caused directly by GLP‑1 drugs. Hieronimus highlighted that L'Oréal’s SkinCeuticals, Kiehl's, and its recent 20% stake in dermatology firm Galderma each offer items specifically aimed at countering sagging and other changes associated with quick weight loss.
Both the beauty house and Galderma have been conducting clinical trials with GLP‑1 users who are concerned about loose skin. Galderma produces aesthetic products such as Sculptra, an injectable that promotes collagen production, and Restylane, a dermal filler. Last year, the company released a report on the rise in GLP‑1 use and its impact on facial appearance, noting that a majority of users observed changes after treatment.
For more on how weight‑loss injections are altering the fight against obesity, see How weight loss jabs have changed the battle with obesity.
