Glutathione Skin Booster

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant comprised of three amino acids – cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. It is produced naturally by the liver and is found in every cell of the human body. Glutathione plays several critical roles in the body including:

1. It plays important roles in antioxidant defense, nutrient metabolism, and regulation of cellular events.
2. Studies show glutathione supplementation may improve antioxidant capacity and mitigate exercise-induced oxidative stress when given intravenously or by inhalation.
3. Glutathione, especially in its reduced form (GSH), has been shown to have skin-lightening and antimelanogenic effects when taken orally, applied topically, or given intravenously

• Detoxification:

  Glutathione binds to toxins and helps eliminate them from the body. This includes environmental toxins as well as waste products produced naturally during metabolism.

• Antioxidant Defense:

  Glutathione neutralizes free radicals and reactive oxygen species that can damage cells and DNA. This helps protect the body from oxidative stress.

• Immune Function:

  Glutathione is needed for proper functioning of lymphocytes and production of cytokines to support immunity. It also helps regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis.

• Mitochondrial Health:

  Glutathione is required for mitochondrial energy production and membrane stability. Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” that provide energy to cells.

• Cell Health:

  As a major antioxidant, glutathione protects cells from damage and promotes tissue repair and growth. It is especially important for brain, liver, and lung health.

• Skin Health:

  Glutathione protects skin cells from UV damage and promotes collagen production for healthy, youthful looking skin.

Glutathione levels decline with age and are also depleted by factors like poor diet, chronic illness, medications, infections, and environmental toxins. This reduction in glutathione is associated with increased oxidative stress and cell damage over time.

Glutathione injections can help raise glutathione levels throughout the body. Unlike oral glutathione which has poor bioavailability, injections provide 100% absorption into the bloodstream for maximum benefits.

Benefits

Regular glutathione administration can provide numerous benefits:

• Powerful Antioxidant Effects: Glutathione injections replenish the body’s master antioxidant to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. This provides whole body antioxidant support.
• Detoxification: Increased glutathione improves the liver’s capacity to bind and eliminate toxins, drugs, pollutants, and metabolic byproducts. This supports natural detoxification pathways.
• Immune System Support: Glutathione bolsters immune cell function and cytokine activity for improved resistance against infections. It also modulates inflammation.
• Slows Skin Aging: Glutathione combats oxidative stress that damages skin cells, promotes collagen production, and reduces hyperpigmentation for younger, healthier looking skin.
• Improves Cellular Health: Increased glutathione protects cells throughout the body from free radical damage, especially in high demand organs like the brain, eyes, heart, and lungs. This supports tissue repair and optimal function.
• Increases Energy: Glutathione enhances mitochondrial function and energy production to combat fatigue and improve exercise performance.
• Alleviates Joint Discomfort: The anti-inflammatory effects of glutathione can help ease joint pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
• Supports Liver Health: Glutathione optimizes liver detoxification pathways and protects liver cells from toxins and oxidative stress. This benefits those with fatty liver disease or chemical exposures.
• Improves Mental Focus: By protecting brain cells from oxidative damage, glutathione can help improve mental clarity and focus. It also supports neurological health.
• Enhances Mood: Some studies suggest glutathione may help alleviate anxiety and depression by combating inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Strengthens Immunity: Glutathione stimulates production of lymphocytes and cytokines to bolster immune defenses against infections.

Pros

• Highly absorbable form of glutathione
• Provides whole-body antioxidant effects
• Supports natural detoxification capacity
• Strengthens immune defenses
• Protects cells and tissues throughout the body
• Improves energy and exercise performance
• Promotes youthful, healthy looking skin
• Safe and well-tolerated by most people

Cons

• Requires intramuscular or subcutaneous injections at home or at a healthcare provider
• Not a standalone cure, requires additional healthy lifestyle habits
• Potential mild side effects like nausea or headache
• Not recommended for those with asthma or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
• Repeated injections required to sustain benefits
• Can get expensive

Potential side effects of glutathione injections:

• Nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach (common GI side effects)
• Skin rashes, hives, allergic reactions
• Breathing problems, chest pain (rare)
• Hair loss (rare)
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis (rare but serious skin reaction)
• Kidney dysfunction (rare, with very high doses)
• Irritation, redness, swelling at injection site
• Asthma exacerbation (with inhaled glutathione)
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome (rare but serious mucous membrane disorder)

Counterindications

Glutathione injections are contraindicated or used with caution in the following circumstances:

• Asthma – glutathione may exacerbate asthma symptoms in some individuals
• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency – glutathione may cause hemolysis in affected individuals
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding – safety has not been established, though no harms reported
• Chemotherapy – glutathione may interfere with some chemotherapy drugs
• Recent surgery – glutathione may affect clotting factors and increase bleeding risk
• Liver dysfunction – high glutathione doses could potentially worsen liver impairment

Administration, Dosage, Storage

• Glutathione injections can be administered subcutaneously, where the compound is absorbed into the bloodstream. This method is more effective than oral supplements at raising glutathione levels.
• Subcutaneous injections are given under the skin, typically in the abdomen, thighs, or upper arms. The injection site should be rotated to prevent irritation.
• Glutathione injections can be self-administered at home with a prescription from your doctor. Proper aseptic technique should be used.

Dosage

• Dosage can vary depending on individual needs. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and frequency based on factors like your health conditions.
• A common dosage is 100-600 mg, administered 1-6 times per week. Courses typically last for several weeks.
• Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage. Do not increase dosage or frequency without medical supervision.

Lyophilized Glutathione Stability at Room Temperature

Lyophilized glutathione, which is freeze-dried, is notably stable when kept at room temperature, especially when stored in a desiccated environment. Even though the exact shelf life at room temperature isn’t specified, when sealed and kept moisture-free, the lyophilized powder is projected to remain stable for at least 6-12 months.

Stability of Reconstituted (mixed) Glutathione

• At room temperature, the reconstituted glutathione retains its potency for about 8 hours.
• If refrigerated (at 2-8°C), its shelf life extends to 2 months.
• For longer preservation, it’s advised to aliquot and freeze the reconstituted glutathione, where it can remain stable for 1-2 months.

Storage Recommendations for Lyophilized (non-mixed) Glutathione

While lyophilized glutathione is inherently stable at room temperature, it’s essential to store it in a sealed, moisture-free container away from direct heat and light. Refrigeration can offer an added layer of assurance for extended stability, but it isn’t a strict requirement.