Do beauty drips really brighten skin? What research on glutathione and vitamin C tells us

In a trial, more people felt their skin brightened with glutathione drips than with a placebo drip[1]. However, the effect is temporary, fading by 6 months, and side effects have been reported[1]. High-dose vitamin C drips can cause anemia depending on your constitution, and checking beforehand is important[2].

Does glutathione drip brighten skin?

More people felt their skin brightened than with a placebo drip. In a trial where glutathione 1200 mg was dripped twice weekly for 6 weeks, 37.5% reported brighter skin, compared to 18.7% with placebo[1].

However, this effect did not last long and faded by 6 months[1]. Even looking at the research overall, it is noted that the number of subjects was small, the methods of evaluation varied, and the follow-up period was short[3]. Another issue is that vitamin C is often added at the same time, making it difficult to determine the effect of glutathione alone[3].

Does drip work better than oral or topical?

It has not been confirmed that drips brighten skin more than oral or topical medications[1]. With oral and topical medications, side effects were mild and typically resolved naturally[1].

While it may seem that 'drips work faster and better,' the current research does not support this claim. If you are concerned about uneven skin tone or spots, it is recommended to compare this with other treatments before choosing

What are the side effects of glutathione drip?

Rare but serious side effects have been reported with glutathione drips. In the trial mentioned above, 32% of subjects experienced side effects, including abnormal liver function and one case of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)[1].

The Philippine Food and Drug Administration has issued cautions about glutathione drips due to the risk of liver damage and severe allergic reactions[1]. There is also a report of a 33-year-old woman who developed a serious drug rash (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) with skin erosion after glutathione and vitamin drips[4].

Researchers state that glutathione drips should be limited to settings where healthcare providers can properly monitor[1]. If you decide to receive one, check beforehand whether a physician can examine you immediately if you experience any changes in your condition

Who should be cautious about high-dose vitamin C drips?

People with G6PD deficiency (a condition where the enzyme that protects red blood cells is naturally deficient) need to be especially careful. High-dose vitamin C drips have been reported to cause hemolytic anemia (anemia caused by the breakdown of red blood cells), and prior testing or avoiding the drip is recommended[2].

People with weakened kidney function or those who have had kidney stones are also more susceptible to vitamin C side effects[5]. People with diabetes who monitor their own blood sugar may see higher readings on the measurement device than the actual value after the drip[2][6].

Short-term use is generally considered safe, but the safety of long-term high-dose use is not yet well understood[5].

Does it also work for fatigue and cancer prevention?

Within the range of this review, no research was found examining whether beauty drips relieve fatigue. The effectiveness of high-dose vitamin C drips alone in suppressing cancer is also being studied, but the effect has not been seen in cancer patients[7].

What should I confirm before receiving the drip?

At consultation, ask about the following points:

Purpose: What do you hope to improve, such as skin brightness, and has this been confirmed in research?[1][3]

Constitution: Is testing for G6PD deficiency necessary?[2]

Medical history: Do you have kidney disease, kidney stones, or diabetes?[5]

Side effects: Can a physician examine you immediately if you feel unwell?[1]

Whether a beauty drip is right for you and which ingredients and doses to use cannot be decided from an article alone. At your consultation, inform your doctor of any existing medical conditions, medications you are taking, and any previous allergies, and confirm what results can be expected and how side effects will be managed.