Benefits
When to use
Works with
Caution
Dermatologist science score 
What is glutathione?
Glutathione has gained popularity as a sought-after ingredient in skincare formulations due to its multifaceted benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, depigmenting, and anti-aging properties. Recognized for promoting healthy skin, this ingredient is featured in a diverse array of skincare products, ranging from face washes and creams to lotions, gels, serums, & dietary supplements.
Its rising prominence in skincare formulations is attributed to its robust antioxidant properties, known for brightening skin tone, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and enhancing overall skin health. It is best combined with procedures such as lasers & peels as well as skincare to reduce the production of melanin (pigment).
What can glutathione do for melasma?
As of 2024, there are small studies to suggest that topical or oral formulations of glutathione can help reduce melasma severity. It is best employed as adjunctive therapy to medical management & works best when combined with lasers & or chemical peels.
How good is it in practical terms?
For monotherapy (as a supplement for those who want to avoid medical therapy), its effects are marginal at best.
The Melasma Clinic prescribes oral glutathione as part of a combination approach, often in combination with polypodium. It can also be considered in cases of resistant melasma or recurrent melasma. In our experience, it can be marginally effective in some cases.
How do we use glutathione in our melasma programs?
In some cases, we employ it orally as part of our pigmentation removal programs for melasma.
Procedure of choice: Pico laser or novel superficial chemical peels (Vi Precision Plus, Dermamelan, Cosmelan). This depends on the level of melasma pigment.
Supplementation: Glutathione 500 mg daily, polypodium extract 480 mg twice daily.
Photoprotection: against UVB, UVA, UVA1, + blue light. Shields against IR radiation.
Medical therapy & topicals: tyrosinase inhibitors such as azelaic acid, arbutin, niacinamide, retinol, liquorice root extract, botanicals, cysteamine, & novel blockers.
How do we use glutathione supplementation in our skin lightening program?
Glutathione orally is prescribed as part of our skin lightening program. In most, but not all cases we can achieve 1-2 shades of lightening with combination therapy. Skin lightening works best on the face & neck areas.
Procedures: Novel combination peels (TCA, retinoic acid, pigment correctors) 1-3 sessions or picosecond lasers (typically 4 sessions).
Supplementation: Oral glutathione 500 mg daily, in addition to polypodium extract 480 mg twice a day.
Skin care: Ascorbic acid, azelaic acid, AHA pulsed weekly.
Skin lightening, contrary to advertised claims, is not permanent. Most patients achieve lightning that lasts months to one year, however this is highly variable, depending on genetics, hormonal influx & sun exposure.
What form of glutathione is best?
There are 3 ways to take glutathione, of which oral supplementation of up to 500 mg is best.
IV glutathione: has the highest side effects (read more), must be conducted 1-2 times a week, costs upwards of $900 per infusion, & lasts a maximum of 6 to 8 weeks.
Topical glutathione: topical formulations are typically 1-2 % glutathione. Frequency is twice daily. The effects are not as good as oral supplementation, & we do not routinely add this to your melasma or skin lightening program.
The primary reason is that for most cases we employ adjunctive topicals (such as pigment correctors). This can place your skin at additional stress, resulting in irritation. On this basis we prefer oral supplementation.
How good is it as an antioxidant?
Playing a pivotal role in shielding cells from oxidative stress, the potent antioxidant glutathione holds significance. Within the skin, it serves to eliminate free radicals and provides defence against environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution.
Free radicals, highly reactive molecules, pose a threat to cells and accelerate aging processes. When these radicals accumulate in the skin, they can inflict premature aging and various skin ailments by damaging cellular components such as DNA and lipids.
It steps in to neutralize free radicals, converting them into harmless molecules that can be safely eliminated from the body. Its antioxidant properties are particularly notable as it has the capability to regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which are essential for skin health.
In addition to its direct antioxidant effects, glutathione stimulates the body’s other antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase and catalase, enhancing their efficacy. These enzymes contribute to overall skin health and play a role in preventing cell damage caused by oxidative stress. Numerous studies have highlighted the beneficial antioxidant properties of it.
