What is Glutathione? | Physician Explains the Effects, Whitening, and Side Effects of Drips and Injections ("Bihaku Drip")
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"What is a 'Shiratamia Injection'?" "Can glutathione really whiten skin?" "How long does it take for results to appear?" Many people are interested in glutathione injections (Shiratamia injections) but have numerous questions and concerns.
Glutathione is an antioxidant produced in the body, widely used in cosmetic medicine through IV drips and injections for its skin whitening, fatigue recovery, and detoxification effects. It is also known as "Shiratamia drip" or "Shiratamia injection."
Both "Shiratamia injection" and "Shiratamia drip" refer to treatments using glutathione. The drip allows for a higher dose, while the injection is a quick and convenient option.
In this article, a doctor from Jujo Ekimae Haru Internal Medicine and Dermatology Clinic will explain the effects of glutathione injections, how long it takes to see results, the difference between injections and drips, recommended frequency, side effects, and the synergistic effects with vitamin C, all based on medical evidence.
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What is Glutathione (Shiratamia Injection)?
Glutathione is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids: glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. It is one of the most powerful antioxidants naturally present in the body. Produced in the liver, it plays a crucial role in preventing oxidative damage to cells, detoxification, and maintaining immune function.
Shiratamia Injection is a cosmetic medical procedure that directly administers this glutathione intravenously or via an IV drip. It is widely used for skin whitening and improving skin clarity. The common name "Shiratamia" (meaning "white jade") comes from the idea that glutathione's whitening effect makes the skin as clear as white jade.
The amount of glutathione in the body decreases with age, stress, UV exposure, and smoking. Supplementing it through injections or IV drips offers high absorption and immediate effects that are difficult to achieve with oral intake.
Effects of Glutathione Injections
|
Effect |
Mechanism/Details |
|---|---|
|
Skin Whitening/Tone-up |
Inhibits melanin-producing enzymes (tyrosinase), suppressing melanin production. Improves dullness and dark spots, leading to clearer skin. |
|
Improvement of Spots/Pigmentation |
Breaks down and eliminates existing melanin. Continuous use accumulates effects. |
|
Antioxidant/Anti-aging |
Strong free radical scavenging action prevents oxidative damage to cells. Inhibits skin aging and overall aging. |
|
Fatigue Recovery/Improvement of Malaise |
Detoxification and accelerated cell metabolism improve chronic fatigue and general sluggishness. |
|
Liver Function Support |
Aids in liver cell detoxification and supports improvement of liver function values (also for those who drink alcohol frequently). |
|
Immune System Enhancement |
Activates immune cells and enhances resistance to infections. |
Glutathione is a "total body maintenance component" that works widely not only for skin whitening but also for fatigue recovery, liver function, and immunity. The fact that it can achieve both beauty and health goals simultaneously is why it is supported by many people.
How soon can you feel the effects?
Glutathione injections have immediate effects, and some people feel them after just one session. However, the time it takes to feel the effects varies depending on the purpose.
|
Type of Effect |
When Effects are Most Noticeable |
Key Points |
|---|---|---|
|
Skin Tone-up / Clarity |
1st-3rd session (immediate effect) |
The most quickly noticeable effect. Many people feel a reduction in dullness. |
|
Improvement of Spots / Pigmentation |
After 1-3 months of continuous use |
Melanin breakdown takes time. Weekly sessions are effective. |
|
Fatigue Recovery |
Same day - next day |
Highly immediate effect. Many people feel a sense of lightness in their body after the procedure. |
|
Overall Skin Tone Evenness |
After 2-3 months of continuous use |
Effects accumulate with continuous use. |
This treatment is more about "accumulating effects through continuous use" rather than "dramatic changes in one session." If your goal is skin whitening and spot improvement, we recommend at least 3 months of continuous treatment.
Difference Between Injections and Drips – Which to Choose
|
Injection (Intravenous) |
Drip |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Time Required |
Several minutes |
10-15 minutes |
|
Glutathione Amount |
Small to medium |
Medium to large (concentration and volume can be adjusted) |
|
Strength of Effect |
Standard |
Stronger effect with higher dosage |
|
Cost |
Relatively affordable |
Higher than injections |
|
Recommended for |
Those with limited time, those who want to continue easily, first-timers |
Those seeking higher whitening effects and simultaneous fatigue recovery |
|
Downtime |
Almost none |
Almost none |
Many first-timers try injections to gauge the effects and then switch to drips as they continue. Please consult us during your examination to determine which is best for you.
Recommended Frequency – How often to visit
|
Purpose |
Recommended Frequency |
Estimated Period |
|---|---|---|
|
Skin whitening/Clarity (intensive care) |
1-2 times a week |
First 1-2 months |
|
Improvement of spots/pigmentation |
Once a week |
Continue for 3-6 months |
|
Maintenance of effects |
1-2 times a month |
After intensive care |
|
Fatigue recovery/Health management |
As needed, when feeling tired |
As required |
If you are busy, it is also possible to start with "1-2 maintenance sessions per month." Consistency is key, so please consult us for a plan that suits your pace.
