Know About Glutathione and its Potential in Skin Whitening Treatment
With time and age, skin has the tendency to develop signs of aging. Skin gets its color by deposition of melanin, produced by melanocytes. Skin color has become more important in women's life because of the social stigma. There are many topical depigmenting agents such as hydroquinone, glycolic acid, arbutin, kojic acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and niacinamide etc.
Natural sources of glutathione are fresh fruits, tomatoes, avocado, asparagus, walnuts etc. Glutathione, being one of the skin whitening agents, is also a powerful antioxidant. It promotes pheomelanin, by converting eumelanin and preventing tyrosinase enzyme. It is small, low molecular weight thiol tripeptide made up of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It occurs in 2 forms: Reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG). GSH is converted to GSSG when it combats with free radicals. Oral antioxidants reduce melanin by scavenging with free radicals produced by UV radiation. They also help boost up immunity and are also helpful in various other systemic conditions.
Glutathione for skin lightening is taken either topical, oral and IV injections. Topically as facewash, creams, soaps. Significant reduction in melanin index is seen usually after 10 weeks. Its oral form has a low bioavailability. It is taken alone or as combination with other skin lightening therapies. It is a quick procedure, and do not require any downtime. Generally, a dose by intravenous 600-1200mg weekly once is recommended for skin lightening. There are also various strengths available. The bioavailability of glutathione is more with IV route than the oral route. Usually not many side effects are seen, but can vary depending on the dose.
Generally, 8-10 sessions are required to see the desired results. The effect of glutathione is limited and thereby it has to be maintained. Every person has a different skin tone, and hence the number and dosage varies from individual to individual.
Glutathione, being a naturally occurring antioxidant also functions as a free radical scavenger protecting the skin from oxidative damage and the deleterious effects of the free radicals such as accelerated skin aging, wrinkles,saggy and tired looking skin, to name a few. There are specialized clinics and cosmetic centers that use glutathione as an active ingredient in a host of skin treatments including chemical peels. In most of the cases, glutathione is used in an injectable form (Glutathione Injections) to ensure its better absorption in the body They are also available in topical forms.
BENEFITS OF GLUTATHIONE:
Strong Antioxidant: Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. This may contribute to a reduction in the risk of chronic diseases.
Anti-Aging Effects: The antioxidant properties of glutathione may play a role in reducing the signs of aging on the skin. By counteracting oxidative stress, it could potentially help minimize the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other age-related skin changes.
Skin Whitening: One of the most widely promoted benefits of glutathione for the skin is its ability to lighten skin tone. Some people use glutathione supplements or undergo intravenous treatments inhibit melanin production, leading to a lighter complexion.
Detoxification: Glutathione is involved in the detoxification of harmful substances, including heavy metals and environmental toxins. It plays a crucial role in the liver's detoxification processes.
Boost Immunity: Glutathione is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. It helps optimize the activity of immune cells, supporting the body’s ability to defend against infections and illnesses.
Collagen Synthesis & Skin Radiance: Glutathione is associated with collagen synthesis, a protein that provides structure to the skin. Collagen is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. By supporting collagen production, glutathione may contribute to skin radiance.
Cell Renewal: Glutathione is involved in the production and repair of cellular components, contributing to overall energy production and cellular function.
Targets Inflammation: Free radicals are reactive molecules that can damage cells and tissues, leading to inflammation. By scavenging these free radicals, glutathione helps protect cells from oxidative stress, potentially reducing inflammation.
Glutathione is quite effective in skin whitening and making your skin glow. Its zero downtime has also bolstered its popularity among those looking for skin whitening treatments.