Thebrightening virtuesof thetranexamic acid were recently discovered by a healthcare professional. While his patient was taking this molecule to treat his chronic urticaria, he observed a lightening and discolouration of his skin. This molecule subsequently proved to be just as effective in external use. How does tranexamic acid reduce the appearance of sun spots? How to use it daily in this sense? Elements of response in this article.
Sunspots: What effect does tranexamic acid have on this type of hyperpigmentation?
Summary
Published on July 17, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 5 min of reading
Themes:
What exactly are sunspots?
Solar spots or lentigos are pigmented spots caused by adisruption in the pigmentation process (melanogenesis). The melanin, pigment responsible for the natural colouration of the skin, is overproduced in certain areas which leads to the appearance of brown spots.
As we age, the functions of melanocytes, cells capable of producing melanin, become disrupted. The production of melanin becomes erratic, leading to the emergence of spots or solar lentigines in the most exposed areas (hands, face, décolletage, back, arms...). Even though these lesions are benign, some individuals may find them unsightly and wish to eliminate them. Tranexamic acid is a particularly effective active ingredient for diminishing the appearance of these brown spots.
How does tranexamic acid work against lentigines?
The exact mechanism of reduction of the melanogenesis by tranexamic acid remains unidentified to this day. However, several key elements have been highlighted by various studies.
Tranexamic acid inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators (arachidonic acid and prostaglandins) involved in the triggering of melanogenesis.
It blocks the interactions between melanocytes and keratinocytes (cells of the epidermis).
Tranexamic acid is structurally similar to tyrosinase, an enzyme that activates the oxidation of tyrosine, leading to the production of melanin. This competitive inhibition of the enzyme's active site blocks its activity and consequently the synthesis of melanin. The equation is simple: less tyrosine and less melanin means fewer pigments, fewer brown spots, and a more even complexion.
Thus, through these various actions, skincare products containing tranexamic acid are effective in reducing the appearance of sunspots. It should be noted, this compound should be introduced at a concentration ranging between 1 and 5%.
In which Typology skincare product can one find tranexamic acid?
Ourhyperpigmentation and firmness serumcontains 5% oftranexamicacid. This treatment reduces and prevents the appearance of pigmentation spots, particularly lentigines, and promotes skin firming.The complexion is even, the skin is smoother and firmer. It also containsacetyltetrapeptide-2, apeptidecomposed of four amino acids that stimulate the synthesis of key molecules involved in skin support and firmness: elastin, collagen and fibrillin. This serum is applied morning and evening on clean, dry face.
To optimise the firming and anti-spot benefits of this treatment, you can follow this serum with aretinol face cream.Furthermore, it is strongly recommended to apply suitable sun protection to prevent the appearance of new brown spots and to minimise the progression of current marks over time. Every morning, apply a face sun cream enriched with hydrating agents, such asaloe vera andhyaluronic acid. It offers broad-spectrum protection suitable for daily use.
Sources
E. Forbat, F. Ali and F. Al-Niaimi, The rising significance of tranexamic acid in dermatology, Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, (2019).
Aleksandra L. Lindgren,a Andrea H. Austin MD FAAD,b Kathleen M. The Use of Tranexamic Acid to Prevent and Treat Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, (2021)