Enhanced Effects with Vitamin C Combination
Administering glutathione and vitamin C simultaneously enhances their synergistic effects for whitening and antioxidant benefits.
|
Combined Effect |
Reason |
|---|---|
|
Enhanced Whitening Effect |
Vitamin C also has melanin production inhibiting effects, and simultaneous administration with glutathione doubles the effect. |
|
Improved Glutathione Stability |
Vitamin C protects glutathione from oxidation, extending its duration in the body. |
|
Enhanced Fatigue Recovery |
The antioxidant and fatigue recovery effects of Vitamin C work synergistically with glutathione. |
|
Promotion of Collagen Production |
Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis. Also improves skin firmness and elasticity. |
Our clinic also offers combination menus of glutathione + high-dose vitamin C drips. This is recommended for those seeking stronger effects.
Side Effects and Precautions
Glutathione injections are generally safe, but rarely, the following side effects may occur.
|
Side Effect |
Details/Action |
|---|---|
|
Pain/Bruising at Injection Site |
Mild pain or bruising during vein access. Improves within a few days. |
|
Headache/Dizziness |
Rarely occurs during or after the procedure. Lying down helps. |
|
Allergic Reaction |
Very rare. If rash or itching occurs, consult a doctor. |
|
Feeling of Low Blood Sugar |
May occur if procedure is done on an empty stomach. Recommended to eat a light meal beforehand. |
⚠️ Pregnant or breastfeeding women should refrain from the procedure. Please consult us beforehand if you have severe liver, kidney, or heart conditions.
Recommended for people who:
-
Are concerned about skin dullness and dark tones
-
Want to care for spots and pigmentation from within
-
Experience persistent fatigue or chronic malaise
-
Drink alcohol frequently or want to support their liver
-
Are interested in anti-aging and overall aging care
-
Want to start cosmetic medical treatments with no downtime
-
Want to combine with vitamin C drips to enhance effects
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Can I still donate blood after receiving glutathione injections (Shiratamia injections)?
There are no blood donation restrictions for glutathione injections/drips alone. However, if you receive placenta injections (Laennec/Melsmon), you will be unable to donate blood. Please check beforehand if you plan to receive both.
Q. Is there a difference in effect between oral (ingested) glutathione and injections?
Yes, there is a significant difference. Oral glutathione is broken down and absorbed in the digestive tract, so its blood concentration does not rise as easily compared to injections/drips. In terms of skin whitening and immediate effects, injections are overwhelmingly superior. Oral intake can be used as a complementary maintenance method when combined with injections.
Q. How long do the effects of Shiratamia injections last?
Since it is metabolized and consumed in the body, the duration of effects varies depending on the treatment amount, frequency, and lifestyle. Consistent visits help maintain and accumulate the effects. For maintaining whitening effects, monthly or bi-monthly maintenance is a guideline.
Q. Can men receive glutathione injections?
Absolutely. Many men also use it for fatigue recovery, liver function support, and anti-aging purposes. The treatment is available for all genders.
Q. Can I receive glutathione injections and Juvelook at the same time?
Yes, they can be combined. Glutathione provides systemic whitening and antioxidant effects, while Juvelook offers localized treatment for pores, elasticity, and acne scars. Combining them can lead to synergistic effects depending on your goals.
Visit Flow
-
WEB Reservation or Walk-in
If you have severe pain or fever, please contact us by phone. We will guide you through the visiting process. -
Reception & Filling out Medical Questionnaire
Reception & Filling out Medical QuestionnairePlease fill in your preferences regarding glutathione, any concerns you have, your medical history, and any medications you are currently taking.
-
Doctor's Consultation
Doctor's ConsultationThe doctor will assess your physical condition, skin condition, and desired effects, then propose an injection or drip plan.
-
Drip/Injection
Procedure & PrescriptionWe will perform a glutathione injection or drip according to your wishes. Combination with vitamin C is also available.
-
Payment & Departure
Home Care GuidanceWe will explain post-treatment precautions (regarding bathing, exercise, and alcohol consumption on the day of treatment).
Clinic Hours & Access
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Clinic Name | Jujo Ekimae Haru Internal Medicine and Dermatology Clinic |
| Consultation Hours | Monday to Sunday, open from 9 AM daily. Open until 8 PM on Wednesdays, 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7 PM on Sundays. |
| Closed | None (Irregular holidays) |
| Location | J&MALL 1F, 2-27-1 Kami-Jujo, Kita-ku, Tokyo 114-0034 |
| By Train/Walk | Approximately 1-2 minutes walk from JR Saikyo Line "Jujo Station", on the 1st floor of J&MALL. |
| By Bus | Right in front of the Kokusai Kogyo Bus "Jujo Station" bus stop. |
| By Car | Please use nearby coin parking lots. |
| Contact | TEL: 03-6698-2509 / Official LINE:https://lin.ee/AL0fp3z |
