Beauty infusions: What is the difference between vitamin C and Glutathione (Platinum) infusions? Evidence and precautions by type

Beauty infusions vary in what is known and what precautions are necessary depending on the type. Vitamin C infusions are generally considered to suit the body well, but as the dose increases, attention to the kidneys and blood becomes necessary[1]. Glutathione (Platinum) infusions have a short-lived skin-brightening effect and adverse reactions have been reported[2]. For both, whether you can receive them depends on your constitution and pre-existing conditions.

What is the difference between infusions and oral supplements?

The advantage of infusions is that nutrients can be delivered directly into the blood without passing through the stomach and intestines[3]. You can achieve much higher concentrations in the bloodstream than by taking supplements orally[3].

Clear benefit is shown in quickly replenishing vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin C in people who are deficient in these nutrients[3]. On the other hand, infusions for energy and skin health in otherwise healthy people are said to have limited evidence of effectiveness[3]. People report feeling "refreshed" immediately after receiving an infusion, but it is not known whether this effect persists[3].

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

Vitamin C infusions are generally considered to suit the body well[1]. However, the higher the dose and the more frequently administered in a short period, the more likely adverse effects become[1].

Reported adverse effects include kidney stones (crystal accumulation in the kidneys), hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), and hypernatremia (excess sodium in the blood)[1]. People with severe kidney disease, G6PD deficiency (an inborn condition where red blood cells break down easily), and those with kidney stones are among the main examples where high-dose infusions should be avoided[1].

People with hemochromatosis (a disease where iron accumulates in the body), thalassemia, and sickle cell disease should also not receive vitamin C supplementation[4][5]. In people with diabetes, a simple fingerstick blood glucose meter may show readings higher than actual values after receiving an infusion[6][5].

Can Glutathione (Platinum) infusions brighten the skin?

The skin-brightening effect of Glutathione infusions is currently not clear[7]. In a study where participants received 1200 mg twice weekly for 6 weeks, 37.5% reported skin brightening, higher than the 18.7% who reported it with placebo infusions[2]. However, this effect faded by 6 months[2].

In the same study, 32% of participants—roughly 1 in 3—experienced adverse effects[2]. These included abnormal liver function values and one case of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)[2]. Philippine health authorities have also issued warnings, citing the lack of established dosage standards and concerns about liver effects[2].

Glutathione has also been studied in oral form. In a study where participants took 500 mg daily for 4 weeks, skin color indices in sun-exposed areas decreased[2]. It has not been confirmed that infusions are superior to oral or topical methods[2].

How should other infusions be considered?

NMN infusions, placenta injections, fatigue-recovery infusions, and others—within the scope of this review, we found no studies comparing their effects for beauty purposes in healthy people. Their effectiveness cannot be measured on the same scale as vitamin C or Glutathione infusions.

The advantage of infusions is that their contents can be customized to suit each individual body[3]. Therefore, it is important to confirm before receiving an infusion what substances and doses will be administered.

What should you tell your doctor before receiving an infusion?

You should mention whether you have kidney disease, kidney stones, G6PD deficiency, diabetes, anemia, or blood disorders. Also discuss any medications or supplements you are taking and any previous adverse reactions to infusions.

After that, confirm with your doctor what purpose you want the infusion for. Your body type and the appropriate dose cannot be determined from an article alone, so have your doctor make this judgment during your consultation.