Tranexamic acid for an even complexion

Tranexamic acid is a synthetic compound that is similar to the amino acid lysine, which is produced naturally by the body. Tranexamic acid is used in medicine to treat excessive bleeding and can help dissolve blood clots. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect. In cosmetics, tranexamic acid is used to prevent hyperpigmentation of the skin. These pigmentation disorders include:

• Pimple marks
• Age spots
• Pigment spots
• Discolouration of the skin, for example as a result of pregnancy
• Reduction of redness

Tranexamic acid affects melanin production. Melanin is our skin pigment, which is responsible for skin discolouration such as freckles or pigment spots as well as pimple marks. By inhibiting melanin production, tranexamic acid prevents pigmentation from being stimulated in the first place.

Tranexamic acid can also cause existing spots to fade. Lighter skin types in particular benefit from this effect, as it can make the complexion look more even. The best thing about tranexamic acid is that it does not bleach the skin. Instead, the effect is smooth and even. In addition, the translucent reddish colour of the blood vessels directly under the skin can be reduced by using tranexamic acid products. This brightens your overall complexion without having to worry about your skin looking bleached.

When tranexamic acid is used in medicine to stop bleeding, side effects are quite common. However, as the doses used in cosmetic applications are lower and tranexamic acid is only used externally, side effects are rare. Possible tranexamic acid side effects can include redness, itching, scaling of the skin or a burning sensation. However, such reactions only occur in rare cases.

Tranexamic acid works best when it is combined with other active ingredients. Ingredients that support the effect of tranexamic acid are:

• Niacinamide
• Vitamin C
• Brightening plant extracts such as liquorice root

If you combine your tranexamic acid product with serums or creams containing these substances, the brightening effect is enhanced and the result optimised. Sunscreens are also essential for the application of tranexamic acid to prevent further over-pigmentation of the skin. A suitable level of sun protection factor is not only a must in summer, it should be an integral part of your daily skincare routine whatever the season.

You can use tranexamic acid daily if you suffer from skin discolouration, regardless of your skin colour or type and regardless of your age. You can use tranexamic acid all over your face as well as on other areas of your skin or just apply the product to specific areas of discolouration.

It is best to apply your serum or cream with tranexamic acid after cleansing your face in the morning. You can easily combine it with other serums. Then apply your UV protection and you’re ready for the day.

If you want to use your tranexamic acid product in the evening, make sure that you use it before applying a night cream. During your evening routine, you don’t have to worry about combining it with other products or serums and can do so freely – unless you only want to treat individual areas. In this case, you should make sure that the tranexamic acid stays where it should and does not smudge.

If you want an even complexion, products containing tranexamic acid may be just right for you. The soothing, anti-inflammatory effect of the acid also helps with long-term skin problems. Tranexamic acid can be particularly useful for the chronic skin condition rosacea and acne.

• In rosacea, tranexamic acid can have a regulating effect on inflammatory processes in the body that lead to very sensitive skin with redness.
• In acne, the use of tranexamic acid can lighten pimple marks that often remain after the acne has subsided. You should use tranexamic acid for acne scars for at least three months, as it takes time for the results to become visible.

Anyone who is allergic to tranexamic acid should not use cosmetic products containing it as an active ingredient. Anyone suffering from a blood clotting disorder or active thrombosis should also avoid cosmetics containing tranexamic acid to be on the safe side. Tranexamic acid is also a no-go during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, if you have developed pigmentation spots during pregnancy, you can use a product containing tranexamic acid after weaning to lighten the spots again. It also makes sense to use it before pregnancy as a preventative measure.