In the ever-growing landscape of skincare acids, the rise of tranexamic acid for skin, commonly referred to as TXA, has garnered significant attention. Despite its extensive use in the medical field, its incorporation into skincare is a relatively recent trend.
What is Tranexamic Acid?
Tranexamic acid, derived from the amino acid lysine, acts topically to intercept two potential pathways leading to skin pigmentation, including the development of melasma patches. By inhibiting the interaction between keratinocytes (the skin's surface cells) and melanocytes (responsible for melanin production), tranexamic acid emerges as an effective solution for pigmentation, dark spots, and skin lightening. Primarily employed in treating melasma, a condition often triggered during pregnancy or post-injury, tranexamic acid also fortifies the skin against UV light sensitivity due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits of Tranexamic Acid
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Versatile Application: One of TXA's primary advantages is its compatibility with toners, serums, and moisturizers. In comparison to other exfoliating hydroxy acids, tranexamic acid excels in reducing hyperpigmentation.
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Targeted Treatment: Tranexamic acid serums and lotions offer a non-irritating approach to addressing various skin concerns such as dullness, discoloration, and pigmentation.
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Melasma Management: TXA plays a multifaceted role in treating melasma, showcasing its efficacy in addressing this specific skin condition.
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects: By mitigating inflammatory mediators responsible for increased pigmentation after prolonged UV exposure, tranexamic acid contributes to reducing acne and redness.
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Melanin Production Control: The structural similarity of tranexamic acid to tyrosine aids in preventing melanin production, further enhancing its effectiveness.
Side Effects of Tranexamic Acid
While topical use of tranexamic acid is generally safe, it is advisable to conduct a patch test, particularly for individuals prone to adverse reactions to new products. Consulting with a dermatologist before incorporating TXA into your skincare routine is recommended. Potential side effects include:
- Numbness or itching of the face, fingers, or toes
- Abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, and vomiting
- Facial hypertrichosis
- Headache and transient amnesia
- Tremors
- Increased hair shedding
- Lip or periorbital swelling
- Palpitations
How to Use Tranexamic Acid in Skincare
Due to its mild nature, combining tranexamic acid with other skincare ingredients maximizes its benefits. For instance, pairing it with retinol or a chemical peel enhances its effectiveness in treating melasma. Similarly, combining TXA with vitamin C or kojic acid amplifies its brightening properties. Tranexamic acid can be incorporated into your skincare routine once or twice a day.
Product with Tranexamic Acid
References
Evaluation of oral tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma,
https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12830
Tranexamic Acid for Melasma: Evaluating the Various Formulations,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6715124/#!po=2.94118
Tranexamic Acid Diminishes Laser-Induced Melanogenesis,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4466276/#:~:text=Effects%20of%20tranexamic%20acid%20on,3
Tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma: A comprehensive review of clinical studies,
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28133910/
A prospective randomized controlled study of oral tranexamic acid for preventing postinflammatory hyperpigmentation after Q-switched ruby laser,
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21457392/
Effect of a Tranexamic Acid, Kojic Acid, and Niacinamide Containing Serum on Facial Dyschromia: A Clinical Evaluation,
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31141852/
Tranexamic acid: An emerging depigmenting agent ,
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/311777944_Tranexamic_acid_An_emerging_depigmenting_agent
Topical tranexamic acid as a promising treatment for melasma ,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4235096/
Effect of tranexamic acid on melasma: A clinical trial with histological evaluation ,
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/221827731_Effect_of_tranexamic_acid_on_melasma_A_clinical_trial_with_histological_evaluation
Topical 5% Tranexamic Acid as a Treatment for Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation Due to Acne Vulgaris,
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03361345
Efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid 5% cream vs hydroquinone 4% cream in treating melasma: A split-face comparative clinical, histopathological, and antera 3D camera study
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dth.14240
A Split Face Comparative Study of Safety and Efficacy of Microneedling with Tranexamic Acid versus Microneedling with Vitamin C in the Treatment of Melasma
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32055507/