From the Research
Intravenous (IV) glutathione is not recommended for skin lightening due to the lack of efficacy and potential side effects, as evidenced by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The use of IV glutathione for skin lightening has been a topic of debate, with some studies suggesting its potential benefits, but the majority of the evidence pointing to its ineffectiveness and risks.
- The study published in the International Journal of Dermatology in 2024 1 found that IV glutathione was not effective in reducing melanin index and had a high risk of adverse events.
- Other studies, such as those published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2018 2 and the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology in 2016 3, also raised concerns about the safety and efficacy of IV glutathione for skin lightening.
- The potential side effects of IV glutathione include kidney and liver damage, thyroid dysfunction, severe abdominal pain, and rare but serious reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, as well as risks associated with IV administration, such as infection, air embolism, and blood clots.
- In contrast, topical treatments containing hydroquinone, retinoids, or vitamin C, along with proper sun protection, have better established safety and efficacy profiles for addressing hyperpigmentation concerns, and are recommended as evidence-based approaches under dermatologist supervision.
- The lack of long-term safety data and the potential for increased risk of sun-induced skin cancers in previously protected individuals further support the recommendation against using IV glutathione for skin lightening 4.