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L-Glutathione Flexible Liposome

L-Glutathione Flexible Liposome

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A high-potency brightening ampoule featuring 5% liposomal L-Glutathione (88 billion molecules/mL) with flexible liposome technology for deep skin penetration. Combined with Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, and Vitamin E to target dark spots, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation while supporting skin barrier health.

5% L-Glutathione Liposome Technology Dermatologist Tested Fragrance-Free Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Alcohol-Free Oil-Free
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Caution
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
30ml / 1.01 fl oz
Key Active
5% Glutathione
Concern
Brightening
PAO
12 Months
Type
Ampoule/Serum
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Flexible Liposome Technology

Encapsulates glutathione in hydrogenated lecithin and cholesterol liposomes for enhanced skin penetration and stability.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery-Light
Scent
Sulfurous (Glutathione)
Absorption
Instant (5-10 sec)
Finish
Dewy-Natural

Flexible Liposome Technology

Encapsulates glutathione in hydrogenated lecithin and cholesterol liposomes for enhanced skin penetration and stability.

High-Potency Brightening

Contains 5% pure L-Glutathione (50,000ppm) to inhibit melanin production and reduce hyperpigmentation.

Multi-Action Formula

Synergistic blend of Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, and Vitamin E for comprehensive skin tone correction.

Barrier Support

Glycerin, Betaine, and Panthenol provide hydration while Licorice Root Extract (Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate) soothes and calms.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Limited research on topical glutathione during pregnancy. Contains no retinoids or hydroquinone. Consult your healthcare provider before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Contains Hydrogenated Lecithin which may be a concern for some FA-prone skin. Patch test recommended if you have malassezia sensitivity.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Dermatologist-tested formula. Free from fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and harsh alcohols. Most users report no irritation.

Retinol & Vitamin C Compatible

Can be layered with other actives. Apply this serum first as a booster, then follow with your treatment serums.

Scent Notice

Natural sulfurous smell from glutathione (similar to eggs). This is normal and indicates active ingredient potency. Scent dissipates quickly after application.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Oil-free, silicone-free formula with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

L-Glutathione 5% (50,000ppm)Star Ingredient

A powerful tripeptide antioxidant naturally produced in the body. Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme to reduce melanin production, providing skin brightening and anti-aging benefits.

  • Function: Master antioxidant, melanin inhibitor, free radical scavenger
  • Research: Studies show glutathione can help protect skin from UV-B induced damage and reduce oxidative stress
  • Delivery: Encapsulated in flexible liposomes for enhanced penetration
Note: High concentration causes natural sulfurous scent. Results vary by individual - some respond better to glutathione than others.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven

Multitasking powerhouse that strengthens skin barrier, reduces pores and dark spots, regulates oil production, and improves signs of aging.

  • Benefits: Brightening, barrier repair, oil control, anti-aging
  • Synergy: Works synergistically with glutathione to enhance brightening effects
  • Safety: Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin

Tranexamic AcidProven

Clinically proven ingredient that targets stubborn hyperpigmentation and melasma by inhibiting the pathway that leads to melanin production.

  • Research: Multiple studies show effectiveness for melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • Safety: Generally considered safe for topical use, gentler alternative to hydroquinone
  • Action: Blocks plasmin activity to prevent UV-induced pigmentation

Liposome ComplexDelivery System

Advanced delivery technology using Hydrogenated Lecithin and Cholesterol to encapsulate active ingredients for deeper skin penetration.

  • Hydrogenated Lecithin: Creates flexible liposome structure for enhanced absorption
  • Cholesterol: Skin-identical lipid that strengthens barrier and stabilizes liposomes
  • Benefit: Improves bioavailability of glutathione and other actives

Supporting IngredientsSoothing & Hydrating

Carefully selected ingredients to hydrate, soothe, and support overall skin health.

  • Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Hydrates and promotes wound healing
  • Tocopherol (Vitamin E): Antioxidant protection and moisture retention
  • Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate: Licorice root extract for soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Betaine: Natural humectant for hydration
  • Cysteine & Glycine: Amino acids that support glutathione synthesis

21 ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Glutathione (50,000ppm), 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, Cysteine, Glycine, Tocopherol, Betaine, Panthenol, Carnitine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Cholesterol, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Xanthan Gum

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Essential Oils, Alcohol (Denat.), Artificial Colors, Hydroquinone, Retinoids
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
This Product
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Apply immediately after cleansing on bare, dry skin for best absorption. This product acts as a booster to enhance the efficacy of your following skincare steps.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with a clean, dry face. Pat skin dry completely - this product works best on dry skin for optimal absorption.

2

Dispense Product

Pump 2-3 drops onto your fingertips or palm. A little goes a long way due to the concentrated formula.

3

Apply & Pat

Gently apply to entire face, patting lightly to aid absorption. Focus on areas with dark spots or uneven tone.

4

Wait & Continue

Allow 1-2 minutes for complete absorption before applying toner and other products. Use morning and/or night.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have dark spots, hyperpigmentation, or melasma
  • Your skin looks dull and lacks radiance
  • You want a brightening product without hydroquinone
  • You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
  • You want to enhance absorption of other products
  • You have acne scars or post-inflammatory pigmentation

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are highly sensitive to sulfurous smells
  • You have active fungal acne and are sensitive to lecithin
  • You are pregnant/breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
  • You need a product that also provides heavy moisture
  • You expect overnight dramatic results
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Watery, oil-free formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides light hydration but will need a heavier moisturizer on top. Glycerin and Betaine offer some moisture.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Lightweight texture works well across different face zones. Balances oily T-zone without drying cheeks.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Dermatologist-tested and fragrance-free. Some may experience mild tingling initially. Patch test recommended.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Non-comedogenic (1/5), oil-free formula. Great for fading acne scars. Check lecithin sensitivity if fungal acne prone.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Week 1-2

Hydration & Glow Boost

Skin feels more hydrated and looks more luminous. Some users notice an immediate radiance boost after application.

70% noticed improved glow
Week 3-4

Tone Evening Begins

Overall complexion starts to look clearer and more even. Dullness decreases noticeably. Skin texture may feel smoother.

65% saw clearer complexion
Week 5-8

Visible Brightening

Dark spots and hyperpigmentation start to fade. Users report noticeable difference between treated and untreated areas.

60% noticed spot reduction
Week 8+

Continued Improvement

With consistent use, skin tone becomes more uniform. Best results seen with continued daily use alongside sun protection.

55% achieved desired results
09

Ratings by platform

780+ REVIEWS
iHerb
4.5
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Strong sulfurous smell from glutathione
YesStyle
4.4
Rating
80+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small bottle size for the price
Hwahae (Korea)
4.2
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Results vary person to person, unpleasant scent
Amazon
4.3
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users experienced breakouts initially
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • High concentration of glutathione (5%) with liposome delivery
  • Noticeable brightening effect within weeks
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing watery texture
  • Clean formula free from harmful ingredients
  • Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin
  • Enhances absorption of other skincare products
  • Airless pump preserves formula integrity
  • Layers well under makeup and other products

Criticized

  • Strong sulfurous/egg smell (glutathione characteristic)
  • Small bottle (30ml) runs out quickly with daily use
  • Results vary significantly between individuals
  • Some users experience initial breakouts (purging)
  • Not moisturizing enough for very dry skin alone
  • Can feel slightly sticky before fully absorbed
  • Higher price point compared to basic serums
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Glutathiosome Dark Spot Serum Vita Drop
$26.00
Similar Price

Contains glutathione with liposome technology plus Vitamin C. Larger 50ml size but lower glutathione concentration. More ingredients including centella and ceramides.

70% Match
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
$9.90
Budget Pick

Different active (alpha arbutin) but same brightening goal. Much more affordable. No glutathione or liposome technology, but proven melanin inhibitor.

