Exploring the Safety and Efficacy of Glutathione Supplementation for Skin Lightening: A Narrative Review

Abstract

The rising demand for skin-lightening products has brought glutathione, a tripeptide with antioxidant properties and melanogenesis-regulating effects, into focus as a potentially safer alternative to conventional agents. This narrative review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral, topical, and intravenous glutathione in skin-lightening therapies. Oral administration shows significant but variable decreases in melanin levels with limited side effects. Topical formulations provide good-level melanin reduction and skin texture improvement but with varying sustainability. Intravenous glutathione, although having rapid action, is associated with serious safety concerns like anaphylaxis and hepatotoxicity, further aggravated by a lack of standardized dosing protocols. Current evidence supports glutathione's potential as a depigmenting agent but underscores the need for rigorous, large-scale clinical trials to establish long-term safety, optimal dosing, and standardized applications. Until such data are available, clinicians and consumers should exercise caution to ensure safe and effective dermatological practices, particularly with intravenous use.

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• Glutathione