BrighteningDepigmentingAnti-inflammatory

Tranexamic Acid

🏆 hero ingredient Tier 1 Evidence

what it does

A synthetic lysine derivative that disrupts the UV-induced melanin pathway and reduces inflammation-triggered pigmentation. Clinical evidence supports its use for melasma, PIH, and rosacea.

dermai take

Melasma's main nemesis. Originally a blood-clotting drug that someone noticed also erased dark spots — classic accidental skincare discovery. Fewer side effects than hydroquinone, different mechanism. The new gold standard for stubborn discolouration.

targets these concerns

Hyperpigmentation Sun Damage

the studies

"Oral tranexamic acid treats papulopustular rosacea by improving the skin barrier."

Journal of cosmetic dermatology (2024) · Xu Z, Yu B, Xu B et al.

"The effectiveness and safety of 3% tranexamic acid cream vs. 4% hydroquinone cream for mixed-type melasma in skin of color: a double-blind, split-face, randomized controlled trial."

Acta dermatovenerologica Alpina, Pannonica, et Adriatica (2024) · Yasnova N, Sirait SP, Rahmayunita G

"Tranexamic Acid for Melasma Treatment: A Split-Face Study."

Dermatologic surgery (2020) · Ebrahim HM, Said Abdelshafy A, Khattab F et al.