Glutathione
Occurs naturally in skin Defends against environmental damage
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
What Is Glutathione?
Glutathione is a powerful, non-enzymatic antioxidant which naturally occurs in the skin where it serves to help defend it against the visible effects of environmental damage. The gradual decline of the natural supply of glutathione in the body is believed to be a key marker of many outward signs of ageing.
Glutathione is a tripeptide comprised of three amino acids (cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine), which work in unison when used topically to brighten a dull complexion while offering skin-restoring benefits. It has value for visibly fading discolorations when used in a 2% concentration due to its ability to interrupt an enzyme within skin’s surface that triggers hyperpigmentation.
Glutathione has also been shown to help stabilize and enhance the performance of other antioxidants such as vitamin C, even when used in low concentrations.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2019, pages 728–737
- Clinical Cosmetic and Investigative Dermatology, April 2017, pages 147-153 and October 2014, pages 267-274
- Nutrients, August 2017, pages 1-27
- DermatoEndocrinology, July 2012, pages 308-319
- Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2011, pages 3,940-3,949
- The Dermatologist, October 2011, volume 19, issue 10
- Journal of Dermatologic Science, May 2010, pages 85-90
- Free Radical Biology and Medicine, October 1994, pages 333-349
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- GLUTATHIONE
- EC Number
- 200-725-4
- Function
- Redu CI Ng
Related Ingredients
3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
A more stable derivative of pure vitamin C Capable of helping fade dark spots
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Type of polysaccharide
Acai
Potent source of skin-beneficial antioxidants Contains ferulic acid and epicatechin
Acer Saccharum Extract
Plant extract noted in research for its antioxidant compounds
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