For instance, research has shown that topically applying it to the skin can shield skin cells from oxidative damage induced by UV radiation. Furthermore, supplementation with glutathione has been found to enhance skin hydration, elasticity, and overall appearance.
By scavenging free radicals and bolstering other antioxidant enzymes, glutathione aids the body in defending against damage caused by environmental stressors, promoting healthy and radiant skin.
Retinoids are useful in some, but not all cases of melasma & pigmentation
.
👉Concept: though they are commonly prescribed in many combinations (eg. Triluma, Kligman’s, modified Kligman’s, stand alone ranging from retinol to retinoic acid), the rate limiting factor is skin irritation. Potentially this means less of what really matters- use of other more useful pigment correctors
.
☄️👌🏻Selective & gradual introduction of retinoids: Your clinician will discuss the timing of retinoids, in addition to the class & concentration, based upon your skin’s irritant threshold & background photodamage, taking into account co-prescription of other ‘skincare actives’
.
🎬Action: Brisbane patients, book a consultation with Alison @cutis_dermatology Sydney, few spots available next month, link in the bio.🙏🏼
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney #retinol #retinoids #retinolskincare #skincare #skincaretips #pigmentationtips #drdavinlim #davinlim #triluma
Retinoids are useful in some, but not all cases of melasma & pigmentation
.
👉Concept: though they are commonly prescribed in many combinations (eg. Triluma, Kligman’s, modified Kligman’s, stand alone ranging from retinol to retinoic acid), the rate limiting factor is skin irritation. Potentially this means less of what really matters- use of other more useful pigment correctors
.
☄️👌🏻Selective & gradual introduction of retinoids: Your clinician will discuss the timing of retinoids, in addition to the class & concentration, based upon your skin’s irritant threshold & background photodamage, taking into account co-prescription of other ‘skincare actives’
.
🎬Action: Brisbane patients, book a consultation with Alison @cutis_dermatology Sydney, few spots available next month, link in the bio.🙏🏼
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney #retinol #retinoids #retinolskincare #skincare #skincaretips #pigmentationtips #drdavinlim #davinlim #triluma
Your clinician will guide you through your specific protocol & pigment corrector. This only applies to potentially irritating agents, it is not a blanket guide for all topicals/pigment correctors
.
Still sensitive, even if short contact?
.
1️⃣Use half the amount (dilute in moisturizer)
.
2️⃣ moisturiser before & after
.
3️⃣Titrate use, ie. skip a day….or three
.
4️⃣Test spot for allergy (very rare, skin irritation more common). Use a tiny amount, apply to the inner arm, photograph 📸the reaction taking note of the time it takes to develop irritation. Show this to your treating clinician to interpret & they will guide you. Irritation is different from allergic reactions💯
.
👉🙏🏼Addition of topicals will be guided by your treating clinician, based upon your skin sensitivity, current topical use & treatment (peels vs lasers). Timing is important
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney
Your clinician will guide you through your specific protocol & pigment corrector. This only applies to potentially irritating agents, it is not a blanket guide for all topicals/pigment correctors
.
Still sensitive, even if short contact?
.
1️⃣Use half the amount (dilute in moisturizer)
.
2️⃣ moisturiser before & after
.
3️⃣Titrate use, ie. skip a day….or three
.
4️⃣Test spot for allergy (very rare, skin irritation more common). Use a tiny amount, apply to the inner arm, photograph 📸the reaction taking note of the time it takes to develop irritation. Show this to your treating clinician to interpret & they will guide you. Irritation is different from allergic reactions💯
.
👉🙏🏼Addition of topicals will be guided by your treating clinician, based upon your skin sensitivity, current topical use & treatment (peels vs lasers). Timing is important
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma #dermatologistsydney
Dr Vee Mang is an Australian trained physician with extensive experience in skin, having worked in the field of dermatology. She’s a cosmetic physician who works with Dr Van Park & Dr Davin Lim in Woollahra, Sydney
.
👉Her interests: Pigmentation, neurotoxin, acne management, anti-aging
.
