When conducting an online search for skin brightening and skin lightening treatments in Maryland, you may be surprised to learn that some women are turning to unregulated IV treatments to enhance their skin tone.

Continue reading to learn more about this trend, including the specific therapies women are requesting and their reasons why.

IV Glutathione for Skin Lightening and Brightening

While bleaching creams have been at the core of the skin lightening market for years, an increasing number of women are requesting IV drips of glutathione in an effort to lighten and brighten their melanin-rich skin.

Glutathione is a naturally-occurring antioxidant that is often used to treat digestive issues. Some patients who were undergoing IV glutathione infusions for this very purpose have also reported skin lightening as a notable side effect. This is due to the fact that glutathione can deactivate the enzyme that helps produce melanin.

Although researchers have studied glutathione’s antioxidant properties, there haven’t been any randomized clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy or safety of IV glutathione drips for skin lightening.

Melanotan-II Injections for a Sun-Kissed Complexion

On the other hand, women with lighter skin tones are undergoing Melanotan-II injections to achieve a deeper skin tone and tanned appearance. Melanotan-II is a synthetic peptide that is similar to a hormone in our bodies that works to stimulate melanin.

Although Melanotan-II is banned in the U.S., there are some women who routinely seek injections ahead of tropical vacations to boost their tanning. And while tanning in and of itself increases the risk of skin cancer, researchers also believe that Melanotan-II can stimulate pigments in benign and cancerous spots.

Learn More About Skin Brightening and Skin Lightening Treatments in Maryland

If you are interested in skin lightening treatments in Maryland and want to learn more about FDA-approved options, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our highly skilled and talented providers.