Treatment Overview
Glutathione Drip, also known as Glutathione IV Therapy, is a popular dermatology treatment in Korea that supports hormonal acne management, skin healing, and overall complexion improvement. Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant naturally found in the body, and when administered intravenously, it helps detoxify, reduce oxidative stress, and balance inflammation—factors that often worsen hormonal acne.
In Korean dermatology clinics, glutathione drips are frequently included in “acne drip therapy programs” alongside vitamins (Vitamin C, B-complex), minerals, and sometimes amino acids. This therapy is especially valued for reducing post-acne pigmentation, calming inflammation, and promoting clearer, brighter skin.
Purpose & Benefits
- Anti-Inflammatory Effect: Helps reduce redness and swelling from hormonal breakouts.
- Detoxification Support: Flushes out toxins that may trigger skin inflammation.
- Antioxidant Protection: Neutralizes oxidative stress that worsens hormonal acne.
- Scar & Pigmentation Control: Lightens post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
- Skin Brightening: Improves overall skin tone and radiance.
- Synergistic Care: Works well with oral hormone therapy, peels, and LED light treatments.
Ideal Candidates
Glutathione Drip in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with hormonal acne aggravated by stress, menstrual cycles, or PCOS.
- Individuals struggling with post-acne pigmentation and uneven tone.
- Patients with sensitive skin prone to redness and inflammation.
- Those seeking a detoxifying, whole-body approach to acne care.
- Individuals who want both acne control and skin brightening benefits.
Possible Risks & Complications
Glutathione drips are generally safe when performed in medical clinics, but mild effects may include:
- Temporary Discomfort: Mild pain or bruising at the IV site.
- Dizziness or Nausea: Rare, usually resolves quickly.
- Allergic Reaction: Extremely rare but possible with IV therapy.
Korean dermatology clinics minimize risks by using medical-grade glutathione with sterile IV techniques.
Surgical Techniques Used
Although not surgical, Korean clinics use advanced IV infusion techniques:
- Glutathione IV Drip: Administered slowly via intravenous infusion.
- Cocktail Infusion: Often combined with Vitamin C, B-complex, or amino acids for stronger results.
- Customized Drips: Tailored formulas based on acne severity, pigmentation, and skin goals.
Protocol: Usually 5–10 sessions, spaced 1–2 weeks apart, followed by maintenance every 1–2 months.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: Patients feel more refreshed and hydrated.
1–2 Days: Skin redness and sensitivity improve.
2–4 Weeks: Hormonal acne flare-ups calm, pigmentation fades, and skin looks brighter.
Aftercare Tips:
- Stay hydrated to support detoxification.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to protect brightened skin.
- Maintain gentle acne skincare (non-comedogenic moisturizers, mild cleansers).
- Follow dermatologist’s advice if combined with oral or topical acne treatments.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Skin feels calmer and more hydrated.
- After 3–5 Sessions: Visible improvement in acne redness, skin tone, and healing speed.
- After 8–10 Sessions: Long-term skin clarity, reduced PIH, and stronger resistance against breakouts.
Maintenance drips every 4–8 weeks are common in Korea for sustained results.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Analysis
Dermatologist reviews acne pattern, pigmentation concerns, and overall health.
Preparation
Basic check-up (blood pressure, skin evaluation); IV site disinfected.
Glutathione Drip Session
- Step 1: IV line inserted into the arm or hand.
- Step 2: Glutathione + vitamin/mineral cocktail infused over 30–45 minutes.
- Step 3: Soothing skincare or LED light therapy may follow in some clinics.
Duration: 40–60 minutes.
Post-Treatment Care
Patients can resume daily activities immediately.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Multi-therapy Integration: Clinics combine IV drips with acne facials, LED therapy, and peels.
- Advanced Medical Protocols: Safe, tailored dosing by board-certified dermatologists.
- Focus on Scar & Pigmentation: IV therapy specifically designed to minimize PIH, common in Asian skin.
- Holistic Acne Programs: Often paired with oral hormone therapy for hormonal acne control.
- Cost-Effective Packages: Affordable compared to Western clinics, with high-quality results.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Glutathione Drip Session: USD 80 – 150
- Drip + LED/Soothing Care: USD 120 – 200
- Glutathione Cocktail Drip (with Vitamin C, B-complex, Amino Acids): USD 150 – 250
Example Korean Packages:
- Standard Program (5 sessions): USD 400 – 650
- Acne Care Program (5–7 sessions with LED/Peel add-ons): USD 700 – 1,100
- Premium Program (10 sessions with Exosomes/Rejuran boosters): USD 1,500 – 2,200
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Glutathione drips with acne detox and brightening focus.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Acne care programs combining peels + IV drips.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Customized glutathione drip cocktails with LED healing.
- View Dermatology: Hormonal acne management with IV therapy add-ons.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium glutathione programs with regenerative boosters.
