GLUTATHIONE SKIN BENEFITS: THE INGREDIENT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Looking for the new skin care ingredient on the beauty block? Enter: glutathione.
Dubbed the ‘master antioxidant’ by many, the powerhouse is renowned for its powerful and proven results. From detoxifying and brightening dull complexions to banishing the appearance of fine lines and leaving you with a luminous glow, glutathione skin benefits are endless – making it the new buzzword you need to know.
Paying homage to the covetable compound, we caught up with Perricone MD's
WHAT IS GLUTATHIONE
Before we get into the nitty gritty of the glutathione skin benefits, it’s important to understand what it actually is (science caps at the ready). “Glutathione is the master antioxidant found inside of the human body. In its natural state it’s is a water-soluble tri-peptide that helps with bodily processes and functions” explains
But that’s not all, glutathione benefits the skin too. As a potent, non-enzymatic antioxidant, it defends against environmental damage by blocking the enzyme that triggers melanin production to restore the skin’s surface and brighten complexions. “It’s also believed the slow depletion of glutathione within our skin (which unfortunately, speeds up rapidly during menopause) is a leading cause of visible signs of ageing.”
IS GLUTATHIONE HEALTHY FOR SKIN
In short, yes. As a natural component of skin, the powerhouse is healthy when applied topically – AKA through your skin care regime. Plus, it can also be served up as an oral supplement to target uneven skin tone. “We refer to it as ‘injectable-like results, without the injection’. With consistent usage, glutathione skin benefits can include visibly plumping the look of deep lines and creases caused by repetitive facial movements, the smoothing thin, fragile skin and promoting a more even toned complexion.”
GLUTATHIONE SKIN BENEFITS
A versatile ingredient that promotes a healthier, brighter complexion, glutathione skin benefits are endless. Keep scrolling to see just some of glutathione skin benefits…
Brightening
Glutathione prevents the activity of an enzyme called tyrosinase to reduce your melanin production and help lighten dark spots to promote a more even sin tone. What’s more, it detoxifies the skin to help remove impurities that can contribute to a dull complexion.
Hydrating
While glutathione is not a hydrating agent, it does play a supportive role in locking in your skin’s moisture. Not only does it protect cells from oxidative – stress that can lead to dryness – but it helps maintain the skin barrier, which is crucial for preventing water loss.
Improves skin’s elasticity
Playing a vital role in collagen synthesis (a protein essential for firmness), glutathione supports tissue repair and regeneration. This aids in maintaining your skin’s elasticity, in addition to reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Reduces the look of puffiness
Through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, glutathione reduces the look of puffiness, particularly around the eye area. Neutralising free radicals, it minimises swelling caused by environmental stressors (we’re talking, UV rays, weather, pollution) and by supporting skin hydration, helps maintain skin that’s less prone to puffiness.
Supports the skin’s barrier
Enhancing the skin’s protective functions while promoting overall health, glutathione banishes harmful substances that can disrupt barrier function. This not only helps prevent transepidermal water loss, but also enhances the skin's ability to retain moisture. Overall, incorporating glutathione into skin care routines can significantly contribute to the strength and stability of the skin barrier.
HOW TO INCORPORATE GLUTATHIONE IN YOUR SKIN CARE ROUTINE
Now we understand the glutathione skin benefits, you might be wondering how can we add it into your routine? Well, we come baring good news, adding glutathione products into your regime is easy. Rather than counteracting with any other brightening components (we’re talking vitamin C, licorice or azelaic acid), this iconic ingredient actually enhances the performance of other antioxidants.
“The best way to incorporate it into your routine is topically through advanced skin care. We have taken traditional glutathione and enhanced the molecule to become fat-soluble, this means skin cells are able to absorb it more easily and it can work more effectively. And as for how often to use it, I would say every day if you can via your day and night creams, serums and eye care - my favourite is the Eyelid Lift Serum.”
BEST GLUTATHIONE SKIN CARE
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GLUTATHIONE SKIN BENEFITS FAQs
Is glutathione better than retinol?
Glutathione and retinol work in different ways. While retinol works hard to target pre-existing fine lines, glutathione prevents them by protecting the skin against oxidative damage which leads to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
How long does glutathione take to work on skin?
Depending on what results you’re looking for, glutathione can take between 2 to 8 weeks to work. For those wanting to reduce the appearance of breakouts and a smooth sign off, it can work in as little as 2-3 weeks. But for those seeking a more even tone, it could take up to 2-3 months.
Which is better, glutathione or collagen?
Similar to retinol, collagen and glutathione offer unique benefit, making it hard to compare them as it depends on your skin goals. If you’re looking to quench your complexion’s thirst and avoid premature ageing, we would suggest utilising collagen, as it directly supports the skin’s structure and moisturiser levels. However, if you’re looking to detox and brighten then glutathione will be your go to ingredient as it brings vibrancy to the skin and protects it from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
So, now you have everything you need to know about glutathione skin benefits, it’s time to pick your new powerhouse formula and enjoy seeing its plumping, brightening results in as little as two weeks!
Cult Beauty’s Senior SEO Copywriter, Trifonia started out in the industry when bold brows were just becoming a ‘thing’, and shares a passion for all things fashion and beauty. Currently embracing her curly girl journey (after endless years of straightening her strands), she is finally reverting to her natural ways! When Triffy isn’t busy testing out the latest curl-saving solutions, you’ll find her binging the latest reality TV show or on a long walk listening to her ever-evolving country music playlist.
