Glutathione

What is it?

A tripeptide antioxidant naturally produced by the body, marketed in skincare (oral, topical and intravenous forms) for skin-brightening/lightening effects.

What does it do?

Commonly used as a skin-lightening/brightening active. According to PubMed, a narrative review evaluating oral, topical and intravenous glutathione for skin lightening found oral administration produces significant but variable melanin reduction with limited side effects, and topical formulations provide good-level melanin reduction with variable sustainability -- intravenous use carries serious safety concerns (anaphylaxis, hepatotoxicity) and is explicitly flagged as needing caution, a real safety distinction worth knowing before choosing a delivery form.

Local suppliers (Coming soon)

We're building a directory of South African suppliers and manufacturers who stock this ingredient — check back soon.

Sources