What is it?
Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine (one of the essential amino acids), which has an anti-plasmin effect: by inhibiting the activation of plasminogen to plasmin, tranexamic acid suppresses the enzyme that causes inflammation and blocks it to reduce UV-induced pigmentation.
In other words, it is a substance used to reduce inflammation and even out skin tone. Not only does it protect us from damage caused by UV rays, but it also contributes to reduce existing signs of pigmentation, such as dark spots.
What is this for?
Tranexamic acid, when applied to the skin, works by regulating melanin production. Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of our skin, eyes, and hair. Under normal circumstances, a certain amount of melanin is necessary and healthy, but when production becomes excessive, dark spots can form on the skin.
Melanin production can become excessive, for example, due to prolonged sun exposure. The sun's UV rays can stimulate melanin production, causing a tan, but also sun spots. Another condition is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which occurs when skin irritation or injury, such as acne, leaves a reddish spot.
Finally, hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy or from taking birth control pills, can cause a condition called melasma, which is marked by the appearance of dark spots on the skin.
Tranexamic acid targets exactly these situations, blocking excessive melanin production and preventing the formation of additional dark spots. It can even act as a brightening for existing discoloration. In this way, it proves to be an important ally for maintaining an even skin tone and reducing imperfections.