Quick answer
Occurs naturally in skin; Defends against visible effects of environmental damage; Offers restoring and tone-improving benefits in topical skin care; Composed of three amino acids Key benefits: Anti-Aging.
Glutathione
Updated
Glycine, N-(N-L-.gamma.-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl)-
Purpose
This ingredient, which occurs naturally in skin, has potent antioxidant benefits and serves as a skin-restoring, dullness brightening ingredient in topical products.
Rating
BEST
Category
Antioxidant
INCI Purpose
REDUCING
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Occurs naturally in skin
Defends against visible effects of environmental damage
Offers restoring and tone-improving benefits in topical skin care
Composed of three amino acids
Article
Glutathione is a powerful, non-enzymatic antioxidant which naturally occurs in the skin where it serves to help defend it against the visible effects of environmental damage. The gradual decline of the natural supply of glutathione in the body is believed to be a key marker of many outward signs of aging.
Glutathione is a tripeptide comprised of three amino acids (cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine), which work in unison when used topically to brighten a dull complexion while offering skin-restoring benefits. It has value for visibly fading discolorations when used in a 2% concentration due to its ability to interrupt an enzyme within skin’s surface that triggers hyperpigmentation.
Glutathione has also been shown to help stabilize and enhance the performance of other antioxidants such as vitamin C, even when used in low concentrations.
References