It is believed that glutathione is the master antioxidant due to its outstanding ability to fight oxidative stress, assist liver detoxification, and brighten the skin. Nevertheless, others who start taking supplements or intravenous injections of glutathione experience a side effect they never anticipated, namely acne flare-ups. This contradiction leads to a great question- Why Does Glutathione Cause Acne Breakouts?
In our comprehensive guide, we will discuss the relationship between glutathione and acne breakouts grounding on the mechanisms, triggers and potential solutions.
What is Glutathione and its Functions in the Body?
Glutathione is a tripeptide that is naturally formed by three amino acids; glutamine, cysteine and glycine. It plays an essential role in:
- Inactivation of free radicals and oxidative stress.
- Helping to cleanse the liver and eliminate toxins of the body.
- Controlling cellular processes of repair and regeneration.
- Boosting skin health by reducing melanin and lightening its colour.
Due to these advantages, glutathione is now a common aesthetic medicine in treating individuals who want a brighter, younger and more radiant skin. However, when the body responds with breakouts, the common causes are the internal imbalances or the detox mechanisms.
Connection between Glutathione and Acne Breakouts:
Although it can help heal the skin, others experience purging of the skin or acne outbreaks with glutathione treatment. The primary causes include:
Detox and Release of Toxin:
Glutathione improves the functioning of the liver and the process of detoxification in the body is faster. As the toxins, heavy metals, and impurities become freer into the blood at a greater rate, the skin (as an alternative detox organ) can react in the form of pimples, blackheads or even whiteheads.
Hormonal Fluctuations:
Glutathione manipulates hormone pathways through the regulation of oxidative stress and communication in the cell. This may temporarily interrupt the production of androgens in sensitive people, causing excess sebum production- one of the major causes of acne.
Impact on Gut Microbiome:S
Skin health is directly associated with gut health. Gut health can be changed with glutathione supplement, and this can result in inflammation and skin flare-up in the situation when the microbiome balance is disrupted.
Immune System Activation:
Since glutathione regulates the immune response, it may create an inflammation process in the process of adaptation. This is not a severe inflammation and mostly appears on the skin in the form of breakouts and it may stabilize with time.
Difference between Purging and Acne:
Breakouts are not always the same. Other people do not know the difference between skin purging and chronic acne. It is important to know the difference:
- Skin Purging: This commonly occurs soon after the initiation of glutathione, is associated with the formation of tiny pimples or whiteheads and is usually resolved in 2-6 weeks.
- Acne Breakouts: Broader, more swollen and chronic. It can aggravate further with the intake of glutathione and needs to be examined.
Risk Factors of Acne after Glutathione:
Some people are more likely to experience breakouts due to glutathione:
- Oily skin type which is likely to have clogged pores.
- Pre-existing hormonal disorders like PCOS.
- Unhealthy food rich in sugar and dairy that aggravates acne.
- Bad liver condition causing the toxin overload.
- Wrong dose or interval of glutathione doses.
Preventing and Treating Acne:
At JJ Aesthetics, we are sure that patients will get all the skin-brightening and anti-aging properties of glutathione with reduced acne risk. Here are some strategies:
- Start with Gradual Dosage
- Liver Detoxification in a bottle.
- Use Acnes-Free Skin Care.
- Balancing Hormones and Intestinal Well-Being.
- Check the frequency of IV Sessions.
- Added to Supporting Antioxidants.
- Seek Professional Guidance
When to Discontinue Glutathione Therapies?
As much as purging is normal especially when mild, discontinue or consult medical care when:
- Breakouts are severe, cystic or painful.
- Acne persists beyond 6-8 weeks
- Rashes or swelling are accompanied by skin reactions.
- Generally, health is compromised.
In JJ Aesthetics, we are attentive to the patients so the glutathione therapy is safe, effective and addressing the needs of each skin.
Final Thoughts:
With its formidable antioxidant properties, glutathione boasts of remarkable skin health, detox and anti-aging effects. But to others it can bring about a temporary breakout of acne as one adapts to the higher level of detoxification and cellular control. With a clear understanding of the underlying causes, risk factor management, and expert advice, patients will be able to enjoy the brightening effects of glutathione without the need to have any concerns about the skin in the long-term.
At JJ Aesthetics, we focus on safety and results, and every treatment plan would target your personal type of skin and health history. Why Does Glutathione Cause Acne Breakouts? If you want to know more about this query then consult our team.
