Glutathione vs Decapeptide-12
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Anti-Aging & LongevityImmune Support
GlutathioneSkin & Cosmetic
Decapeptide-12- Summary
- Glutathione is the body's master endogenous antioxidant tripeptide, composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It neutralizes reactive oxygen species, supports detoxification in the liver, recycles other antioxidants (vitamins C and E), and plays a central role in immune function, DNA repair, and cellular redox balance.
- Decapeptide-12 is a synthetic 10-amino acid peptide developed for skin brightening and depigmentation. It selectively inhibits tyrosinase activity and downstream melanogenesis pathways, reducing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone without the irritation associated with hydroquinone.
- Half-Life
- Minutes to hours depending on route; IV half-life approximately 10-30 minutes
- Not applicable (topical)
- Admin Route
- Oral (liposomal preferred), Sublingual, Intravenous, Nebulized/inhaled, Topical
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 250-1000 mg per day
- 5 ppm (0.0005%) concentration
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- Twice daily (AM and PM)
- Key Benefits
- Primary endogenous antioxidant and free radical scavenger
- Supports hepatic detoxification of xenobiotics and heavy metals
- Recycles vitamins C and E to maintain antioxidant network
- Modulates immune function and T-cell activity
- Skin brightening via inhibition of tyrosinase (IV/topical routes)
- Neuroprotective in oxidative stress-related conditions
- Mitochondrial protection and energy metabolism support
- Reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Evens skin tone and improves radiance
- Inhibits post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Well-tolerated alternative to hydroquinone
- Effective for melasma and age spots
- Non-cytotoxic to melanocytes
- Side Effects
- Oral bioavailability is limited (largely hydrolyzed in gut); liposomal or sublingual forms preferred
- IV administration: rare allergic reactions, vein irritation
- High-dose supplementation may cause zinc depletion over time
- Inhaled glutathione may trigger bronchoconstriction in asthmatics
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare mild irritation or sensitivity in some skin types
- Results may take several weeks to become visible
- Stacks With
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