Recently, several studies have demonstrated the power of tranexamic acid for hyperpigmentation. This active ingredient visibly reduces pigmentation irregularities and improves skin tone uniformity. Find out everything you need to know about this compound in this article.
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All You Need To Know About Tranexamic Acid for Skin.
Summary
- Where Does Tranexamic Acid Come From?
- The Benefits of Tranexamic Acid for Skin Care Purposes
- How To Use Tranexamic Acid Skin Care Products?
- Typology’s Tranexamic Acid Serum With Tetrapeptide-2
- Sources
Published April 26, 2022,
updated on March 11, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
6 min read
Where Does Tranexamic Acid Come From?
Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of lysine, an amino acid found in skin. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Orally, tranexamic acid is used in medicine to treat excessive blood loss caused by major trauma, surgery, postpartum bleeding and heavy menstruation, thanks to its coagulant properties. In fact, it is on the World Health Organization's (WHO) list of essential medicines.
The lightening virtues of tranexamic acid were recently discovered by a healthcare professional. While his patient was taking this molecule to treat chronic urticaria, he observed a lightening and discoloration of his skin.
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The Benefits of Tranexamic Acid for Skin Care Purposes.
Tranexamic acid skin care (INCI: “Tranexamic Acid”) care has several benefits:
Tranexamic acid for hyperpigmentation: it reduces the appearance.
Hyperpigmentation is a disturbance in the pigmentation process: melanin, the pigment responsible for the skin's natural coloring, is overproduced in certain areas. The spots that appear vary in size and impact the uniformity of the complexion. They fall into three categories: melasma caused by hormonal imbalances, lentigo due to excessive and repeated sun exposure, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation marks resulting from overproduction of melanin after inflammation (wounds, burns, blemishes, acne outbreaks).
The mechanism of action of tranexamic acid is still poorly identified, but is thought to be based on inhibition of the release of inflammatory mediators involved in triggering melanogenesis. A 2019 study shows that tranexamic acid offers the same results in reducing melasma as hydroquinone, but without the side effects. As a reminder, hydroquinone has been banned in all cosmetic products by European regulations since 2001. With regard to acne marks, a 2022 study demonstrated that tranexamic acid was useful for reducing the appearance of these lesions, with little risk of side effects.
Tranexamic acid for skin barrier improvement: strengthening effect.
A 2015 study found that topical treatment with 3% tranexamic acid for 2 weeks improved the visible signs of rosacea. Researchers then linked this reduction in symptoms to an improvement in the skin barrier.
How To Use Tranexamic Acid Skin Care Products?
First, the effectiveness of tranexamic acid for hyperpigmentation depends on the concentration of this compound in a skin care product, which must be between 2 and 5%. Increasing its concentration will not improve its benefits, but carries a risk of irritation.
Derived from lysine, an amino acid naturally present in the skin, tranexamic acid is generally safe when applied to the skin twice a day, morning and evening. On sensitive or irritated skin, its use should initially be limited to once a day. If you notice that the skin tolerates the treatment well, you can then switch to twice-daily application. In the event of irritation or discomfort, discontinue use immediately.
Typology’s Tranexamic Acid Serum With Tetrapeptide-2.
Our hyperpigmentation and lack of firmness serum contains 5% tranexamic acid. This skin care product reduces and prevents the appearance of pigmentation spots and promotes skin firming. The complexion is even, and the skin is smoother and firmer. It also contains acetyl tetrapeptide-2, a peptide composed of four amino acids that stimulate the synthesis of key molecules involved in skin support and firmness: elastin, collagen and fibrillin.
Apply the tranexamic acid serum morning and night to a clean, dry face. To optimize its firming benefits, you can follow this product with retinol face cream. In addition, we strongly recommend that you apply appropriate sun protection to prevent the appearance of new brown spots and minimize the evolution of existing marks over time. Every morning, apply afacial sunscreen enriched with moisturizing agents such as aloe vera and hyaluronic acid. It offers broad-spectrum protection for daily use.
Sources
NAEINI F. F. & al. Topical tranexamic acid as a promising treatment for melasma. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences (2014).
ZHONG S. & al. Topical tranexamic acid improves the permeability barrier in rosacea. Dermatologica Sinica (2015).
JANNEY M. S. & al. A randomized controlled study comparing the efficacy of topical 5% tranexamic acid solution versus 3% hydroquinone cream in melasma. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery (2019).
WANG J. V. & al. Tranexamic acid for melasma: Evaluating the various formulations. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2019).
ETESAMI I & al. Post-acne erythema treatment: A systematic review of the literature. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2022).
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