What Skincare Products Contain Tranexamic Acid?

Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. When ingested, it is used to treat excessive blood loss caused by major trauma, surgery, post-partum bleeding and heavy menstruation, thanks to its ability to coagulate.

Tranexamic acid is a recent addition to the skin care market. Unlike other acids used in cosmetics (glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, etc.), tranexamic acid does not exfoliate the skin, but disrupts excessive melanin production, which causes hyperpigmentation. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory.

Tranexamic acid inhibits UV-induced melanin synthesis by blocking the interaction between keratinocytes (skin cells) and melanocytes (melanin-producing cells). It acts specifically on epidermal-type melasma (or pregnancy mask), sun spots and post-acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). In addition, a 2015 study found that a topical treatment with 3% tranexamic acid for 2 weeks improved the visible signs of rosacea. Researchers linked this reduction in symptoms to an improvement in the skin barrier.

First of all, to be effective on pigmentation spots, the concentration of tranexamic acid usually ranges from 2 to 5% in a skincare product. Secondly, this active ingredient is still quite rare in cosmetic formulas. The types of skincare products in which this compound can be added are acidic tonic lotions, anti-spot serums and eye contour creams to combat dark circles.

Note: Tranexamic acid is generally not harmful to all skin types and is well tolerated. However, there's no need to add it to your beauty routine if your skin is free from pigmentation spots.