Glutathione IV Drip (Baek-ok Injection): Ingredients, Effects, and Who It's For

The so-called 'Baek-ok' (White Jade) injection has been gaining a lot of attention lately, largely thanks to actress Gil Ra-im. Our clinic has been offering this treatment for years, but interest and the number of patients coming in for it have clearly increased since it became public knowledge that Gil Ra-im had received the Baek-ok injection, Cinderella drip, placenta injection, and similar treatments.

Even our clinic's associate directors get the Baek-ok injection two to three times a week — that's how popular it is!

So, what exactly is the Baek-ok injection?

The Baek-ok injection is an intravenous (IV) drip that combines glutathione (600 mg per ampoule) with normal saline or a glucose solution. Much like the Cinderella drip, it is easiest to think of it as a standard IV infusion. Apart from the initial pinch when the needle is inserted, the procedure is essentially painless, making it one of the most comfortable treatments you can receive while simply lying down.

The Baek-ok injection is also widely known as the 'Beyoncé injection,' a nickname that arose from reports that Beyoncé receives it regularly and that her skin has noticeably brightened as a result — as seen in photos that have circulated widely online.

This is one of the most well-known photographs associated with the treatment. Interest in glutathione injections is growing not only in Korea but also internationally.

This photo is another frequently cited example. It shows a change not just in facial tone but in overall skin tone across the entire body.

It is worth noting that Beyoncé almost certainly combined glutathione injections with other treatments or lifestyle practices. That said, regular use of glutathione injections does appear to have been part of her routine.

Searching 'Glutathione Injection' on Google, it becomes clear that this treatment may actually be even more popular abroad than in Korea. Results can vary depending on skin type and individual differences, but the brightening effect tends to be more pronounced in people with naturally higher melanin content — which generally includes those with darker skin tones compared to the average Korean.

The photo above shows before-and-after images of another foreign celebrity who has used the Baek-ok injection. A significant improvement in overall skin tone is visible, and similar images are used for promotional purposes in other countries as well.

It is important to understand, however, that glutathione does far more than brighten skin tone.

Glutathione is a potent antioxidant. It neutralizes free radicals — a major driver of cellular aging — and supports liver function. In practice, one of the first improvements patients tend to notice after starting these injections is a reduction in fatigue, even before any change in skin tone. Some patients also report that receiving the injection after a night of heavy drinking helps them recover from a hangover more quickly.

Historically, glutathione attracted widespread interest primarily for its powerful detoxifying and antioxidant properties. Its skin-brightening effect was subsequently observed in clinical settings, which led to the popular nickname 'Baek-ok' (White Jade) injection.

How does glutathione produce its skin-brightening effect? Glutathione inhibits the activity of tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. The more melanin in the skin, the darker the complexion — so by suppressing tyrosinase activity, glutathione can gradually brighten skin tone.

For this reason, the Baek-ok injection is beneficial not only for those who want a lighter complexion, but also for people who are concerned about tanning after a vacation in a sunny destination or prolonged sun exposure. When combined with laser treatments such as IPL or laser toning, the melanogenesis-inhibiting effect of glutathione may produce a synergistic result.

Personally, the author recently returned from a trip to an equatorial region and found, after receiving the Baek-ok injection several times following the trip, that the skin darkening was less than expected.

To summarize, the Baek-ok injection may be a suitable option for the following:

1. Those who want to help prevent premature aging.

2. Those who frequently experience fatigue.

3. Those who wish to brighten their skin tone.

4. Those who have had significant sun exposure through travel or outdoor activities.

5. Those undergoing laser treatments (before or after procedures).

6. Those with a weakened immune system or generally low physical condition.

7. Those recovering from a hangover after heavy alcohol consumption the night before.

For individuals in the above situations, receiving the Baek-ok injection one to two times per week on a consistent basis (a course of at least 10 sessions is generally recommended) may lead to gradual improvements, starting with reduced fatigue and progressing to a brighter, more even skin tone.