Glutathione
(2S)-2-amino-4-{[(1R)-1-[(carboxymethyl)carbamoyl]-2-sulfanylethyl]carbamoyl}butanoic acid; gamma-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine
Endogenous tripeptide antioxidant; oral IV glutathione used for skin lightening is unapproved and flagged by FDA; topical efficacy for brightening is debated due to limited skin penetration; safe for topical cosmetic use.
Function & Common Use
Antioxidant / Skin-Brightening Agent / Skin-Conditioning Agent
Antioxidants
Brightening serums, skin-lightening treatments, antioxidant creams, face masks
Biotechnology / Synthetic
Concentration Limits
None
None
None
None
Format restriction: None
Baby restriction: No
Pregnancy: No
IFRA: No
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glutathione safe to use in skincare?
Glutathione has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Endogenous tripeptide antioxidant; oral IV glutathione used for skin lightening is unapproved and flagged by FDA; topical efficacy for brightening is debated due to limited skin penetration; safe for topical cosmetic use.
Is Glutathione allowed in India?
Glutathione is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is None.
What is Glutathione used for in cosmetics?
Glutathione functions as: Antioxidant / Skin-Brightening Agent / Skin-Conditioning Agent. It is commonly found in: Brightening serums, skin-lightening treatments, antioxidant creams, face masks.
Can Glutathione cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Glutathione has an allergen flag (No). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Glutathione safe for babies?
Glutathione has baby/child restrictions: No. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: None
Identifiers
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