WHAT IS GLUTATHIONE?

Glutathione is a trending buzzword in the skincare circuit. Is it just another trend or an ingredient that is changing the skincare scenario? Read on to find out more.

WHAT IS GLUTATHIONE?

Glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant naturally produced by the liver and central nervous system. It helps metabolise toxins, break down free radicals and support immune function, amongst other things.

Glutathione, a powerful antioxidant, has anti-melanogenic properties, which has made it a go-to ingredient for skin therapists dealing with hyperpigmentation. However, it has been marketed as a miracle ingredient for darker skin tones. We speak with experts and get you the right information and dispel myths about glutathione.

Since glutathione helps neutralise free radicals, reduce oxidative stress and lighten pigmentation, its skin-brightening properties have been hyped. As per a report from Grand View Research, the global glutathione market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7 per cent from 2021 to 2028, driven by its increasing inclusion in skincare regimens.

As a skincare ingredient, glutathione is present in drugstore and over-the-counter products, too, but it owes its popularity to professional skincare segment. While salons have glutathione-based facials, aesthetic practitioners have injections and serums as part of advanced skincare treatments. Many clients opt for glutathione IV therapy or topical applications to achieve faster, more noticeable results. Its anti-ageing benefits, alongside its skin-lightening effects, make it a favoured choice among beauty professionals.

As consumers become more conscious of achieving radiant, youthful skin, the use of glutathione in professional treatments continues to rise, positioning it as a key player in the evolving skincare landscape. However, it is important for skin therapists to know more about glutathione and use and recommend it in the right context. Let’s see what our experts have to say about the use of glutathione in skincare,

WHAT IS GLUTATHIONE, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR SKIN HEALTH?

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant composed of three amino acids: cysteine, glycine and glutamic acid. It plays a crucial role in neutralising free radicals and protecting the skin from oxidative damage while also helping to cleanse the skin, remove impurities, and ultimately achieve a brighter complexion. Additionally, glutathione is known for its skin-brightening properties, making it important for maintaining a youthful and radiant appearance.

HOW DOES GLUTATHIONE WORK AT THE CELLULAR LEVEL TO IMPROVE SKIN COMPLEXION?

Glutathione works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for melanin production. By reducing melanin synthesis, glutathione can lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. It also enhances cellular detoxification, promoting healthier skin from within.

HOW SHOULD YOU SELECT SKINCARE PRODUCTS THAT USE GLUTATHIONE AS AN INGREDIENT?

When selecting skincare products with glutathione, look for formulations that combine it with other antioxidants and skin-brightening agents like vitamin C. Ensure the product is from a reputable brand, as stability and formulation quality are key to efficacy. It’s also beneficial to choose products that offer both topical and oral glutathione for comprehensive skin benefits.

When selecting skincare products with glutathione, look for formulations that combine it with other antioxidants and skin-brightening agents.

HOW IS GLUTATHIONE ADMINISTERED IN AESTHETIC MEDICINE VS ITS USE IN A SALON SET-UP AND AT-HOME CARE?

In aesthetic medicine, glutathione is often administered intravenously for systemic effects, including skin brightening and overall detoxification. In a salon set-up or at-home care, glutathione is typically used in topical creams, serums or oral supplements, offering a more gradual but still effective improvement in skin tone and health.

ARE THERE ANY POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OR RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH USING GLUTATHIONE FOR SKIN LIGHTENING? WHAT ARE ITS CONTRAINDICATIONS?

While glutathione is generally considered safe, potential side effects may include allergic reactions, especially with intravenous use. Long-term or excessive use of oral or topical products may also disrupt natural melanin production. Individuals with asthma or liver issues should consult a healthcare provider before using glutathione.

CAN GLUTATHIONE HELP WITH SPECIFIC SKIN CONCERNS, SUCH AS HYPERPIGMENTATION OR ACNE?

Yes, glutathione is particularly effective in treating hyperpigmentation by reducing melanin production. Its antioxidant properties can also help reduce inflammation associated with acne, although it’s more commonly used for brightening rather than directly treating acne.

