Gen Z's Garba glow trend: Do IV drips really work?

As Ahmedabad gears up for Navratri, beauty IV drips promising glowing skin and hydration are drawing attention. But dermatologist warns that evidence for cosmetic benefits remains limited, while unnecessary infusions can pose health risks.

In Short

• Ahmedabad clinics are seeing pre-Navratri interest in cosmetic IV drips
• These infusions usually contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and sometimes glutathione
• Dermatologists say strong evidence for brighter skin in healthy people is lacking

As Ahmedabad gears up for Navratri, some young revellers are turning to intravenous (IV) drip therapy in the hope of achieving glowing skin, staying hydrated and maintaining energy through hours of Garba. But dermatologists caution that the promise of an instant glow may be greater than the scientific evidence supporting it.

Reports from Ahmedabad suggest that beauty and wellness IV drips are gaining attention ahead of the festival, with clinics seeing interest from people seeking quick fixes for their skin and energy levels. These infusions may contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and glutathione, an antioxidant that is also marketed for skin-lightening benefits.

However, the treatment raises questions about its effectiveness, safety and whether healthy individuals need such infusions in the first place.

WHAT IS BEHIND THE IV DRIP TREND?

IV therapy delivers fluids and selected nutrients directly into the bloodstream. While it has established medical uses, beauty and wellness clinics also promote certain formulations for hydration, skin brightness and energy.

Ahead of Navratri, the appeal is easy to understand. With late nights, elaborate outfits, makeup and hours of dancing, some young people are looking for ways to maintain their appearance throughout the festivities.

But a treatment being marketed for glowing skin does not necessarily mean it has been proven to deliver that result.

IV beauty drips can cost anywhere between Rs 4,000 and Rs 10,000 per session, with some packages going up to Rs 15,000. The price depends on the clinic and the ingredients used in the infusion.

DO BEAUTY IV DRIPS ACTUALLY IMPROVE SKIN GLOW?

Dr. Nitika Nijhara dermatologist and skin specialist, said the benefits of beauty IV drips are often exaggerated on social media.

"Although these drips may help correct dehydration or nutritional deficiencies when medically indicated, there is insufficient high-quality evidence that they significantly improve skin glow, brightness or collagen production in otherwise healthy individuals," she said.

According to the dermatologist, testimonials and before-and-after photographs should not be treated as reliable evidence of a treatment's effectiveness.

Vitamin C, for instance, plays an essential role in collagen synthesis, wound healing and antioxidant protection. However, Dr Nijhara said there is no convincing evidence that high-dose intravenous vitamin C improves skin appearance in people who are not deficient.

Glutathione may influence melanin production, but evidence supporting its use through IV infusions for skin lightening remains limited. Its long-term safety for cosmetic use is also uncertain.

THE RISKS OF GETTING AN IV DRIP WITHOUT MEDICAL NEED

Despite being promoted as a beauty or wellness treatment, IV therapy is a medical procedure and is not risk-free.

Dr. Nijhara warned that potential complications include bruising at the injection site, inflammation of the veins, infections, and allergic reactions, including rare severe reactions.

High-dose intravenous vitamin C may also cause kidney injury in susceptible individuals and increase the risk of hemolysis in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, a condition affecting red blood cells.

"Since IV administration bypasses normal gastrointestinal absorption, unnecessary high-dose infusions may expose individuals to risks without established cosmetic benefits," she said.

The dermatologist added that evidence on the long-term safety of repeated cosmetic IV drips remains inadequate. People with kidney disease, heart failure, or a history of severe allergic reactions should exercise particular caution. Those considering high-dose vitamin C should also be assessed for relevant medical risks, including G6PD deficiency.

WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR HEALTHY, GLOWING SKIN INSTEAD?

For young people hoping to achieve a healthy glow this Navratri, Dr. Nijhara recommends focusing on consistent skincare and everyday habits rather than seeking rapid results through unproven treatments.

"For most young, healthy individuals, a consistent skincare routine, balanced nutrition, adequate hydration, and sufficient sleep are more sensible and evidence-based approaches," she said.

A simple routine can include a gentle cleanser, moisturiser, and daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30–50. Ingredients such as topical vitamin C, niacinamide, and azelaic acid may help address specific skin concerns, depending on individual skin needs.

A balanced diet can provide essential nutrients, while correcting genuine deficiencies may further support skin health.

The dermatologist's advice is to focus on healthy, even-toned skin rather than pursuing rapid skin lightening through treatments whose benefits remain uncertain.

IV drips may have a role when medically indicated, but they are not a proven shortcut to glowing skin. Before opting for a cosmetic infusion this Navratri, consult a qualified medical professional and weigh the potential risks against the unproven benefits.

- Ends