Shefali Jariwala's Sudden Death Raises Red Flags Over Anti-Ageing Treatments
While police are still investigating the exact cause of her death, whispers around her long-term use of anti-ageing and skin-lightening treatments, including glutathione IV infusions, have come to the surface, raising serious concerns about the dark side of aesthetic wellness trends.
What Experts Say: The Hidden Dangers of Anti-Ageing Therapies
According to Dr BL Jangid, Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon at SkinQure Clinic, Delhi, the popularity of anti-ageing procedures, especially injectable treatments, has exploded in the last decade.
'From oral supplements to IV infusions, people are chasing youth without understanding the risks. And glutathione, unfortunately, is often marketed as a miracle,' warns Dr Jangid.
What Is Glutathione and Why Is It Used?
Glutathione is a natural antioxidant found in our body. It plays a key role in detoxification and cellular repair. In recent years, it has gained cult status in the skincare and wellness industry for:
1. Reducing pigmentation
2. Brightening the skin
3. Offering supposed 'anti-ageing' benefits
It is available in oral capsules and intravenous infusions. And here's where the red flags begin.
IV Glutathione: The Risky Shortcut to 'Youth'
While oral glutathione supplements are generally safe under prescribed dosages, IV glutathione is far more controversial. The intravenous form introduces high doses directly into the bloodstream, often without proper regulatory guidelines.
Dr Jangid reveals risks and possible side effects of IV Glutathione:
1. Allergic reactions and skin rashes
2. Inflammation and respiratory distress
3. Worsening of asthma symptoms
4. Damage to liver and kidney functions
5. Potential cardiac strain when administered in high, unregulated doses
'There are no globally accepted safety standards for IV glutathione doses,' says Dr Jangid. 'Unregulated clinics and salons offering such treatments are playing with people's lives.'
What You Should Know Before Opting for Any Anti-Ageing Therapy
1. Always consult a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon
2. Avoid treatments at salons, spas, or unlicensed beauty clinics
3. If necessary, choose oral supplements under medical guidance
4. Demand full information about dosage, risks, and alternative options
'It's crucial to treat your skin like an organ, not a canvas. Anti-ageing should be medically monitored, not driven by trends,' Dr Jangid explains.
Is Beauty Worth the Risk?
Shefali's case may serve as a wake-up call. As aesthetics and beauty standards drive demand for quick fixes, consumers need to be better informed about the potential life-threatening complications of unregulated treatments.
Dr Jangid stresses, "No anti-ageing result is worth endangering your life."
Glutathione may promise a brighter, younger you, but when taken without medical supervision, especially via IV, it may lead to irreversible harm. Beauty, after all, is only skin deep. But your health? That's a life-or-death decision.
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If You Are On Anti-Ageing Drugs Like Shefali Jariwala, What Are The Rules Of Fasting?
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"Always match your supplement with its absorption needs and your body's tolerance level. If a food or supplement no matter how healthy doesn't suit your body, it is as good as a toxin," she shares. Vriti further says that understanding the timing for taking the supplement and whether it is to be taken before or after a meal, and whether it can be taken on an empty stomach is essential. This is because certain supplements need food for absorption and some can irritate the stomach lining when taken on an empty stomach. "Especially adaptogens like ashwagandha, rhodiola, etc, and the trending nutrient berberine can have a glucose and blood pressure lowering effect. Consuming such supplements on an empty stomach can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) or blood pressure. The common supplements for anti-aging like collagen, Omega-3 fish oils, minerals like zinc, magnesium, iron, Vitamin C can irritate the gut and trigger nausea and acid reflux," she adds. 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