HOW LONG DO THE EFFECTS OF GLUTATHIONE LAST?

The effects of glutathione can vary depending on the method of administration and individual metabolism. For intravenous treatments, effects can last several weeks, while topical and oral applications may require consistent use for maintained results.

DO YOU AGREE WITH THE CURRENT PROMOTION OF GLUTATHIONE AS A SKIN LIGHTENING OR FAIRNESS INGREDIENT?

While glutathione’s skin-brightening effects are welldocumented, it’s essential to promote its use responsibly. Glutathione should be viewed as a component of overall skin health rather than just a fairness ingredient. It’s important to consider individual skin needs and to avoid perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards.

WHAT IS GLUTATHIONE, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR SKIN HEALTH?

Glutathione is a master antioxidant. This molecule is made up of glycine, cysteine and glutamic acid in the liver cells. Glutathione was widely used by physicians in liver diseases like cirrhosis, non-alcoholic liver disease (NASH) heart disease, diabetes, cancer etc. Later it was found to have excellent effects on ageing especially skin ageing and skin lightening. Glutathione reduces the oxidative stress by acting as a free radical scavenger.

HOW DOES GLUTATHIONE WORK AT THE CELLULAR LEVEL TO IMPROVE SKIN COMPLEXION?

Glutathione works by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme that produces melanin in the skin. This melanin pigment is responsible for hyperpigmentory disorders. Glutathione converts the eumelanin (brown-black pigment) into pheomelanin (yellow-red pigment) thus lightening the skin complexion.

The antioxidant activity also causes better skin health and thus a better skin complexion.

HOW SHOULD YOU SELECT SKINCARE PRODUCTS THAT USE GLUTATHIONE AS AN INGREDIENT?

As a dermatologist, I prefer using glutathione in oral tablet or capsule form. It is available in 500mg. This molecule is preferred to be taken to be taken in the morning. Glutathione is available in intravenous injections, in facewash and in certain topical medications.

Glutathione is a nutraceutical and preferably given by physicians only.

ARE THERE ANY POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS OR RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH USING GLUTATHIONE FOR SKIN LIGHTENING? WHAT ARE ITS CONTRAINDICATIONS?

Glutathione is mostly a safe molecule. However, intravenous glutathione injections can cause allergic reactions on skin. Patients complain of erythematous hives, itching, swelling and sometimes breathing difficulties while taking the infusion. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea are rare side-effects seen.

It should be avoided in patients suffering from asthma or sulpha allergy. It is completely contraindicated in pregnancy or lactating females.

CAN GLUTATHIONE HELP WITH SPECIFIC SKIN CONCERNS, SUCH AS HYPERPIGMENTATION OR ACNE?

Yes, the antioxidant and tyrosinase enzyme inhibition action will help in patients with skin concerns like hyperpigmentation or acne. However, it needs to be combined with other supporting topicals and oral medicines to complete the treatment.

HOW LONG DO THE EFFECTS OF GLUTATHIONE LAST?

The effects of glutathione vary from person to person. Once the patient stops taking oral or intravenous glutathione, the effect may last for few months. It slowly wears off like the effect of any other medicine. If it is maintained by other topical or oral antioxidant the results may continue to last longer.

DO YOU AGREE WITH THE CURRENT PROMOTION OF GLUTATHIONE AS A SKIN LIGHTENING OR FAIRNESS INGREDIENT?

Though glutathione works as a skin lightening agent it cannot be called a fairness agent. Every individual is born with a certain skin colour. However, with age and lifestyle habits like sun exposure, skincare used etc. one may lose out the original colour and become darker. With the help of glutathione, physicians help the patients to attain this colour over a period of time. It literally cleanses the skin off the free oxygen radicals leading to a brighter and healthier version of one’s skin.

Glutathione works by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme that produces melanin in the skin. This melanin pigment is responsible for hyperpigmentory disorders.