Tranexamic Acid: the Underrated Ingredient You Need to Target Visible Discoloration

It wasn’t too long ago that many people would hear the word “acid” in skincare products and cringe, imagining their skin turning bright red and peeling off in layers. But today that fear has lessened, and people are embracing acids in skincare. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid, among others, have made big names for themselves, causing a shift in the attitude toward acids in skincare. As more and more skincare acids are garnering attention, we’d like to shift the spotlight onto one you may not have heard of yet: tranexamic acid, which works to target visible skin discoloration. 

Here, a dermatologist breaks down the ingredient — plus, how to incorporate it into your routine.

What Is Tranexamic Acid?

If you’ve ever dealt with dark spots and discoloration, you know that getting marks to fade can take effort, and that’s exactly why tranexamic acid is rising in popularity. According to board-certified dermatologist, SkinCeuticals ambassador and Skincare.com expert Dr. Karan Sra, tranexamic acid is commonly applied topically as a way to help address skin discoloration like melasma. 

If you’re in need of a refresher on what melasma is, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) characterizes melasma as a common skin condition that results in brown or gray-brown patches, typically on the face. Additionally, the National Institute of Biotechnology Information reveals that melasma isn’t the only form of discoloration that tranexamic acid can help. Tranexamic acid can also help diminish the appearance of ultraviolet-induced hyperpigmentation, post-acne marks and stubborn brown patches.

How to Address Discoloration

Watch our video to learn more about targeting discoloration, here.