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 it used 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, spots can form on the Skin.
Melanin production can become excessive, for example, due to a prolonged sun exposure. The sun's UV rays can actually stimulate melanin production, causing tanning, but also Sunscreen spots. Another case is post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, which occurs when a lesion or inflammation of the Skin, such as acne, leaving a reddish-colored spot.
Finally, hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy or due to taking birth control pills, can cause a condition called melasma, characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the Skin.
Tranexamic acid works precisely in these situations, by blocking excess melanin production and preventing the formation of additional skin blemishes. It can even act as schiarente for existing dyschromia. In this way, it proves to be an important ally for keeping Skin even and limiting imperfections.