Glutathione Explained: Benefits, Myths & Everything In Between

Glutathione

There is a love-hate relationship with this one I must admit !

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant naturally produced in the body, It is composed of three amino acids: glutamine, cysteine and glycine. Its primary role is to neutralise free radicals, detoxify harmful substances in the liver and support the immune system. In the field of aesthetics it is widely promoted for skin brightening, detoxification and anti-aging effects.

Different uses of Glutathione:

• Antioxidant support: neutralizes oxidative stress and protects cells from damage.

• Liver detoxification: used to manage fatty liver, alcohol related liver damage and drug induced liver injury.

• Immune system enhancement and reduces inflammation.

• Neurological health- protects brain cells from oxidative damage.

• Chronic disease management- investigated in diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer for reducing oxidative stress.

Glutathione for skin:

• Lighten hyperpigmentation and dark spots

• Improve skin tone and radiance

• Reduce oxidative stress (anti-aging)

• Supports detox pathway in the liver

Glutathione across different forms:

• Soaps/washes/creams: no systemic absorption. Glutathione molecules are too large to penetrate the skin deeply. Studies show limited or no real effect when applied topically - so save the bucks

• Tablets/capsules: often combined with Vit C or NAC, low to moderate bioavailability but it can be used as general supplementation

• Liposomal: it is encapsulated in a fat layer which helps it bypass digestive breakdown and improve absorption into the bloodstream. 

• Intravenous: it delivers the antioxidant directly into the bloodstream leading to immediate and complete absorption. Used for aggressive detoxification, liver support or cosmetic skin changes.

• Sublingual: is taken under the tongue where it absorbs through the mucous membrane directly into the bloodstream. Faster and more efficient than oral tablets.

• Inhaled or nebulised: sometimes used in respiratory conditions for high localised effectiveness.

Long term benefits:

• Reduces inflammation

• Enhanced liver and cellular detox

• Improved skin tone

• Increased energy and endurance

• Better immune response

Side effects:

• Bloating or cramping (in oral formulation)

• Skin rashes or allergic reaction

• Zinc deficiency with long term higher doses

Who can benefit from using glutathione?

• People with chronic oxidative stress- smokers, heavy drinkers

• Individuals with liver disease or undergoing detoxification

• Neurodegenerative diseases

• Skin brightening or anti-ageing effects

• Athletes or highly active individually - for recovery support

• People with autoimmune or chronic inflammatory diseases