Glutathione (GSH) Glutathione (GSH), the prominent non-protein intracellular thiol compound, is a tripeptide made from the amino acids glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid and it is the main player in antioxidant defense against reactive oxygen species (ROS) and electrophiles
Sensitive skin Challenges: Retinol causes more irritation Even gentle peptides may sting on compromised barrier Strategy: Start with low-dose retinol (0.25% or 0.3%) Use soothing peptides (Matrixyl, copper peptides) Apply retinol 2-3x weekly initially Use sandwich method (moisturizer retinol peptides moisturizer) Consider separate AM/PM application Dry skin Challenges: Retinol increases dryness Needs extra hydration Strategy: Use hydrating peptide serums with hyaluronic acid Apply retinol over damp skin Heavy moisturizer after peptides + retinol Consider retinol in emollient base (like squalane) Oily/acne-prone skin Advantages: Tolerates retinol well (less dryness) Retinol helps with breakouts Strategy: Can use higher retinol concentrations (0.5-1%) Lighter peptide serums (water-based, not oil-heavy) Oil-free moisturizer Can apply peptides + retinol nightly once acclimated Mature skin (50+) Needs: More aggressive anti-aging May have thinner, more fragile skin Strategy: Build up to potent retinol (0.5-1%) gradually Use multiple peptide types (signal + copper + neurotransmitter) Apply peptides AM and PM Retinol PM only Rich, nourishing moisturizers Injectable peptides vs topical peptides with retinol Beyond topical skincare, some people use injectable peptides for anti-aging
If you have low B12 or a true deficiency, these shots can work wonders Image content: This image is available to view online
Finkel T, Holbrook NJ (2000) Oxidants, oxidative stress and the biology of ageing
Sep 2021;43(3):503-514
