Glutathione & Collagen: Experts debunk the hype behind popular beauty supplements
Glutathione and collagen are probably the two most popular buzzwords in the beauty and wellness world. The global collagen market was valued at USD 6.49 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 11.01 billion by 2030. The worldwide glutathione market was valued at USD 422.67 million in 2024.
If advertisers are to be believed, these two magic ingredients for perfect skin can give you stronger hair and reduce signs of aging. Dr Pradeep Kumar Singh, Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery at Artemis Hospitals and Dr Pravin Banodkar, Co-Founder and Lead Dermatologist at SkinBB- a skin care technology platform, break down the truth behind these ‘magic’ products.
According to experts, the body naturally produces glutathione, a potent antioxidant that helps fight off free radicals and strengthen immunity. It is, however, not a ‘miracle skin whitener’. Using it over time might lead to skin brightening, but its primary function is shielding cells from oxidative stress rather than changing the color of your skin. Dr Singh warned that IV injections may work quickly, but they come with serious risks like allergic reactions or problems with organs. Oral supplements are safer and have fewer side effects, but they take a few weeks to work.
Dr Banodkar says glutathione is a natural antioxidant that helps the body get rid of toxins, making the immune system stronger and skin look healthier. Taking oral supplements is normally safe up to 500 mg a day, but long-term safety data is not available. He cautions against IV formulations as they can induce major allergic reactions and can damage the liver. He says many countries have banned some IV glow drips because they may contain unregulated ingredients that are not safe.
While injections cost anywhere between Rs 4,000-8,000, tablets, depending on the brand, can cost anywhere between Rs 400 to Rs 3000.
Banodkar pointed out that people assume glow products with collagen and glutathione are safe; however, the safety of these products depends on the quality, the right dosage, and the individual's health. According to him, a dosage of 2.5 to 15 gms of collagen per day can have benefits like helping your skin become more elastic, making the hair and nails stronger, and supporting joints better. There is, however, a lot of debate about how effective it is, and a lot of industry-sponsored research supports it.
Supplements containing collagen, typically hydrolysed peptides, can improve bone strength, joint health, and skin elasticity. Dr Pradeep says the majority of adults experience minor side effects, such as upset stomachs, on taking these supplements. However, he cautioned that supplements that lack third-party testing are unregulated, and some may contain toxins or heavy metals.
Explaining the side effects of collagen usage, Dr Banodkar says it can range from mild gastrointestinal troubles, rashes, or a feeling of being bloated. He warns that products that aren't monitored or are of low quality might be more dangerous because they might be contaminated by heavy metals. He specifically mentioned that fish collagen can also induce allergic reactions, which might not be mentioned on the product label.
It is important to look through the products carefully, not just a trend. These products are safe when used correctly and under medical supervision. The myths and the overblown claims around them are, however, dangerous.
Singh is an advocate of simple and consistent habits like eating foods high in protein, getting enough vitamin C, drinking enough water, protecting your skin from the sun, and living a balanced life. While Dr Banodkar recommends that such products should be purchased from well-known brands and one must consult a dermatologist before using them, especially for the skin lightening process. He agrees that getting enough vitamin C, drinking enough water, protecting your skin from the sun, and living a balanced life can work just as well.
Thus, experts suggest that one must make smart, long-lasting, and all-around good choices for health as the first step to achieving a truly radiant glow.
Health