Glutathione
Glutathione is produced in small amounts by our liver and used for various bodily functions. Interestingly, glutathione was discovered by accident. A liver patient had been bedridden for a long time, and his body’s glutathione levels were depleting, leading to problems with various bodily functions. Researchers decided to administer glutathione externally. Not only did the liver problems improve, but they also noticed that the patient’s skin became much fairer. This unintended side effect brought attention to glutathione’s potential for skin lightening.
Many countries, especially the Philippines, have been using glutathione for a long time and in various forms, such as soap, face wash, capsules, lozenges, lotions, and injections. While glutathione is beneficial, it’s important to note that it should not be used as an over-the-counter drug without medical guidance. Long-term use of glutathione, particularly in injectable form, can have serious side effects if not taken under a doctor’s supervision.
Glutathione has been widely researched in countries like Thailand, Korea, and Japan. Studies have shown that using glutathione in cream or lotion form for two or three months can result in softer skin, reduced dark spots, glowing skin, and decreased pigmentation. Dietary supplements are also available in capsule and lozenge form, and studies suggest that lozenges may yield better results. Injectable glutathione works quickly and effectively but must be used with caution due to potential side effects.
For those with brown skin, using glutathione for one to three months shows good results. For those with moderately dark skin, using it for three to six months shows improvement, and for those with darker skin, six to nine months of use yields better results. For those with black skin, using glutathione for up to two years shows the best results. This is known as the effective dose, and to maintain brightness, long-term use of glutathione is necessary.
Although research has not identified any significant side effects of glutathione, injectable forms can cause gastric problems, including bloating. Additionally, glutathione doesn’t remain in the blood for long when taken in food or injectable form, minimizing potential side effects. However, the amount of glutathione to use and the duration of treatment must always be done under a doctor’s guidance.
How does Glutathione work?
Glutathione is super antioxidants, master of all antioxidants. Antioxidant works in our body due to various stress, pollution, infection, inflammation etc. free radicals are formed which are harmful for every cell and can even damage DNA. Glutathione is called the mother of antioxidants because it is a little different from other antioxidants. Glutathione occurs naturally in our body. The liver makes glutathione.
Every cell contains glutathione. It is directly linked with age. Glutathione levels decrease with age. So if the amount of glutathione is right then aging will be slow. Glutathione removes toxins from the body. Glutathione boosts the immune system and increases the body’s immune system.
How does glutathione work as a skin lightener?
Melanin determines the color of our skin and comes in two types: pheomelanin and eumelanin. Pheomelanin is a light-colored melanin, which is yellowish-red, while eumelanin is dark-colored melanin. When exposed to the sun, eumelanin becomes more concentrated. Glutathione works by converting eumelanin to pheomelanin, resulting in lighter pigmentation. Naturally, we can get glutathione from protein-rich foods like fish, lean meats, cauliflower, and bell peppers. Glutathione also helps keep vitamins A, C, and E active in our body.