Silvagno et al., 2020
Glutathione reduces cellular aging and disease risk by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals, preventing lipid peroxidation, protein denaturation, and DNA oxidative damage
These detrimental effects are linked to suppression of the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway
After opening commercial serum Once opened (seal broken): Air exposure begins Bacterial contamination possible Oxidation accelerates Shorter shelf life Track opening date Shelf life after opening: Why packaging matters: Airless pump: Minimal air contact, longest life Dropper: Some air exposure, moderate life Jar: Maximum air exposure, shortest life Finger contamination risk (jar) Best practices after opening: Refrigerate after opening (extends life) Close tightly after each use Don't contaminate (no fingers in product) Use within 6 months ideally Note opening date on bottle Signs commercial serum degraded: Color change (darkening, blue-green tint) Smell change (rancid or off odor) Texture change (separation, clumping) Reduced efficacy (no longer works) Irritation (preservatives depleted, bacteria) When to discard: Past expiration date + 3-6 months opened Any signs of degradation above Unusual smell or color Product separated and won't remix Skin irritation develops Commercial vs DIY serum stability Commercial serum advantages: Professional preservative systems pH buffered correctly Antioxidants included Tested stability (12-24 months unopened) Quality assurance DIY serum challenges: No professional preservatives (or inadequate) pH optimization difficult Limited antioxidant protection Short shelf life (1-2 weeks refrigerated) Bacterial contamination risk Comparison: When DIY acceptable: Make small batches (1-2 weeks supply) Use immediately Refrigerate always Accept short shelf life Understand contamination risk When commercial better: Want convenience Need longer shelf life Travel frequently Don't want frequent preparation Value safety/stability See DIY GHK-Cu serum recipe for home formulation
Stretch marks improve modestly in color, less so in texture
Our peptides are lyophilized (freeze-dried), making them shelf-stable for many weeks at room temperature
