Tranexamic acid is a recently introduced active ingredient in skincare. Its scientifically proven lightening properties effectively fight hyperpigmentation, such as sun spots, pregnancy masks and post-acne marks. But are there any warnings or side effects to the use of tranexamic acid?
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Possible Tranexamic Acid Side Effects.
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Tranexamic Acid, a New Active Ingredient To Reduce Pigmentation Spots.
Tranexamic acid is a synthetic analog of lysine. In the medical sector, either orally or by injection, tranexamic acid has been used for some fifty years for its anti-hemorrhagic properties. In fact, this molecule is on the World Health Organization's (WHO) list of essential medicines.
In cosmetics, tranexamic acid has only been incorporated at a low dosage into certain skincare products for the past ten years. Studies have demonstrated its ability to control pigmentation by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators involved in triggering melanogenesis. As a result, it is effective in combating all three types of hyperpigmentation: melasma caused by hormonal imbalances, lentigo due to excessive and repeated sun exposure, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation resulting from overproduction of melanin after wounds, burns, blemishes, or acne flare-ups.
What Are the Tranexamic Acid Side Effects in Cosmetics?
First, to be effective on pigmentation spots, the dosage of tranexamic acid in a skincare product must be between 2 and 5%. Increasing its concentration does not improve its effects, but is linked to warnings of irritation.
The side effects of tranexamic acid applied topically were reported in a 2014 study of melasma attenuation with this molecule. The study indicates that the most common ones are skin dryness, irritation and sometimes increased desquamation. To avoid this type of skin inconvenience, it is recommended to apply a moisturizing cream following a treatment with tranexamic acid.
If the skin tolerates this compound well from the outset, tranexamic acid can be used twice a day, morning and evening (it is not photo-sensitizing). On sensitive skin, its use should initially be limited to once a day, to allow the epidermis time to get used to this new molecule.
It's important to point out that if slight
redness initially appears, this doesn't
necessarily mean you have to stop using
tranexamic acid skin care products altogether.
However, in the event of excessive irritation or discomfort, discontinue use of the product immediately.
Typology’s Tranexamic Acid Serum for Hyperpigmentation and Lack of Firmness.
The hyperpigmentation and lack of firmness serum contains a 5% tranexamic acid dosage. This treatment reduces and prevents the appearance of pigmentation spots, such as melasma, and promotes skin firming. The complexion is even, the skin smoother and firmer. It also contains acetyl tetrapeptide-2, a peptide composed of four amino acids that stimulates the synthesis of key molecules involved in skin support and firmness: elastin, collagen and fibrillin.
To counteract the slightly drying side effect of tranexamic acid, apply a face cream such as our nourishing face cream with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, morning and night.
Source
EBRAHIMI B. & al. Topical tranexamic acid as a promising treatment for melasma. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences (2014).
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