Is Your GLP-1 Medication Causing Breakouts? The Truth About Acne, Styes, and Cold Sores

I Knew My GLP-1 Was Working When I Found Myself Googling “Adult Acne Remedies”

– anonymous GLP-1 User

I Found Myself Googling “Adult Acne Remedies”

A few months into my GLP-1 journey, I was feeling pretty good. My energy up, weight down, and my pants no longer threatening to cut off circulation. Just as I was getting comfortable with my progress, the universe threw me a curveball. One morning, I woke up, shuffled to the bathroom, and nearly jumped out of my skin.

There, staring back at me, was a giant cystic pimple right in the middle of my forehead. A beacon. A lighthouse for lost sailors. The kind of pimple that could have had its own zip code. And to make matters worse, my eyelid was swollen from what I later learned was a stye. Fantastic.

There currently is not a widely recognized or direct link between GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro or Zepbound and cystic acne, styes or other skin conditions, but there are some possible indirect connections. Is there a link between GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro or Zepbound and these delightful skin surprises?

Why GLP-1 Meds Might Affect Your Skin

GLP-1 medications help with weight loss, however rapid fat loss can really cause disruption with your hormones, increasing oil production and leading to acne. If you are eating less, you might not be getting enough skin-loving nutrients like zinc, vitamin A, and omega-3s. We know these meds slow digestion, which can also disrupt gut bacteria, and that plays a huge role in skin health. Add in potential stress, sleep disturbances, and changes in skin hydration, and you may have the perfect recipe for breakouts or styes.

Keeping Your Skin Happy While on GLP-1s

• Hydrate like it’s your full-time job. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day and consider adding electrolytes.
• Boost key nutrients. Make sure you’re getting enough zinc, vitamin A, omega-3s, and biotin for optimal skin health.
• Support gut health. Take probiotics, eat fiber-rich foods, and limit processed sugars to maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
• Stick to a gentle skincare routine. Use non-comedogenic products, avoid over-exfoliating, and cleanse your face morning and night. A favorite
• Keep stress in check. Try meditation, deep breathing, or even just a daily walk to lower cortisol levels.
• Prioritize sleep. Your skin heals while you sleep, so aim for 7-9 hours a night.
• Limit dairy and high-glycemic foods. Some people find these contribute to breakouts, so monitor how your skin reacts.

Could GLP-1s Trigger Cold Sores or even Shingles?

Some users report an uptick in cold sores. While there’s no official link, immune system stress from rapid weight loss, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies could make it easier for dormant viruses like HSV-1 or shingles to activate. or reactivate. Stress and poor sleep can also lower immune defenses, making outbreaks more likely. Check with your medical provider if you are eligible for the shingles vaccine or other viral treatments.

Preventing Cold Sores While on GLP-1s

• Stay hydrated. Dry lips can crack, making you more susceptible to outbreaks.
• Use a hydrating lip balm with SPF. Sun exposure can trigger cold sores, so keep your lips protected.
• Take immune supporting supplements. L-lysine, vitamin C, and zinc can help prevent flare ups.
• Manage stress. Yoga, deep breathing, or even laughing at a funny show can lower your risk.
• Eat enough protein. Lysine-rich foods like chicken, fish, and dairy can help suppress viral activity.

Final Thoughts

There’s no widely recognized link between GLP-1 meds and acne, styes, or cold sores, but the indirect connections make sense. More research is always being done so we will be watching for new updates constantly. Remember, while GLP-1 medications have been around a while, they are still somewhat new to understanding some additional after effects. If your skin is suddenly acting like it is auditioning for a teen drama, you are not alone. Since we are getting skinnier, remember, if someone mistakes you for a teenager, just take the compliment as a win for today.

Have you noticed any changes in your skin since starting GLP-1s? Let’s chat in the comments!