Glutathione is a naturally occurring antioxidant in the body that has shown some promising results when it comes to melanin production, but ultimately skin tone is determined largely by genetics and general skin health
One of its main components salvianolic acid A acts as an antioxidant by reducing Ang-II-induced NADPH oxidase-4 (Nox4), which decreases reactive oxygen species and, as a result, suppresses Src and Akt activation
Some practitioners recommend an initial period of 3 months at 1,000-2,000 mg daily, followed by a maintenance dose of 500 mg daily, though such high doses should only be used under professional guidance
By far, the most studied cysteine supplement is the cysteine prodrug NAC
It promotes the formation of new blood vessels at injury sites, modulates nitric oxide production, and upregulates growth-hormone receptors on tendon and ligament fibroblasts