Glutathione (inci)

Glutathione (γ-glutamyl-cysteinylglycine) is a substance that can be used in cosmetic formulations. Glutathione acts as a reducing agent (reduces oxygen or adds hydrogen and thus changes the chemical nature of a substance).

Glutathione is a small, low molecular weight, water-soluble thiol tripeptide consisting of three amino acids (glutamate, cysteine and glycine). Glutathione is a ubiquitous compound with a biologically active sulfhydryl group, which is contributed by the cysteine moiety and functions as the active part of the molecule. This sulfhydryl group enables interaction with a variety of biochemical systems, hence the abbreviation "GSH" for its active form. Glutathione is one of the most active antioxidant systems in human physiology (Sonthalia S et al. 2016).

1. Sonthalia S et al. (2016) Glutathione as a skin whitening agent: Facts, myths, evidence and controversies. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 822: 62-72.