The brightening effect of tranexamic acid was recently discovered by a doctor. When his patient took this molecule to treat his chronic hives, he observed brightening and discoloration of the skin. The molecule later proved to be equally effective when applied topically. How does tranexamic acid soften the appearance of sun spots? How can it be used for this purpose in everyday life? In this article, you will find answers to these questions.
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What Effect Does Tranexamic Acid Have Against Sunspots?
Summary
- What Are Sunspots?
- How Does Tranexamic Acid Work Against Lentigos?
- In Which Typology Care Product Is Tranexamic Acid Present?
- Sources
Published February 27, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
6 min read
Topics:
What Are Sunspots?
Sun spots or Lentigos are pigment spots caused by a disturbance in the pigmentation process (melanogenesis). The pigment melanin, which is responsible for the natural coloration of the skin, is overproduced in certain areas, resulting in brown spots.
With age, the functions of melanocytes, the cells that can produce melanin, are disrupted. Melanin production becomes irregular, leading to the appearance of sun spots or Lentigos on the most exposed areas (hands, face, décolleté, back, arms...). Even if these lesions are harmless, some people find them unsightly and want to remove them. Tranexamic acid is a particularly effective agent that softens the appearance of these brown spots.
How Does Tranexamic Acid Work Against Lentigos?
The exact mechanism by which tranexamic acid reduces melanogenesis has not been determined to date. Nevertheless, several key elements have been identified in various studies.
Tranexamic acid inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators (arachidonic acid and prostaglandins) involved in triggering melanogenesis.
It blocks the interaction 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 thus melanin synthesis. The equation is simple: less tyrosine and less melanin mean less pigment, fewer brown spots and a more even complexion.
So, via these various effects, skincare products containing tranexamic acid are effective in softening the appearance of sun spots. Note that this compound must be present in a concentration between 1 and 5%.
In Which Typology Care Product Is Tranexamic Acid Present?
Our serum for hyperpigmentation and lack of firmness contains 5% tranexamic acid. This product reduces and prevents the appearance of pigmentation spots, especially lentigos, and promotes skin firmness. The complexion is even, the skin is smoother and more firm. The serum also contains acetyltetrapeptide-2, a peptide of four amino acids that promotes the synthesis of key molecules involved in supporting and tightening the skin: Elastin, Collagen and Fibrillin. This serum is applied morning and evening on a clean and dry face.
To optimize the firming and anti-pigmentation benefits of this care, you can use the face cream with retinol after this serum. In addition, it is highly recommended to apply an appropriate sunscreen to prevent the appearance of new dark spots and minimize the long-term development of current spots. Apply a facial sunscreen enriched with moisturizing ingredients such as aloe vera and hyaluronic acid every morning. It provides broad-spectrum protection that is suitable for daily use.
Sources
E. Forbat, F. Ali and F. Al-Niaimi, The emerging importance 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)
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