📖Bookings: Open for consultation, send your expression of interest at our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Yes, an expression of interest is required for the Sydney clinic.
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma
Dr Vee Mang is an Australian trained physician with extensive experience in skin, having worked in the field of dermatology. She’s a cosmetic physician who works with Dr Van Park & Dr Davin Lim in Woollahra, Sydney
.
👉Her interests: Pigmentation, neurotoxin, acne management, anti-aging
.
📖Bookings: Open for consultation, send your expression of interest at our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Yes, an expression of interest is required for the Sydney clinic.
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #melasma
Dr Van Park is the co-founder of The Melasma Clinic. She’s a key opinion leader in the field of aesthetic injectables with her innovative & novel injection techniques with neuromodulators & soft tissue injectables
.
👉Rumor has it that Davin Lim fixed her melasma & hence why she founded this clinic.
.
📖Bookings: She’s closed her books, but occasional consults may arise
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #drvanpark #dvp #clinicdvp #cosmeticphysician
Dr Van Park is the co-founder of The Melasma Clinic. She’s a key opinion leader in the field of aesthetic injectables with her innovative & novel injection techniques with neuromodulators & soft tissue injectables
.
👉Rumor has it that Davin Lim fixed her melasma & hence why she founded this clinic.
.
📖Bookings: She’s closed her books, but occasional consults may arise
.
The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#themelasmaclinic #drvanpark #dvp #clinicdvp #cosmeticphysician
Davin Lim is a technician & co-founder. He comes up with the diagnosis, management plan & settings, nothing more. He fixed Van’s melasma & the rest is history☄️
.
👉In store: working on AI for ‘virtual Davin’, namely programmed AI bot for Q and A, coupled with AI video & virtual voice. Bot Q & A will be released in the next few weeks, virtual video & voice within 6 months (hopefully)
.
📖Bookings: handful of appointments available in Sydney every month, expression of interest via melasmaclinic.com.au
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#davinlim #drdavinlim #themelasmaclinic #dermatologistsydney #dermatologyclinicsydney
Davin Lim is a technician & co-founder. He comes up with the diagnosis, management plan & settings, nothing more. He fixed Van’s melasma & the rest is history☄️
.
👉In store: working on AI for ‘virtual Davin’, namely programmed AI bot for Q and A, coupled with AI video & virtual voice. Bot Q & A will be released in the next few weeks, virtual video & voice within 6 months (hopefully)
.
📖Bookings: handful of appointments available in Sydney every month, expression of interest via melasmaclinic.com.au
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#davinlim #drdavinlim #themelasmaclinic #dermatologistsydney #dermatologyclinicsydney
Hori is a common cause of pigmentation in Asian females
.
🔫Treatments: straightforward, it is only a matter of persistence & correct end points. 4-8 sessions. We can get the job done with older tech, but hypo & hyper pigmentation rates are slightly higher compared to pico. 1064 for true dermal Hori, 755 for the recently described mixed Hori
.
👍🏻Outlook: good. They rarely recur, remission expected in most, unlike melasma. The caveat is that melasma + Hori are commonly seen together
.
🎬Action: Consult our clinicians @the_melasma_clinic in Brisbane or Sydney. For Sydney appointments please fill out an expression of interest form on our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Brisbane patients, book an appointment with Alison @cutis_dermatology 💯
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#hori #ethnicskin #pigmentationtreatment #skinlightening #drdavinlim #davinlim #dermatologistsydney #picoway #picosure
Hori is a common cause of pigmentation in Asian females
.
🔫Treatments: straightforward, it is only a matter of persistence & correct end points. 4-8 sessions. We can get the job done with older tech, but hypo & hyper pigmentation rates are slightly higher compared to pico. 1064 for true dermal Hori, 755 for the recently described mixed Hori
.
👍🏻Outlook: good. They rarely recur, remission expected in most, unlike melasma. The caveat is that melasma + Hori are commonly seen together
.
🎬Action: Consult our clinicians @the_melasma_clinic in Brisbane or Sydney. For Sydney appointments please fill out an expression of interest form on our website, melasmaclinic.com.au Brisbane patients, book an appointment with Alison @cutis_dermatology 💯
.
