The side effect that made glutathione famous
How a cosmetic headline hid what glutathione really does for your cells
Most people heard about glutathione because of one cosmetic effect. That is how it became famous, not what it was made to do. Glutathione is a small three part protein your cells make from glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It is present in almost every cell, especially in the liver. Its main job is to help your cells handle daily stress, keep other antioxidants working, and support natural detox processes. Think of it as routine maintenance for your cells. [1,2]
Glutathione can influence how skin makes pigment. It can slow tyrosinase, the enzyme that starts melanin formation, and it can shift melanin toward pheomelanin which is lighter. This is a side effect of its chemistry, not its main purpose in the body. Results from supplements are usually modest and vary from person to person. [3,4]
Older claims said “no.” Newer human trials say “yes.” A six month randomised trial showed that 250 to 1000 mg per day raised glutathione in blood and cells in a dose and time dependent way, and levels fell back after stopping. A four week study with liposomal glutathione at 500 to 1000 mg per day also showed rises and favourable changes in oxidative stress markers. [5,6]
A practical plan many adults use is a total of about 500 mg per day by mouth. You can split the dose with meals. Pairing with vitamin C or with dietary precursors like cysteine and glycine is common but not mandatory. Expect steady support over weeks rather than a quick feeling. [5,6]
Glutathione as a raw ingredient is expensive. Very cheap products often contain little actual glutathione.
Injectable or IV glutathione for cosmetic lightening is expensive and evidence is limited. Health authorities have issued safety advisories after reports of adverse events with cosmetic drips. For most people, oral use is the sensible first step. Speak to a qualified professional before any IV treatment. [7,8]
We make a plain single ingredient capsule that provides 250 mg of reduced L-glutathione each. That makes it easy to reach a common total of 500 mg per day by taking two capsules. If you prefer another brand, use the label checks above so you know exactly what you are getting.
This article is informational and not medical advice. If you are pregnant, have a medical condition, or take prescription medicine, please consult your healthcare provider before using any supplement.
[1] Sies H. Glutathione and its role in cellular functions. Free Radical Biology & Medicine. Overview of glutathione as a central cellular antioxidant.
[2] Lushchak VI. Glutathione homeostasis and functions. Biochemistry Research International. Summary of detoxification, redox balance, and immune support roles.
[3] Sonthalia S, et al. Glutathione in dermatology: mechanisms and clinical evidence. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy. Review of tyrosinase effects and pheomelanin shift.
[4] Gillbro JM, Olsson MJ. The melanogenesis pathway and points of intervention. Acta Dermato-Venereologica. Mechanistic discussion of eumelanin vs pheomelanin balance.
[5] Richie JP Jr., et al. Randomised trial of oral glutathione (250–1000 mg/day) showing increased body stores over 6 months. European Journal of Nutrition.
[6] Sinha R, et al. Oral liposomal glutathione (500–1000 mg/day) increased blood and immune cell glutathione with improved oxidative stress markers. Nutrition and Metabolic Insights.
[7] U.S. FDA. Safety communications regarding injectable glutathione marketed for skin lightening. Advisory notes on risks and lack of evidence.
[8] Philippine FDA. Public advisory discouraging IV lightening drips, including glutathione, due to safety concerns.
Disclaimer
Information on this site is general and for education only, based on research sources and our opinions, with references for further reading. It is not medical, nutritional, or fitness advice; consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any exercise, diet, supplement, or medication. We make no claims, guarantees, or warranties, and use is at your own risk. Products and supplements mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
