In brief
Beauty giant L'Oreal says the surge in GLP‑1 drug usage is reshaping its product strategy. The company highlights that rapid weight loss can cause loose skin, especially around the face, prompting new formulations from brands like Skinceuticals and Kiehl's. L'Oreal has increased its stake in dermatology firm Galderma and is testing products in clinical trials aimed at GLP‑1 users concerned about sagging skin. Despite global economic challenges, the firm reported a 7.7% sales rise in its fourth quarter, underscoring resilience in the beauty sector. The shift reflects a broader trend of pharmaceuticals influencing skincare innovation.
In 2026, L'Oreal revealed that the popularity of GLP‑1 weight‑loss drugs—originally designed to treat diabetes—has begun to significantly influence consumer beauty habits.
The company’s head, Nicolas Hieronimus, said the rise in drug use is "a very important phenomenon for us" and that it has created a new market segment focused on the side‑effects of rapid weight loss, especially loose skin around the face.
L'Oreal’s brands Skinceuticals and Kiehl's have already introduced products aimed at supporting elasticity and collagen production, while the firm has increased its stake in dermatology firm Galderma to 20%. Both have conducted separate clinical trials testing skin‑tightening products on GLP‑1 users worried about sagging.
Even amid a challenging global economy, L'Oreal posted a 7.7% sales rise in the three months to September, beating analyst expectations. The shift underscores how pharmaceutical developments can reshape beauty and skincare strategies.
