Tranexamic Acid: A Deep Dive
What Is Tranexamic Acid?
Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic derivative of lysine, an amino acid involved in blood clotting. Originally, TXA was used in medicine to reduce excessive bleeding in conditions like heavy menstrual bleeding, surgery, and trauma. However, in recent years, dermatologists have found an exciting new use for it: treating hyperpigmentation and improving skin tone.
How Does Tranexamic Acid Work in the Skin?
In dermatology, tranexamic acid is primarily used to treat hyperpigmentation, including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and sun-induced dark spots. TXA works through several pathways:
Inhibition of Plasmin Activity: Plasmin, an enzyme in the skin, plays a role in UV-induced pigmentation. TXA blocks this pathway, preventing excessive melanin production.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: TXA reduces inflammatory mediators that contribute to skin discoloration.
Vascular Stabilization: Some forms of pigmentation, like melasma, involve increased blood vessel formation. TXA helps by stabilizing these blood vessels, reducing redness and vascular contributions to pigmentation.
Ways to Use Tranexamic Acid in Skincare
Oral Tranexamic Acid
Prescribed in low doses (250–500 mg daily) for melasma and severe hyperpigmentation.
Highly effective, but needs close monitoring due to a small risk of blood clotting in predisposed individuals.
Topical Tranexamic Acid
Found in serums, creams, and ampoules.
Often combined with niacinamide, kojic acid, vitamin C, and arbutin for enhanced results.
Lower risk of side effects compared to oral TXA but takes longer to see results.
Injectable Tranexamic Acid (Mesotherapy)
Used in-office treatments, where TXA is injected directly into areas of pigmentation.
Less commonly used but shows promise in stubborn cases of melasma.
My Experience with Anua Tranexamic Acid Serum
I’ve been testing out the Anua Tranexamic Acid Serum, which combines TXA with niacinamide—a powerhouse ingredient for brightening and skin barrier repair. So far, I think it’s actually helping with dark spots. The niacinamide likely boosts the effects, and I appreciate that it’s non-irritating compared to other brightening ingredients like hydroquinone or retinoids.
Would I repurchase? Maybe, but I’m also curious to compare it to other TXA formulations, especially those with higher concentrations.
Tranexamic Acid in Korean Skincare vs. American Skincare
TXA has gained huge popularity in Korean skincare, where brightening and pigment correction are major focuses. Some standout products include:
MediCube Deep Vita C Ampoule (TXA + Vitamin C)
Manyo Factory Tranexamic Acid Cream
Anua TXA 5% Serum (the one I’m currently using)
Jumiso Waterfull Hyaluronic Acid + TXA Serum
In contrast, tranexamic acid is much harder to find in U.S. skincare products. While some medical-grade brands like SkinCeuticals and SkinMedica have incorporated it, most American over-the-counter options focus on hydroquinone or azelaic acid for hyperpigmentation.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes! If you struggle with melasma, dark spots, or post-acne hyperpigmentation, TXA is absolutely worth incorporating into your routine—especially if hydroquinone has been too harsh for you.
That being said, consistency is key, and you’ll likely see the best results when pairing it with other proven ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, and sunscreen (which, by the way, is non-negotiable when treating pigmentation!).
The Future of Tranexamic Acid in Skincare
I’m excited to see more American brands adopting TXA and hopefully integrating it into multifunctional brightening products. Given the research backing its effectiveness and safety, it’s likely we’ll see more clinical-grade formulations, higher concentrations, and innovative delivery methods (maybe even more liposomal or encapsulated TXA for deeper penetration).
For now, I’ll keep testing my Korean skincare routine and report back on whether TXA continues to impress. Stay tuned!
Have you tried tranexamic acid in your routine? Let me know in the comments!