Glutathione: Korea's Favourite Glow Ingredient

Walk through any Seoul beauty store right now and you'll see glutathione on half the brightening shelf. Here's why.

What is glutathione?

Glutathione is an antioxidant made from three amino acids. In skincare it's used to help dull, uneven-looking skin look brighter and clearer. Some brands wrap it in liposomes (tiny carriers) to help it absorb, which is where names like Glutathiosome come from.

What it does for your skin

• Brightens dull-looking skin. It helps tired skin look fresher and more radiant.
• Evens the look of tone. Over time, patchy areas look more even.
• Antioxidant support. It helps skin cope with everyday stress.

Who it suits

Dull or uneven-looking skin, and anyone after a clear, glassy glow. Usually gentle enough for sensitive skin.

Skin MBTI match: P (tone care). Not sure of yours? The Skin MBTI quiz tells you in three minutes.

How to use it

1. Use a glutathione serum once or twice a day after toner.
2. Follow with moisturiser, and sunscreen in the morning.
3. Give it six to eight weeks of daily use.

When you'll notice it: Six to eight weeks of daily use.

Good to know: Generally gentle. Daily sunscreen protects the result.

What to pair it with

Glutathione is often paired with niacinamide and vitamin C, which target dullness in different ways.

Myth vs fact

Myth: Glutathione bleaches skin.
Fact: In skincare it helps even out the look of tone. It doesn't change your natural skin colour.

How to choose one

• Look for Glutathione. Liposomal forms (such as 'Glutathiosome') are designed to absorb better.
• Serums give the most concentrated dose.
• Brightening serums often pair it with niacinamide or vitamin C. That's a plus.

Where to find it

From the big names, Abib's Vita Drop serum carries 5% Glutathiosome, and Biodance pairs glutathione with 2% niacinamide and pineapple fruit water.

See more in our Even Things Out collection.

FAQ

Can I use glutathione with vitamin C?

Yes. They're commonly used together.

Is glutathione good for sensitive skin?

It's generally well tolerated. Patch-test if your skin is very reactive.

How long does it take?

Give it six to eight weeks.

Korean corner: 도자기 피부 (do-ja-gi pi-boo) means "porcelain skin".