Gujarat : Ahmedabad Youth Turn to IV Drips for Navratri Glow

AHMEDABAD: As Navratri fever grips Ahmedabad, a new pre-Garba trend is gaining attention among youngsters—IV drip therapy, with some turning to vitamin and wellness infusions in the hope of staying energetic and achieving a radiant appearance through the festival.

The trend is being reported among both young women and men, with dermatology and cosmetic clinics witnessing increased enquiries ahead of the nine-night celebrations. However, doctors stress that IV therapy is a medical procedure and should not be treated as a routine beauty or energy booster.

IV, or intravenous therapy, involves delivering fluids, medicines or nutrients directly into a vein, usually through an IV line placed in the arm. Depending on medical requirements, some wellness drips may contain vitamins, minerals or other ingredients.

Dr Monica Tibrewal, dermatologist and cosmetologist at Scanera Skin and Cosmetic Clinic, Thaltej, said some clinics are seeing increased demand for customised vitamin-based drips before Navratri.

“These drips may contain micronutrients such as multivitamins, vitamin C, B vitamins, zinc, magnesium and glutathione. But the composition should be decided only after assessing the individual’s requirements,” she said.

According to Tibrewal, clinics are seeing around 10-15 people a day seeking such treatments during the Navratri season, with sessions reportedly costing around ₹4,000-₹5,500. She stressed that medical assessment and supervision are essential before administration.

Another dermatologist, Dr Vyoma Mehta, said cosmetic treatment enquiries generally rise around Navratri as people want to look fresh during Garba events.

“People are also enquiring about glutathione IV drips, but it cannot be said that everyone needs or benefits from them,” Mehta said, adding that many seek the treatment for cosmetic reasons.

Importantly, evidence does not establish IV glutathione as a reliable instant skin-whitening or glow treatment. Recent reviews have found limited and inconsistent evidence for cosmetic skin lightening, while concerns about adverse effects and long-term safety remain.

The US FDA also reported adverse events linked to certain compounded IV glutathione products in 2026, underscoring the importance of appropriate injectable ingredients and medical oversight.

With Ahmedabad’s youth increasingly seeking quick ways to combine beauty and stamina during Navratri, dermatologists say medical necessity—not festival fashion—should determine whether an IV drip is appropriate.