What it does
A targeted brightening active that fades stubborn discoloration, especially the appearance of melasma and post-inflammatory marks that resist other ingredients.
Best for
Melasma, stubborn dark spots, and post-acne discoloration. A strong option when gentler brighteners plateau.
What is tranexamic acid?
Tranexamic acid, often shortened to TXA, is a targeted brightening active that fades stubborn discoloration. It is particularly known for the appearance of melasma, a persistent type of pigmentation that resists many other ingredients.
It works differently from surface exfoliants: it interrupts the signals that tell skin to overproduce pigment.
What does tranexamic acid do for skin?
Tranexamic acid reduces the appearance of melasma and stubborn dark patches.
A review of tranexamic acid for pigmentation found it reduces the appearance of melasma and is a useful option for stubborn discoloration.
It layers well with niacinamide and other brighteners, and it is often the next step when gentler actives stop making progress. Daily sunscreen is essential to hold results.
Who should use tranexamic acid?
Tranexamic acid suits people with melasma or stubborn discoloration that has not responded to gentler brighteners. It is well tolerated topically, so it fits most skin types.
Evidence
Tranexamic acid reduces the appearance of melasma and is a well-supported option for stubborn pigmentation.
Read the source: Dermatologic Surgery: Tranexamic Acid for the Treatment of Melasma, a Review (2018) ->