You’re likely already familiar with common ingredients like Niacinamide and Vitamin C for fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation, but Tranexamic Acid is the lesser-known acid bursting onto the skincare scene. Originally used in medical contexts to treat heavy bleeding, when applied topically it yields amazing results in eradicating those pesky dark marks and brightening your complexion. Read all about Tranexamic Acid below to find out what it is, how it works, and what Tranexamic Acid picks you should add to your daily routine – just keep scrolling to get started.

What is Tranexamic Acid?

Tranexamic Acid is a skincare ingredient commonly used for targeting hyperpigmentation and dullness. It works by inhibiting melanocyte production, which is the type of cell responsible for melanin’s make-up. This occurs and prevents the formulation of melanin, consequently fading existing dark spots and preventing future ones from forming.

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - numbuzin

What are the benefits of Tranexamic Acid?

As Tranexamic Acid targets melanin and hyperpigmentation, it’s an effective treatment for treating dark spots – think sun spots, freckles and melasma – and enhancing skin luminosity. This ingredient can balance an uneven skin tone and restore your complexion to a glowing state. If you’re combatting post-acne marks or scars, Tranexamic Acid also helps to visibly reduce them, in addition to calming redness.

What skin types is Tranexamic Acid for?

Tranexamic Acid is generally safe for all skin types to use in the AM and PM. As in all cases, if you have particularly sensitive skin make sure to spot-test Tranexamic Acid before you apply it to your full face.

What to look out for when using Tranexamic Acid

When using Tranexamic Acid in the AM, ensure to follow up with SPF to allow it to work as effectively as possible. Sunscreen will prevent UV damage that triggers melanin formation, allowing Tranexamic Acid to get to work.

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Haruharu WONDER

How does Tranexamic Acid compare to other brightening ingredients?

Derms state Tranexamic Acid works as well as other brightening ingredients, such as Vitamin C; in this particular comparison, the former specifically targets hyperpigmentation while the latter addresses overall skin health and signs of aging. Both deliver similar benefits with identifiable features that separate them from each other.

Best Skincare Products with Tranexamic Acid

No. 1

numbuzin - No.5 Vitamin-Niacinamide Concentrated Pad

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - numbuzin

Tranexamic Acid is just one of the many brightening ingredients formulated into the numbuzin No.5 Vitamin-Niacinamide Concentrated Pad. This formula is a luminosity powerhouse that harnesses the benefits of Glutathione, Vitamin C and Niacinamide to restore brightness to your skin. Swipe on the jelly Glutathione side to treat your dull skin concerns, and remember to smooth out your complexion with the opposite gauze side.

No. 2

ANUA - Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Dark Spot Removing Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - ANUA

The ANUA Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Dark Spot Removing Serum completely deserves its viral status and here’s what you need to know: this booster combines Niacinamide and Tranexamic Acid with Arbutin to fade dark spots and eradicate dullness, at the same time hydrating the complexion with Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramide. It’s this double duty that gets you that glass skin look and feel, no matter your skin type.

No. 3

Haruharu WONDER - Centella 4% TXA Dark Spot Go Away Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Haruharu WONDER

Think of the Haruharu WONDER Centella 4% TXA Dark Spot Go Away Serum as the lightswitch for your skin: it provides intensive care with a mixture of Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide and Vitamin C to promote a brighter, smoother complexion, nixing dark spots and fortifying the skin barrier in the process. A quick-absorbing gel formula that’s vegan-friendly, it sinks into the skin without stickiness upon application and imparts a refreshing sensation.

No. 4

Mary&May - Tranexamic Acid+Glutathione Eye Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Mary&May

If late nights and poor sleep has resulted in dark undereye circles, let the Mary&May Tranexamic Acid+Glutathione Eye Cream come to the rescue. Its titular ingredients block melanin production and brighten the skin to correct darkness, while Vitamin C supports collagen production to plump up sagging skin and iron out wrinkles. The rich and nourishing cream texture can also be used to spot-treat blemishes and dark spots anywhere on the face.

No. 5

APLB - Tranexamic Acid Niacinamide Ampoule Serum + Facial Cream Set

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - APLB

Load up on Tranexamic Acid’s illuminating benefits with our APLB Tranexamic Acid Niacinamide Ampoule Serum + Facial Cream Set, curated for daily use to treat and moisturize your complexion. Both products maintain a healthy pH level, include Centella Asiatica in their formulas for a soothing touch, and skip out on the harmful ingredients, making it suitable for all skin types and anyone with sensitive skin.

No. 6

Viegano - Licorice Root + Tranexamic Acid Vegan Brightening Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Viegano

The effects of Tranexamic Acid are multiplied when it's used in conjunction with other brightening ingredients, which is why the Viegano Licorice Root + Tranexamic Acid Vegan Brightening Serum is so effective. Our key ingredient joins forces with Licorice Root, Arbutin and Niacinamide to zero in on hyperpigmentation and skin tone dullness, visibly brightening the complexion. In the meantime, Sodium Hyaluronate dives into the deepest layers of the dermis to provide hydration that supports bouncy and plump skin.

Get to fading your dark spots and dullness by adding Tranexamic Acid to your routine today! Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!