In the pursuit of brighter, healthier-looking skin, both glutathione whitening injections and oral supplements have gained significant attention. But which one works better? Which is safer? And what does science actually say?
At Dr. Zobia Mehmood’s Aesthetic & Skin Clinic, we believe in evidence-based skincare. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand both options so you can make an informed choice.
What Is Glutathione?
Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant naturally produced by your body. It helps detoxify the skin, reduce melanin (pigment) production, and boost your natural glow by fighting oxidative stress. However, stress, pollution, poor diet, and aging reduce your natural glutathione levels — which can lead to dull, uneven skin.Whitening Injections: Fast, Targeted, and Medical-Grade
Glutathione injections are typically administered intravenously (IV) for rapid absorption.Benefits
- Faster Results: Visible skin brightening in 2–4 weeks (varies by dose and metabolism)
- Higher Absorption Rate: 100% direct absorption into the bloodstream
- Even Skin Tone: Often paired with vitamin C for enhanced skin clarity
- Detox Benefits: Boosts liver health and immune function as well
Considerations
- Must be administered by a licensed medical professional
- Requires a treatment course (usually weekly sessions for 6–8 weeks)
- Not recommended for those with kidney or liver issues without consultation
Oral Supplements
Convenient But Slower Oral glutathione supplements are widely available and easy to use.Benefits:
- Non-invasive & safe for long-term use
- Ideal for maintenance after injections
- Often combined with Vitamin C, NAC, or Alpha Lipoic Acid for better absorption
Considerations:
- Lower bioavailability: Only 10–30% absorption through digestion
- Slower results: May take 2–3 months or longer to notice visible effects
- Not suitable for very quick results or intensive treatments
Our Expert Recommendation
“For faster, medically supervised skin brightening, whitening injections are more effective. But for long-term maintenance and internal skin health, oral supplements work well too — especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle and proper skincare.” — Dr. Zobia MehmoodCombination Therapy Is the Best Approach
Many patients at our clinic start with a course of glutathione injections and then shift to oral supplements for maintenance. We also pair treatments with IV drips, mesotherapy, and skin peels for optimal results.Important: Not a One-Size-Fits-All Treatment
Everyone’s skin type, metabolism, and goals are different. That’s why we offer personalized consultations to assess:- Skin condition & pigmentation
- Medical history
- Lifestyle factors
- Treatment goals


