The Rise of Glutathione: The Antioxidant That Has The Skincare Industry Divided

Glutathione is made from the amino acids glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid. Produced by the liver, it is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in our bodies, playing a crucial role in neutralising harmful free radicals, supporting the immune system, and aiding in detoxification processes. “Glutathione is an antioxidant, traditionally used as an adjuvant for chemotherapy. Because of the toxicity of chemotherapy, glutathione was used as an antioxidant to prevent the oxidative damage of chemo,” explains Dr Kiran Sethi, skincare expert and founder of Isya Aesthetics. 

Glutathione is available as tablets, sublingual form, creams and injections. Picture: Unsplash

Does Glutathione Lighten Your Skin?

Glutathione, available in an oral form, sublingual form, topical applications, and injections, became immensely popular for its perceived effectiveness in changing skin complexion. “Glutathione works on the pathway of tyrosinase, which is where pigmentation is created. So, it can reduce pigmentation theoretically from that pathway. However, data for actual skin lightening is very poor. What we do find is that it does boost your antioxidant level. It does detoxify. In case you tend pigmentation or oxidative damage or excessive tanning due to less antioxidants in your skin, then glutathione can be preventative and more treatment based for that,” adds Dr Sethi.

Made in Heaven showcases how a bride’s glutathione injection treatment goes wrong causing rashes. Picture: Instagram/MadeinheavenTv

Is It Safe To Use Glutathione?

While oral and topical applications are considered safer by dermatologists, intravenous therapies are a strict no, and the long-term efficacy of this ‘wonder drug’ remains questionable. “The oral medication is sold as nutraceuticals. It seems a safer option, but we have seen patients who develop rashes. We are using the topical preparation with other lightening agents in cases with pigmentation or melasma. And, although there are no double-blind trials, it is still a safe option,” adds Dr Nina Madnani, a Mumbai-based consultant dermatologist and specialist in Aesthetic medicine. 

Intravenous glutathione comes with a variety of risks. Picture: Shutterstock

However, she adds that taking intravenous injections to benefit from glutathione’s anti-melanogenic properties is like ‘playing Russian roulette’. “Many in India are willing to risk their health so much that they take it (Glutathione) intravenously, and it is frightening because technicians are coming to people’s homes and giving them intravenous glutathione. You don’t know who is going to develop a side effect. The injectable form became very popular because of the instant change in the complexion. Still, because of its side effects, a warning was issued by the Philippines Medical Board, the FDA USA, and the British Medical Association. One of the side effects was fatal, which was toxic epidermal necrolysis, or Steven Johnson syndrome, and hence it was banned for use as a lightening agent,” Madnani shares. 

Do Glutathione Pills Work?

As the interest in using glutathione for ‘brighter skin’ grows among Indians, there has been a proliferation of brands that sell magic in a bottle: glutathione capsules. But do they work? Dr. Chiranjiv Chhabra, director and chief dermatologist at Alive Wellness Clinics, shares his opinion. “When it comes to oral supplements, they can be convenient, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Some individuals may experience minor digestive discomfort or allergies, especially if they have underlying health issues. Glutathione pills are trending due to their ease of use, but their effectiveness can vary depending on factors like formulation and the body’s chemistry. If you’re looking for alternatives, talking to a dermatologist can open up options like skin injections or Mesotherapy, which includes glutathione for skin rejuvenation. As one explores glutathione’s potential benefits, one must remember to have meaningful conversations beforehand. This ensures that one integrates it into their skincare routine to suit their specific needs and circumstances, creating a well-rounded approach to healthy skin.”

Many pills with glutathione promise fairer complexion to consumers. Picture: Unsplash

How Should One Use Glutathione?

As with all invasive treatments, Glutathione treatments come with their benefits and pitfalls. The best way forward is to consult a specialist. “Glutathione has to be done under the supervision of a doctor. The doctor has to see what dosing is right for you, has to track you, and it should not be done interminably. I believe in no more than six sessions at a time, dosing dependent on the person, and then seeing our results over three months. I do not believe in skin fairness or skin lightening. I believe in improving the health of the skin and of the body,” opines Dr Sethi.