😎Dr Davin Lim
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#hori #ethnicskin #pigmentationtreatment #skinlightening #drdavinlim #davinlim #dermatologistsydney #picoway #picosure
IPL is awesome for non-melasma pigmentation but is often a cause of flare ups for melasma pigment. The reason is the excessive heat that is often associated with IPL. Exception to this rule is the use of exact filters in correct pulse widths with co-prescription of pigment inhibitors- medical therapy. It can be done, but the threshold for error is very thin💯
.
👉This patient: treated with old fashioned dermal toning with nano-lasers, Spectra by Lutronic, in addition to medical therapy
.
📆👉Timeline: 10 weeks. Pico lasers offer faster resolution, if performed correctly.
.
Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#drdavinlim #IPL #IPLtreatment #melasma #melasmacure #melasmasurvivor #melasmaskincare #themelasmaclinic #sydneydermatologist
IPL is awesome for non-melasma pigmentation but is often a cause of flare ups for melasma pigment. The reason is the excessive heat that is often associated with IPL. Exception to this rule is the use of exact filters in correct pulse widths with co-prescription of pigment inhibitors- medical therapy. It can be done, but the threshold for error is very thin💯
.
👉This patient: treated with old fashioned dermal toning with nano-lasers, Spectra by Lutronic, in addition to medical therapy
.
📆👉Timeline: 10 weeks. Pico lasers offer faster resolution, if performed correctly.
.
Dr Davin Lim
Dermatologist
Brisbane | Sydney🇦🇺
.
#drdavinlim #IPL #IPLtreatment #melasma #melasmacure #melasmasurvivor #melasmaskincare #themelasmaclinic #sydneydermatologist
Dermamelan & Cosmelan peels have arrived 💯
.
👉Novel peels: are a good option for primarily epidermal melasma and superficial pigmentation, albeit a downtime of 6-12 days
.
👌🏻Employ peels based upon diagnostic features of pigment and allowed recovery of the patient
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic Sydney-Brisbane 🇦🇺
#melasma #cosmelan2 #cosmelanmask #cosmelanpeel
Dermamelan & Cosmelan peels have arrived 💯
.
👉Novel peels: are a good option for primarily epidermal melasma and superficial pigmentation, albeit a downtime of 6-12 days
.
👌🏻Employ peels based upon diagnostic features of pigment and allowed recovery of the patient
.
🏡The Melasma Clinic Sydney-Brisbane 🇦🇺
#melasma #cosmelan2 #cosmelanmask #cosmelanpeel
How good is glutathione at lightening skin?
Glutathione offers effectiveness in achieving a more luminous and uniform complexion by diminishing melanin production and encouraging an even skin tone, especially when combined with procedures such as lasers & novel chemical peels. In some, but not all cases, we can achieve 1-2 shades lighter, especially on the face & neck area.
Melanin, the pigment responsible for skin coloration, can lead to dark spots and hyperpigmentation when overproduced. Glutathione aids in preventing the formation of these dark spots by inhibiting melanin production, resulting in a fairer and more balanced complexion.
Integration of glutathione into your skincare routine can be achieved through topical formulations including ascorbic acid, tocopherol, ferulic acid, botanicals, azelaic acid & alpha-arbutin, which enhance the efficacy of oral glutathione.
It’s essential to acknowledge that while consistent use of glutathione may contribute to a fairer, brighter complexion, visible results may take several weeks or months. Various factors, including the severity of hyperpigmentation, skin type, and overall health, can influence individual responses.
For personalized treatment recommendations concerning skin concerns or persistent hyperpigmentation, consult our clinicians in Brisbane & Sydney. They can offer tailored guidance on achieving a brighter and more uniform complexion and assist in selecting the most suitable approach based on individual needs.
What can glutathione do for my skin health & complexion?
