Tranexamic Acid
Originally used systemically to control bleeding, topical tranexamic acid has emerged as a star ingredient for stubborn melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Inhibits the plasminogen/plasmin pathway in keratinocytes, reducing UV-induced prostaglandin and arachidonic-acid mediated melanogenesis. Also stabilises mast cells.
- Targets stubborn melasma
- Reduces post-acne marks
- Calms inflammation
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Compatible with most actives
What the evidence supports.
- All skin types
No notable contraindications reported.
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 2%–5%
Year-round; particularly valuable through summer for hormonal pigmentation.
No dietary equivalent.
No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.
First-line topical for hormonal melasma. Pairs strongly with oral TXA prescribed dermatologically.
- Lee et al. 2016, 5% TXA improved melasma scores 79% in 12 weeks
- Banihashemi et al. 2015, TXA equivalent to hydroquinone with safer profile
The research behind Tranexamic Acid.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
International Journal of Dermatology, 2004
British Journal of Dermatology, 2002
International Journal of Dermatology, 1991
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2020
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
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1 study from the Intelligence Vault that discuss Tranexamic Acid.
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