The recent death of actress Shefali Jariwala at the age of 42 has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and ignited a critical conversation about the pursuit of beauty, the potential dangers of unregulated cosmetic treatments, and the pressures faced by those in the public eye. While the official cause of death is still under investigation, initial reports and subsequent inquiries have raised concerns about the possible role of anti-aging and skin-lightening treatments, specifically glutathione injections, in her sudden demise.
Jariwala, known for her appearance in the 2002 remix music video "Kaanta Laga", was found dead at her Mumbai residence on June 27, 2025. Her husband, actor Parag Tyagi, rushed her to the hospital, but she was declared dead on arrival. Police investigations are underway, and a post-mortem examination has been conducted to determine the exact cause of death. Forensic teams have also collected medical samples from her residence for further investigation. The post-mortem report is awaited and histopathology and chemical analysis samples have been sent to Kalina Forensic Science Laboratory for evaluation.
According to police sources, Jariwala had been using skin whitening and anti-aging treatments for approximately eight years. These treatments reportedly included glutathione and Vitamin C, and she had allegedly been using an anti-aging injection for several years under medical supervision. On the day of her death, she had been fasting for a Satyanarayana Puja and had taken her routine medication, along with the anti-aging injection. Later that night, she experienced a significant drop in blood pressure and began shivering, prompting her family to rush her to the hospital. Some reports suggest she also consumed stale fried rice after fasting, which may have contributed to her health issues.
The discovery of glutathione vials at her residence has turned the spotlight on the growing trend of skin-lightening treatments and their potential risks. Glutathione is a natural antioxidant found in the body, but it is also used in cosmetic treatments to reduce melanin production, leading to a lighter skin tone. It is available in various forms, including topical applications, oral supplements, and intravenous (IV) injections. While oral glutathione is generally considered safe when taken under prescribed dosages, IV glutathione is more controversial. This method involves injecting high doses directly into the bloodstream, often without proper regulatory guidelines.
Medical experts warn that IV glutathione poses serious safety risks, including allergic reactions, skin rashes, liver toxicity, and kidney damage. There are no globally accepted safety standards for IV glutathione doses, and unregulated clinics and salons offering such treatments may be endangering people's lives. Doctors stress the importance of consulting qualified experts and avoiding the temptation to follow social media influencers or celebrities who promote these treatments.
Jariwala's death serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with the pursuit of beauty and the importance of making informed decisions about cosmetic treatments. It highlights the need for stricter regulations and greater awareness of the risks involved, particularly with IV glutathione and other injectable treatments. As Dr. BL Jangid, Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon at SkinQure Clinic, Delhi, stated, "No anti-ageing result is worth endangering your life".
