Tranexamic acid (TXA), a synthetic derivative of lysine, has emerged as a promising treatment for various skin conditions, particularly melasma and hyperpigmentation. While primarily used in medical settings to control bleeding, its benefits extend to dermatology, offering a potential solution for those seeking to improve their skin's tone and appearance.
What is Tranexamic Acid?
Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine. It is used in many medical settings to control bleeding. But what exactly can it do as a treatment for hyperpigmentation? Studies show tranexamic acid (TXA) has a wide variety of skin benefits. It’s often found in serums, creams, and masks that are available over the counter. It’s sometimes combined with other active ingredients to boost its effects. Tranexamic acid can also be taken orally for more severe cases of hyperpigmentation, but this should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
How Tranexamic Acid Works for Hyperpigmentation
Tranexamic acid effectively reduces visible hyperpigmentation, including melasma, dark spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) caused by acne. One of the ways in which it is believed to work is by reducing melanin synthesis. Tranexamic acid is generally compatible with all skin types, including sensitive skin. Reducing the production of melanin helps brighten and even out the overall skin tone. The mechanism of action of tranexamic acid in dermatological disorders is not fully understood. In melasma, the hypothesised mechanism of action of tranexamic acid includes the shrinkage of dermal vasculature and reduced melanin synthesis by altering the interaction of keratinocytes and melanocytes and reducing tyrosinase activity.
Forms and Concentrations of Tranexamic Acid in Skincare
In skincare formulations, we typically see tranexamic acid serums in concentrations ranging from 2% to 5%.
- 2%: This is a common concentration found in many over-the-counter skincare products. It’s effective at fading mild hyperpigmentation, improving skin tone, and generally brightening your complexion.
- 3% to 5%: These concentrations are often found in more potent treatments used for addressing more severe pigmentation issues like melasma and stubborn dark spots.
How to Incorporate Tranexamic Acid into Your Skincare Routine
It’s important to start with lower concentrations of tranexamic acid serum if you have sensitive skin, or if you’re new to this ingredient. Additionally, combining tranexamic acid with other complementary ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or Vitamin C can enhance how effective it is and provide even more benefits.
Read also: The role of alpha-keto acids in metabolism.
Expected Timeline for Visible Results
The time it takes to see visible results on the skin from tranexamic acid can depend on many different factors, including the severity of hyperpigmentation, how concentrated the product is, the ingredients it’s combined with, your individual skin type and how it responds to the ingredient. Some people may start noticing initial improvements in skin tone and brightness within the first few weeks of consistent use. You may see more noticeable changes in hyperpigmentation, including a reduction in the intensity of dark spots and melasma. For more stubborn types of skin discolorations, visible improvements can take 8 to 12 weeks or longer. It’s important to note that individual results can vary, and patience is key when using any skincare treatment for hyperpigmentation. Consistency in applying the product as directed is crucial for achieving the best results. If you don’t see any improvement after several months of consistent use, it might be helpful to consult with a dermatology professional for personalised advice and potential alternative treatments. When used in melasma, the reported success rate is up to 89%, with results appearing as early as eight weeks.
Daily Use and Application Guidelines
Yes, tranexamic acid can be used on the skin every day. In fact daily use is what’s typically recommended for the best results.
- Start Slowly: Use it every other day at first to see how your skin reacts.
- Check The Concentration: Over-the-counter products usually contain concentrations ranging from 2% to 5%, which are generally safe for daily use.
- Application: Tranexamic acid can be applied once or twice daily, depending on the formulation and your skin’s tolerance. We recommend using it only once a day, especially if there are other active ingredients in your routine.
- Complementary Products: You can use tranexamic acid alongside other active ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin C.
- Always perform a patch test before bringing any new product into your regular rotation to avoid adverse reactions.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Most people can generally use skincare products with tranexamic acid without any issues, but a small few might notice an adverse reaction. It’s rare, however some individuals might experience allergic reactions like redness, swelling, or itching. Always do a patch test before applying tranexamic acid to your whole face. If you notice severe irritation, or damage to your skin barrier, stop using it and ask a dermatology expert to tailor a skincare routine to soothe your skin and restore it to a natural, balanced state. While clinical evidence suggests no significantly increased risk of thrombosis in patients taking tranexamic acid, the possible risk of venous and arterial thrombotic complications cannot be entirely excluded.
Tranexamic Acid vs. Retinol
No, tranexamic acid is not a retinol. Tranexamic Acid mainly targets hyperpigmentation issues, including melasma and dark spots. Retinol is usually recommended for anti-ageing or acne routines. It should be introduced gradually to let your skin build up tolerance slowly. Both ingredients can be beneficial, and can be used together to address different skin concerns. As they’re both active ingredients, try using them at different times of day to reduce the possibility for irritation or side effects. If you want to use these topical treatments alongside each other, start with lower concentrations and do a patch test. If you have specific concerns or particularly sensitive skin, always talk to your dermatology expert for advice.
Tranexamic Acid vs. Vitamin C
Tranexamic acid and Vitamin C are both effective ingredients for treating hyperpigmentation. They work in different ways, and are both beneficial. One isn’t better than the other for fading dark spots. Tranexamic acid is more targeted toward reducing hyperpigmentation, while Vitamin C is better suited for general skin health and reducing all visible signs of ageing. If you’re not sure if this combination is right for you, ask your dermatology expert to help you create a personalised routine that suits your individual needs and goals. Formulated with a science-backed powerhouse of L-ascorbic acid (the most potent form of topical Vitamin C), Vitamin E and ferulic acid, this booster is designed to keep the photosensitive ingredients potent for as long as possible. Your unique formula will include ingredients you can’t get over the counter, which are up to 20x more potent than shop-bought skincare.
Read also: Facial Toner with Hyaluronic Acid
The Importance of Sun Protection
Sun exposure causes 90% of visible skin ageing, and darkens hyperpigmentation.
Oral Tranexamic Acid
Tranexamic acid can also be taken orally for more severe cases of hyperpigmentation, but this should always be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The dose used for melasma (250 mg twice daily) is comparable to the cumulative monthly dose used for menorrhagia (heavy menstruation). The dose suggested for hereditary angioedema is 1-1.5 g orally 2-3 times daily, as intermittent or continuous treatment, as determined by symptoms.
Topical Tranexamic Acid
Topical tranexamic acid 5% cream is under investigation in the treatment of melasma and is showing promising results in the treatment of epidermal-type melasma.
Read also: Radiant Skin with Glycolic Acid
tags: #tranexamic #acid #for #melasma #and #hyperpigmentation