What is Glutathione?

Glutathione is an antioxidant that is produced by the body. Remember, an antioxidant is a substance which gives up electrons to neutralize oxidants like free radicals that can impact your health; or rather, antioxidants protect cells from damage when chemicals reacts with oxygen—hence, we typically reach for Vitamin C when we are sick to build up our immunity. Based on the definition of antioxidants and previous posts regarding Vitamins C and E, you can see why glutathione is an important part of your skin care health.

Glutathione levels are usually reduced by lifestyle factors like stress, poor nutrition, pollution, cigarette smoke etc. so supplementation might be necessary. Benefits of taking glutathione include possible skin brightening as it reduces melanin production. Glutathione is a good detoxifier too so I won’t be surprised if it shows up in activated charcoal masks soon. It may also help alleviate symptoms of those with psoriasis and eczema due to its antioxidant properties.

Vitamin C, E, and glutathione are all valuable to add to your diet as antioxidants react to protect each other. Vitamin C can react with damaged Vitamin E and help convert it back to its antioxidant form and Vitamin C can be returned to its antioxidant form by glutathione. Skin care products that capitalize on these three ingredients probably offer you the best value for your money as well as most benefit for your skin!