The Truth About Vitamin C & Glutathione Drips, According to an Esthetician

IV infusions of antioxidants like Vitamin C and Glutathione have quietly become the new beauty obsession not just in Lagos, but across celebrity circles everywhere from Los Angeles to London.

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Odunmorayo Ayobami

It feels like every time I scroll through Instagram these days, there’s yet another influencer hooked up to an IV drip, casually captioning it “Glow-up loading…” usually with #VitaminCDrip or #GlutathioneInfusion casually tagged underneath.

IV infusions of antioxidants like Vitamin C and Glutathione have quietly become the new beauty obsession not just in Lagos, but across celebrity circles everywhere from Los Angeles to London. These IV infusions promise heaven and earth for brighter, clearer skin and an inside-out glow. They also claim to give faster and more rapid results than any serum or supplement ever could.

But are they really the future of skin brightening or just another expensive beauty and wellness flex with questionable science behind it?

To get clarity, I spoke to Melissa, a formally trained Lagos-based skincare therapist and esthetician who has not only studied this trend deeply but has also tried it herself. And trust me, her insights are pure gold.

First off, what exactly are Vitamin C and Glutathione IV infusions?

“Vitamin C and glutathione are powerful antioxidants that play essential roles in skin health and overall wellness,” Melissa explains. “IV infusions of these antioxidants are marketed as a quick and effective way to brighten skin, boost immunity, and detoxify the body. The idea is that by bypassing the digestive system (i.e the gastrointestinal tract), and delivering these compounds directly into the bloodstream, your body can absorb them more efficiently.”

But here’s where it gets interesting. Compared to oral supplements or topical skincare that have to work through digestion or the skin barrier, IV drips provide these nutrients directly into your bloodstream, theoretically allowing your body to absorb them more efficiently.

Antioxidants are your body’s natural defense system against oxidative stress, which is damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules produced naturally by your body from metabolism, stress, pollution, UV exposure, and toxins. When free radicals accumulate, they cause oxidative damage to your skin, cells, and organs, accelerating aging, pigmentation, inflammation, and disease.

She further explains, “Antioxidants like vitamin C and glutathione neutralise these harmful free radicals, preventing cellular damage and keeping your body functioning optimally. They protect skin from aging, dullness, support collagen production for firm, youthful skin, reduce inflammation and hyperpigmentation, boost immune function, support detoxification and liver health, improve cellular repair and regeneration.”

Vitamin C and Glutathione drips have gained popularity for their potential health benefits. Here's a balanced look:

# Vitamin C Drip

1. *Antioxidant properties*: Vitamin C helps protect cells from oxidative stress.

2. *Immune system support*: Vitamin C may boost immune function and reduce severity of colds and flu.

3. *Collagen production*: Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, which can improve skin health.

# Glutathione Drip

1. *Antioxidant properties*: Glutathione helps protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.

2. *Detoxification*: Glutathione supports liver function and detoxification processes.

3. *Skin lightening*: Some claim Glutathione drips can lighten skin, although evidence is limited.

# Potential Benefits

1. *Improved skin health*: Vitamin C and Glutathione may reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

2. *Enhanced immune function*: Vitamin C's immune-boosting properties may help reduce illness frequency.

3. *Increased energy*: Some report improved energy levels due to reduced oxidative stress.

# Considerations

1. *Scientific evidence*: More research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of Vitamin C and Glutathione drips for various health benefits.

2. *Safety*: Consult a healthcare professional before starting any IV therapy, especially if you have underlying medical conditions.

3. *Quality and regulation*: Ensure you're receiving treatment from a reputable provider with proper quality control.

If you're considering Vitamin C and Glutathione drips, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss potential benefits and risks.