In addition to its ability to reduce pigmentation, treat melasma, & improve skin glow & luminosity, glutathione offers several other benefits for skin health:
- Photoprotective role, UV Protection: Research suggests that glutathione provides protection against UV radiation, a known contributor to skin damage and the risk of skin cancer. Its antioxidant properties help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure, thereby reducing oxidative damage to the skin. Caution: though this is the case, the actual protection achieved is very small, as compared to sunscreens. It is always adjunctive therapy, never monotherapy.
- Hydration: This aids in improving skin hydration and preventing dryness, resulting in a more radiant and youthful appearance. It supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier and may stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid, a natural humectant that retains moisture in the skin. Other more powerful ingredients include hyaluronic acid & glycerine. Hydration & barrier function is important in the treatment of melasma as topical pigment correctors are frequently irritating.
- Anti-Aging: By reducing oxidative stress and skin inflammation, glutathione can help slow down the aging process. This can help delay the onset of wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. Note: the effects are mild to modest as compared to injectables & topical retinoids.
To maximize the benefits of glutathione for skin health, it should be incorporated into a comprehensive skincare regimen that includes essential elements such as sunscreen, gentle cleansing, and a healthy diet.
It can be integrated into your skincare routine with topical products like serums, creams, and masks containing glutathione or its precursors, along with other beneficial ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid.
How do I integrate skin care with glutathione supplementation?
To enhance your skin’s glow, reduce unwanted pigment & treat melasma there are numerous other ingredients and products that can complement the use of it in skincare.
Consider the following:
- Ascorbic acid. Similar to glutathione, vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting the skin against free radical damage. It also plays a crucial role in collagen production, contributing to improved skin firmness and elasticity. Look for concentrations of 10 to 20%.
- Retinoids: Retinoids, such as retinol, are vitamin A derivatives known for their ability to diminish the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. They promote collagen production and enhance skin cell turnover. Be guided by your clinician as to the timing of retinols.
- Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide enhances skin hydration, reduces inflammation, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also regulates sebum production and improves overall skin tone and texture. A good formulation that contains niacinamide is MelaB3 by La Roche Posay. It retails at $79 AUD and can be purchased in most pharmacies.
- Azelaic acid: Helps reduce inflammation & has a mildly suppressive role on pigment producing cells. It is well tolerated by most & can be used indefinitely.
- Prescriptive tyrosinase inhibitors. This includes cysteamine & high strength topical retinoids. The exact formulation is determined by your skin type, pigment depth & skin sensitivities. Your clinical will guide you.
- Sunscreen: Essential for skincare, sunscreen protects the skin from UV radiation damage. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 and remember to reapply every two hours when outdoors. A tinted sunscreen is best as it has iron oxides, a key component to protect against visible blue light.
- Polypodium extract: this natural ingredient is derived from plants & functions as an antioxidant. The recommended dose is 480 mg twice daily.
Incorporating these ingredients into your skincare routine can complement the benefits of glutathione, promoting healthy and radiant skin. Ensure to select products suitable for your skin type and concerns and consult with our nurses and dermal therapists at The Melasma Clinic for personalized recommendations.
What are some helpful steps you can take to incorporate glutathione into your skincare routine?
Here are some guidelines to optimize the advantages of incorporating of this into your skincare routine:
- Combine procedures: Glutathione tablets pair well with procedures to help reduce pigmentation. They include lasers (pico lasers) as well as chemical peels. These procedures are aimed at fast clearance of pigment, whilst it orally maintains the long term results.
- Opt for Trusted Brands: When selecting skincare products containing glutathione, prioritize reputable brands with clinically tested ingredients and a proven track record of effectiveness.
- Consistency is Key: To fully experience the benefits of glutathione for your skin, it’s essential to use products containing this ingredient consistently over time. It takes 4 to 8 weeks before results (if any) are seen. Depending on the formulation, up to twice a day glutathione supplementation is recommended.
- Synergistic Ingredients: Glutathione works synergistically with other beneficial skincare ingredients such as vitamin C, retinol, tyrosinase inhibitors and niacinamide. Consider incorporating complementary ingredients into your skincare routine to maximize its efficacy. Additional oral supplementation with polypodium leucotomos extract (PLE) at 480 mg twice daily can be helpful (anecdotal evidence, unpublished).
