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In the world of skincare, it seems as if every other day there's a new buzzy ingredient that promises to give you newborn-level collagen or smoothness that rivals a freshly Botoxed complexion. As a result, many people have become skeptical of lesser-known ingredients that suddenly come into the spotlight, and rightfully so. However, every now and then the praise is warranted. Case in point: tranexamic acid.
The ingredient is known for its powerful brightening properties that are comparable to those of vitamin C and kakadu plum. Specifically, it's celebrated for its ability to even out stubborn discoloration. As such, it's become incredibly popular amongst those living with melasma, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, or red-splotched complexions. With continued use, the intensity of such discoloration lessens and overall brightness improves.
Considering the overwhelming amount of information flooding through SkinTok, we decided to simplify everything there is to know about tranexamic acid by turning to the pros. Below, we spoke to two dermatologists and a cosmetic chemist to learn about this skincare ingredient. For more information on its benefits and potential side effects to how to best integrate it into your routine, keep scrolling.
Meet the Expert
- Gary Goldenberg, MD, is a dermatologist at Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC.
- Kristina Goldenberg, MD, is a dermatologist at Goldenberg Dermatology in NYC.
- Ron Robinson is a cosmetic chemist and the founder of BeautyStat cosmetics.
What Is Tranexamic Acid?
Unlike most acids, tranexamic acid doesn't fall under the umbrella of an alpha or beta hydroxy acid. Instead, it's derived from an amino acid and "helps to reduce the look of hyperpigmentation," explains cosmetic chemist, Ron Robinson explains. In other words, it can help lighten dark spots. A synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine, tranexamic acid is described by the skincare wizzes at SkinCeuticals as "a powerful ingredient recognized for its ability to brighten skin complexion and improve the appearance of discoloration." And several notable skincare brands (including SkinCeuticals, Joanna Vargas, Shiseido, and SkinMedica, to name a few) have infused it into some of their game-changing formulas.
Tranexamic Acid
Type of Ingredient: Acid
Main benefits: Fades discoloration, brightens skin, reduces the appearance of acne scars.
Who should use it: Generally, tranexamic acid is safe for all skin types. Those with super sensitive skin or eczema should do a test on the inside of the wrist before use, just to be safe.
How often you can use it: Ideally, tranexamic acid-containing products would be applied twice a day, but some experts suggest starting with one application per day to see how it reacts with your skin.
Works well with: Vitamin C, SPF, hyaluronic acid, and retinol.
Don't use with: Multiple different acids; stick to a combination of just one or two additional acid products to avoid dryness.
Benefits of Tranexamic Acid for Skin
Tranexamic acid is on the World Health Organization's (WHO) List of Essential Medicines because it has historically been used to treat or stop excessive loss of blood in various situations including major trauma and surgery. In 1979 however, a medical professional accidentally discovered the skin benefits of tranexamic acid, when a patient of his taking the medication for chronic urticaria also experienced lightening of skin discoloration. The ingredient pairs beautifully with other brightening and skin-repairing saviors like vitamin C and your favorite SPF (which will help prevent damage and ensuing discoloration from the get-go).
Potential Side Effects of Tranexamic Acid
Although tranexamic acid is probably safe for most skin types, it's always important to consult with a dermatologist before incorporating a new ingredient and product into your skincare routine. Some reported side effects of using tranexamic acid-containing products include irritation, dryness, and flaky skin. While tranexamic acid "is compatible with many other skincare ingredients," Robinson cautions that "it can be irritating to those with very sensitive skin."
Dermatologist, Gary Goldenberg, suggests adding possibly irritating ingredients, like acids, one at a time. Starting too many new products at once can do more harm than good, overwhelming your skin and causing redness or flakiness.
How to Use Tranexamic Acid
Since tranexamic acid is fairly gentle on its own, you can combine it with other skincare ingredients to maximize the benefits. "I like combining this with a retinol; I like combining it with a chemical peel; it's definitely a good adjunct to treating melasma, but it's not enough on its own," dermatologist, Kristina Goldenberg, says. Combining it with vitamin C or kojic acid maximizes its brightening power, ensuring you get the most out of the ingredient.
The best way to apply tranexamic acid? "I do love using acids in a serum," Dr. Goldenberg says. Adding that he thinks, "the best vehicle is the one that's formulated by a good manufacturer." Essentially, whatever your skin most agrees with is best. Just remember to always follow up with a moisturizer, like the CeraVe AM and PM moisturizer.
The Best Skincare Products With Tranexamic Acid
We like the Joanna Vargas Bright Eye Hydrating Mask. With tranexamic acid as one of its starring ingredients, it works well to resurrect lifeless, shadowy under-eyes. The ingredient roster also boasts peptides that may help plump skin, allantoin, and a licorice root derivative to combat inflammation.
In terms of serums, our favorites include SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum and SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense. They both tap other brighteners such as niacinamide or kojic acid to tackle discoloration.
As one of SkinCeuticals' buzziest launches, this elixir comes in clutch for anyone suffering from lingering sun damage, acne scarring, melasma, and/or hyperpigmentation. With its strategic melding of pigmentation-busting acids (like tranexamic and kojic) plus an extra dose of niacinamide for good measure, it's one of the best serums on the market for combating unwanted discoloration.
Price tag-wise, this heavy-duty serum from cult-loved skincare brand Clé de Peau Beauté isn't for the faint of heart. If you're seeking results by way of ultra-luxurious means, though, then you've met your match. Chock-full of lust-worthy fare like peony, cinnamon extract, hyaluronic acid, mangosteen, raspberry, black tea, and, yes, tranexamic acid, it'll provide major bang for your buck.
Meant to combat dullness and uneven texture, this Murad peel utilizes tranexamic acid along with an AHA blend. The combination of the two acids helps to improve skin clarity over time. Murad also makes a serum especially for dark spots.
This intensive formula employs a 15 percent active brightening complex, to lessen the look of dark spots and post-blemish marks.
For those who want to try out tranexamic acid without spending too much, this formula by Good Molecules is a budget-friendly option. It pairs tranexamic acid with hyaluronic acid for moisture and niacinamide for both brightening and hydration. This triple-threat combo helps fade discoloration, moisturize dehydrated skin, and brighten a dull complexion. Simply apply a few drops before your other oils and moisturizer and you're good to go.