Oral Efficacy ★★★★★ (Excellent)
Topical Efficacy ★★★☆☆ (Moderate)
Safety ★★★★★ (Very safe)
Research ★★★★★ (50+ studies)
What is tranexamic acid
Tranexamic acid is an ingredient that helps reduce dark spots on the skin, especially melasma. Originally it was a medication to stop bleeding, but doctors discovered it also works for skin lightening and brightening.
Сhemical formula of tranexamic acid
How it works: It blocks the signals that tell the skin to produce melanin (the dark pigment). It's like turning off the light switch before the light comes on.
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO KNOW
Not all forms of tranexamic acid work the same way!
Oral Pills
Efficacy: ★★★★★ Excellent
Dark spot reduction: 27-40% in 3 months
Drawback: Requires doctor visit (prescription needed)
Injections
Efficacy: ★★★★☆ Very good
Dark spot reduction: 25-35%
Drawback: Painful, expensive, multiple sessions required
Standard Creams (2-5%)
Efficacy: ★★★☆☆ Medium-low
Dark spot reduction: 4-27% (highly variable!)
Drawback: The molecule doesn't penetrate skin well because it's water-soluble
Advantage: Easy to use at home, safe
Creams with Advanced Forms (e.g. cetyl tranexamate)
Efficacy: ★★★★☆ Good
Penetration: +283% compared to standard creams
Advantage: Works better than standard creams without needing injections
Concentration: How Much Do You Need?
Scientific research shows:
- 2-3% = Works well
- 5% = Perfect standard, most used in studies
- 10% = Does NOT work better than 5%!
Why isn't 10% better than 5%?
Problem: The standard molecule struggles to penetrate the skin. Applying more product on the surface doesn't help if it can't get inside.
Analogy: It's like pouring more water on a raincoat - it still won't get through!
Solution: You need a form that penetrates better (like Cetyl Tranexamate), not a higher concentration.
What it really works for
Works well for:
Melasma (dark spots on cheeks, forehead)
Post-acne marks (when used preventively)
Redness + dark spots together (reduces both!)
After laser/peeling (prevents new dark spots)
Does NOT work for:
Natural freckles
Very old age spots
Birthmarks or moles
How long does it take?
To see first results:
2-4 weeks: redness decreases
6-8 weeks: dark spots start to lighten
12 weeks: maximum result
Important: It takes PATIENCE! It's not instant magic.
Is it safe?
YES, very safe for topical use (creams)
Rare side effects:
- Mild redness or tingling (2-3% of people)
- Much less irritating than hydroquinone
Safety comparison:
- Hydroquinone: 15-25% side effects
- Tranexamic acid: <3% side effects
Contraindications (oral pills):
- If you've had thrombosis
- During pregnancy/breastfeeding
- If taking birth control pills (consult your doctor)
How to use it correctly
If using cream:
- When: Morning and evening after cleansing
- Amount: Few drops, thin layer
- Duration: Minimum 12 weeks to see results
- ESSENTIAL: Always apply SPF 50 during the day!
What to combine:
Works well with:
- Niacinamide (they enhance each other!)
- Vitamin C
- Azelaic Acid
- Retinoids (but separate: retinoids in the evening only)
Caution with:
Strong exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA 10%+) - may cause irritation
Don't combine:
No dangerous combinations!
Which form should you choose?
If you want to use cosmetic products at home:
Choose cream with high-penetration form (Cetyl Tranexamate Mesylate)
- Works 3 times better than standard creams
- Easy to use
- Safe
Quick Summary
Question | Answer |
Does it work? | Yes, but depends on the form |
Best concentration? | 2-5% (more than 5% is useless!) |
How long? | 12 weeks minimum |
Is it safe? | Yes, very safe topically |
Need sun protection? | YES, SPF 50 MANDATORY! |
Best form for home use? | Cetyl Tranexamate (high penetration) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Creams yes (topical is safe), oral pills NO (consult your gynecologist)
Yes! In fact, most studies were conducted primarily on Asian skin
Better to continue at reduced frequency (3x/week) as maintenance therapy
It's probably standard tranexamic acid that doesn't penetrate well. You need a high-bioavailability form
No, it's a waste! Better to use quality 5% or advanced form
Further information
Want to know more about advanced high penetration shapes?
→ Read: Cetyl tranexamate mesylate - Advanced Form
Products with tranexamic acid
Melicor skin care:
Lumicor cream - Contains 5% Tranexamic Acid (highly bioavailable form)
Scientific references
- Study 1: Oral vs Topical vs Intradermal Efficacy (Meta-analysis)
Efficacy of Oral, Topical, and Intradermal Tranexamic Acid in Patients with Melasma — A Meta-Analysis
Indian Journal of Dermatology, 2024 - Study 2: Review on different administration routes
Tranexamic acid in melasma: A focused review on drug administration routes
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2023 - Study 3: Randomized Clinical Trial - Oral vs Topical
Randomized Clinical Trial on the Efficacy of Oral Tranexamic Acid Versus Topical Tranexamic Acid in Treatment of Melasma
Dermatology Research and Practice, 2024 - Study 4: Optimal concentrations 2-5%
Pilot Clinical Safety and Efficacy Evaluation of a Topical 3% Tranexamic Acid Cream
Cosmetics, 2024 - Study 5: Comprehensive oral use review
Oral Tranexamic Acid for the Treatment of Melasma: A Review
Dermatologic Surgery, 2018