- Sun Protection: While glutathione offers some protection against UV radiation, it’s crucial to continue using sunscreen to prevent further damage. For body lightening, you will require SPF 100+ clothing.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Supporting your skin’s health from the inside out can enhance the benefits of glutathione skin care products. Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, prioritize adequate sleep, stay hydrated, and manage stress levels.
In conclusion, integrating glutathione into your skincare regimen can be a valuable strategy for improving the health and appearance of your skin. By selecting high-quality products, using them consistently, incorporating complementary ingredients, practicing sun protection, and leading a healthy lifestyle, you can maximize the benefits of glutathione and achieve radiant, healthier-looking skin.
How long can I be on glutathione for?
There is no definitive timeline for oral glutathione supplementation. Long term effects have not been studied; however, it can be considered as safe.
When will I see the effects, how long will it take for glutathione to work?
It depends on the type of pigmentation you are treating & other therapies that are initiated. As guide-
- Melasma: at 4 weeks if you are lucky enough, at 2 weeks if combined with lasers, peels & medical management.
- Skin lightening: 4 to 8 weeks, more effective on facial & neck pigment if combined with chemical peels or lasers. *
- Anti-aging: you won’t see any benefits as by definition it is preventive.
*Not all forms of pigmentation can respond to glutathione- laser-peel combinations.
Are there any side effects of glutathione?
Side effects are mainly seen with IV glutathione and include potential damage to kidneys, liver & thyroid. Abdominal pain has also been described.
There are no concerns regarding topical or oral supplementation in doses up to 500 mg daily.
What brands do we recommend?
As of 2024, we do not typically recommend any particular brand, however we are in the process of sourcing the best glutathione formulation.
A SummaryDavin’s viewpoint on glutathione for melasma, pigmentation & skin lightening.
Dr Davin Lim | Dermatologist
The Melasma Clinic, Brisbane | Sydney
We have been using it for the past 9 years, initially as IV formulations (drip) during the skin lightening craze around 2015 (primarily led by Asian countries). IV formulations can be effective, however the costs can be significant ($900 per session), factor in 4 sessions, for temporary results that typically last 3-8 weeks.
It worked in most, but given the weekly commitment with short term results, it was impractical for most. Fast forward to 2024, & we have changed the protocol to oral supplementation of around 250 mg to 2000 mg daily. The sweet spot is 500 mg daily, taken via oral supplementation.
Whilst the true (not anecdotal or case reports) effects on melasma are lacking via large studies there are some reports that it can help with melasma pigmentation, especially in combination with procedures such as lasers & novel chemical peels.
In my practice, I do occasionally recommend glutathione and polypodium supplements for melasma (more so for skin lightening). Glutathione supplementation can also be considered in resistant or recurrent melasma as part of adjunctive therapy. Given the banal nature of this ingredient, supplementation is sensible & may contribute at best to the placebo effect.
One such study is outlined below.
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Topical and Oral Glutathione in Treatment of Melasma Med. J. Cairo Univ., Vol. 86, No. 6, September: 3083-3092, 2018
Patients and Methods: This study included 30 female patients with melasma who were selected among those attending the Outpatient Clinic of Dermatology and Venereology De- partment, Tanta University Hospitals during the period between December, 2015 and February, 2017. The studied patients were divided into 3 groups. Group I (10 patients) applied glutathione (2%) cream to the right side of the face while placebo cream to the left side (as a control) twice daily for 10 weeks.
Group II (10 patients) received oral glutathione capsules (500mg/day) for 4 weeks. Group III (10 patients) received oral placebo capsules (as a control) once daily for 4 weeks. Modified melasma area and severity index (MASI) score was calculated before and after therapy. The patients were followed up for a period of 3 months.
Results: Significant reduction in modified MASI was observed in patients treated with topical and oral glutathione (p=0.011) and (p=0.007) respectively, while patients treated with topical or oral placebo had no response. Topical and oral forms of glutathione were safe and well tolerated.
Conclusion: Glutathione is safe, tolerable and effective whitening agent when used in topical cream (2%) and also in oral form in treatment of melasma.