65% Match
Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Toner
$18.00
Budget Pick

Focuses on Vitamin C and fermented ingredients for brightening. No glutathione but includes niacinamide. Better value but different mechanism of action.

85% Match
25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum
$55.00

Contains glutathione with high-concentration Vitamin C (25%). More expensive but stronger antioxidant protection. Better for mature skin concerns.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dark Spot Serum
Key Active Glutathione (undisclosed %)
Size 50ml
Delivery System Glutathiosome Technology
Additional Actives Niacinamide, Vitamin C, Centella
Fragrance-Free Yes
25% Vitamin C + Glutathione Clinical Serum
Key Active 25% Vitamin C + Glutathione
Size 15ml
Delivery System GAP Technology
Additional Actives Ferulic Acid, Vitamin E
Fragrance-Free Yes
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Key Active 2% Alpha Arbutin
Size 30ml
Delivery System None
Additional Actives Hyaluronic Acid
Fragrance-Free Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration optional but can help preserve potency.

Packaging

Airless pump bottle that protects formula from oxidation and contamination

Travel Friendly

Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA limit for carry-on luggage

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

There is limited research on topical glutathione during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While glutathione is naturally present in the body and the formula contains no known harmful ingredients (no retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens), we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while nursing.

This product contains Hydrogenated Lecithin as part of its liposome delivery system, which may be a concern for some individuals with fungal acne sensitivity. While the formula is oil-free and free from common FA triggers like fatty acids and esters, those with severe malassezia should patch test first or consult a dermatologist.

Yes, this serum can be layered with other actives. Apply PURCELL first on clean, dry skin as a booster, then follow with your other serums. When using with retinol or strong acids, you may want to use them at different times of day (glutathione AM, retinol PM) to minimize potential irritation.

This serum is best for oily, combination, and normal skin types due to its lightweight, watery texture. Dry skin types can use it but will need a heavier moisturizer. It's excellent for anyone dealing with dullness, dark spots, uneven skin tone, or hyperpigmentation. The dermatologist-tested formula is also suitable for sensitive skin.

Most users notice improved radiance and glow within 1-2 weeks. Visible brightening and reduction in dark spots typically begin around weeks 3-4, with more significant results at 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Results vary by individual - some respond better to glutathione than others. Always use sunscreen during the day for best results.

Apply immediately after cleansing on bare, dry skin - before toner. This is unusual compared to most serums, but the manufacturer recommends this order for optimal absorption. The product acts as a booster to enhance the efficacy of your following skincare steps.

No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). It's oil-free, silicone-free, and formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients. The lightweight, watery texture absorbs quickly without leaving residue. However, as with any new product, some users may experience initial purging if they have clogged pores.

The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). The airless pump packaging helps protect the formula from oxidation and contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.

The sulfurous or "egg-like" smell is natural and comes from the high concentration of glutathione, which is a sulfur-containing compound. This is actually a sign of product potency. The scent dissipates quickly after application and does not linger on the skin once absorbed. Many users report getting used to it quickly.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: PURCELL L-Glutathione Flexible Liposome is an impressive K-beauty brightening serum featuring one of the highest glutathione concentrations on the market (5%) with advanced liposome delivery technology. The combination of glutathione, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid creates a powerful yet gentle brightening trio. While the sulfurous scent may take some getting used to, users consistently praise its fast-absorbing texture and visible brightening results within weeks. Best for those seeking a clinical-strength brightening treatment without hydroquinone. The main drawbacks are the small bottle size and the fact that results vary significantly between individuals - glutathione works better for some people than others. A solid choice for anyone serious about targeting hyperpigmentation and achieving a more radiant complexion.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Tocopherol Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Glutathione Niacinamide Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Tocopherol Panthenol Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
76% 23%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 21 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Glutathione
Fragrance, Reducing
brightening Brightening
Dark Spots
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS