Glutathione is a natural antioxidant produced by the liver. It’s also found in a number of fruits and vegetables, particularly tomatoes, garlic, avocados, squash and parsley. It’s an anti-aging beauty treatment that’s popular in Asia, where women report having more energy and a boost in their immune systems, as well as whiter, brighter skin (which is especially important in a culture that holds fairer skin in high regard).

GSH improves immune system function by increasing the production of white blood cells that help fight infections and diseases. It also helps detoxify the body by reducing the build-up of harmful free radicals that cause damage to healthy cells and wreak havoc on the skin.

Besides being an excellent anti-aging treatment, glutathione can also prevent the formation of dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles by ensuring that new skin cells are properly formed and aren’t damaged by UV rays or pollution. It can also reverse oxidative damage in the eyes by preventing thinning of the cornea and retina.

Because any injection can result in bruising, doctors recommend cooling the area after a glutathione injection to reduce swelling. Otherwise, there’s no downtime and you can resume your day-to-day activities right away without needing any medication. If you do experience any pain or headache, over-the-counter pain relievers should work well. However, you shouldn’t rely solely on these medications and always consult your doctor before attempting any treatment.