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Tranexamic Acid

What is tranexamic acid? 

Tranexamic acid (sometimes referred to as TXA) is a synthetically created molecule. It’s very similar in structure to an amino acid called lysine. An important part of our diet that can be found in foods like tofu, spirulina, and eggs, lysine plays a central role in promoting the growth of collagen in the skin., 

Designated as an Essential Medicine by the World Health Organization, Tranexamic acid has long been used to treat excessive blood loss.3 In 1979, a healthcare professional serendipitously discovered that TXA helped fade dark spots, too, when their patient reported brighter skin after a few weeks of treatment.

Tranexamic acid can be a huge help for anyone struggling with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, splotchy patches, redness, or just about any sort of uneven skin tone. Research suggests that it may have both anti-pigmentation and anti-inflammatory effects.5 This skin-brightening powerhouse helps minimize, reduce, and prevent the appearance of surface pigmentation by interfering with the interaction of melanin-forming cells (also known as melanocytes).6 Tranexamic acid is a key ingredient in ALASTIN’s A-LUMINATE BRIGHTENING Serum™, which has been shown in a clinical study to make skin appear brighter and more radiant for 90 percent of people after 12 weeks of use. In the same study, 86 percent of people agreed that their appearance of dark spots and discoloration diminished after just 8 weeks.^

Tranexamic acid has been shown to have a number of benefits—all in the name of brighter-looking skin. Benefits include:
  • Reducing the appearance of unwanted pigmentation and dark spots
  • Fading the look of redness or purple splotches
  • Preventing the look of dark spots before they occur
  • Improving the look of sun damage
  • Promoting a more even skin tone7
  • Creating the look of brighter, more luminous skin over time

Yes, products with tranexamic acid like A-LUMINATE BRIGHTENING Serum™ can (and usually should) be paired with moisturizer. The two work well together to help protect, treat, and hydrate the skin. A general rule of thumb while applying skincare is to go from least to most heavy. That means layering on your tranexamic acid product first, followed by a moisturizer like Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer with TriHex Technology® or Ultra Light Moisturizer with TriHex Technology®, and topped with sun protection like HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 or SilkSHIELD® All Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30.

Products with tranexamic acid can be paired safely with retinol. Dermatologists may suggest layering tranexamic acid first followed by retinol (like Renewal Retinol) in the evening. If you have more sensitive skin, you may choose to use your tranexamic acid product as part of your morning routine and stave the retinol for nighttime.

Tranexamic acid is safe for most skin types. Side effects reported are generally very mild, but may include slight irritation, flaking, scaling, or dryness. A-LUMINATE BRIGHTENING Serum™ includes hydrating ingredients to combat these potential effects. It’s always a good idea to do a patch test of a new product before applying to the full face.

Skincare Featuring Tranexamic Acid