Glutathione
WELL RESEARCHEDMaster antioxidant | Skin and detoxification
By the INFOPEPTIDOS editorial team · content based on scientific literature.
Updated: August 2026.
Key points
- What it is: antioxidant tripeptide (glutamate-cysteine-glycine) present in every cell.
- Main use: antioxidant, skin brightening and support for liver detoxification.
- Typical dose: 200–600 mg, 1–3 times a week, subcutaneous or intravenous.
- Key result: neutralizes free radicals and regenerates other antioxidants.
- Common effects: well tolerated; possible skin lightening.
- Comparison: master antioxidant; combined with NAD+ and GHK-Cu in skin protocols.
- Status: not FDA-approved for aesthetic use.
Technical data: Molecular formula C10H17N3O6S · Molecular weight 307.33 g/mol. Source: PubChem.
Overview
What is glutathione?
Glutathione is an antioxidant tripeptide produced naturally by the body, regarded as the 'master antioxidant' for its central role in defending against oxidative stress and in liver detoxification. It is researched and used mainly for its effects on skin and cellular protection.
Key benefits
It neutralizes free radicals, regenerates other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, supports liver function and is associated with brighter, more even skin.
Mechanism of action
Its thiol group (from the amino acid cysteine) donates electrons to neutralize reactive oxygen species. It participates in phase II detoxification in the liver and in recycling other antioxidants.
Quick start guide
Dosing protocol
| Route | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subcutaneous | 200–400 mg | 2–3 times/week | In cycles |
| Intravenous | 600 mg | 1–2 times/week | In cycles |
It is often combined with vitamin C. The specific dose must be assessed by a healthcare professional.
🧮 Calculate your exact syringe dose →⚠️ Who should NOT use it
- People with asthma — caution with the inhaled/IV route.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- It can lighten the skin, not always evenly.
- Always under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
What to expect
- Week 1-2: sense of well-being and better recovery.
- Week 2-4: slightly brighter skin.
- Week 4-8: more even skin tone in many users.
- In cycles: maintained with periodic administration.
- Side effects: well tolerated; skin lightening possible.
- Most effective for: skin, antioxidation and detoxification.
Side effects & safety
- Very well tolerated in general.
- Possible mild injection-site reaction.
- Skin lightening (whether desired or not).
- Caution in people with asthma.
- Mild digestive discomfort with the oral route.
- Allergic reaction: rash, itching or swelling.
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
- Unwanted uneven skin lightening.
- Any striking, persistent symptom.
- If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
What is glutathione?
It is an antioxidant tripeptide, the 'master antioxidant', key in defending against oxidative stress and in detoxification.
What is glutathione used for?
Mainly as an antioxidant, for skin brightening and support of liver function.
What is the glutathione dose?
Around 200-600 mg, 1-3 times a week, subcutaneous or IV. The regimen is set by a professional.
Does glutathione lighten skin?
It can lighten skin tone, though the effect is not always even.
What are the side effects?
It is usually very well tolerated; caution in people with asthma with certain routes.
Is glutathione approved?
It is not FDA-approved for aesthetic use; it is used as a supplement.
Research areas
- Antioxidation
- Skin brightening
- Liver detoxification
- Anti-aging
- Recovery
Related peptides
- NAD+ — Energy and longevity coenzyme.
- GHK-Cu — Copper peptide for skin and healing.
- Epitalon — Pineal longevity tetrapeptide.
Related articles
Related topics
- Glutathione and skin
- Glutathione dose
- Glutathione antioxidant
- Glutathione detox
- Glutathione IV
- Glutathione side effects
Summary
What it is: Master antioxidant tripeptide.
How it is researched: SC or IV, 200-600 mg, 1-3 times/week.
Key features: Antioxidant, skin and liver detox. Not FDA-approved for aesthetics.
Related peptides: NAD+, GHK-Cu and Epitalon.
References
- Liu JD et al. (2020). Dietary glutathione supplementation enhances antioxidant activity and protects against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute hepatopancreatic injury and cell apoptosis in Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis. Fish Shellfish Immunol. PubMed · DOI
- Hsiao YF et al. (2024). Glutathione and Selenium Supplementation Attenuates Liver Injury in Diethylnitrosamine-Induced Hepatocarcinogenic Mice by Enhancing Glutathione-Related Antioxidant Capacities. Int J Mol Sci. PubMed · DOI
- Ruparell A et al. (2024). Glycine supplementation can partially restore oxidative stress-associated glutathione deficiency in ageing cats. Br J Nutr. PubMed · DOI
- Benson M et al. (2023). Improved glycemic control either alone, or combined with antioxidant supplementation, fails to restore blood glutathione or markers of oxidative stress in adolescents with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes. Nutr Res. PubMed · DOI
Studies compiled from PubMed for informational purposes; many are preclinical or research-stage and do not constitute medical advice.