Tranexamic Acid for Skin: Everything You Need to Know

What are the benefits of tranexamic acid for skin?

Yes, tranexamic acid stops heavy bleeding. But you’re here for the glow-up, right?

Let’s skip to the good part.

Age spots. Liver spots. Sunspots. No matter what you call ‘em, these dark spots crop up due to UV exposure. And if you don’t like the way they look, tranexamic acid might be your new BFF.

In one small 2014 study, 50 folks with UV-induced dark spots applied 3 percent tranexamic acid to one side of their face and 3 percent hydroquinone + 0.01 percent dexamethasone on the other side twice each day for 12 weeks. Researchers discovered that tranexamic acid was just as effective as the more traditional treatment — but with far fewer side effects.

Another 2017 study with 60 participants came to a similar conclusion. While these studies are super small, they’re promising.

Not all dark spots come from the sun. Some folks also get hyperpigmentation from acne. Others develop melasma, a skin condition that causes dark patches on the face. Tranexamic acid to the rescue!

A recent study on a topical tranexamic acid derivative found that applying it 2x a day for 8 weeks reduced hyperpigmentation by 78.6 percent.

Research shows that tranexamic acid combats melasma in 2 ways: shrinking *and* lightening dark patches. Since studies have included everything from 3 percent cream to 5 percent gel, we need more studies to pinpoint the best dose and product.

Tranexamic acid has effectively soothed swelling from hereditary angioedema, a condition characterized by swelling around the eyes, lips, hands, and feet. Sometimes folks with angioedema also experience frequent itchy rashes.

Of course, tranexamic acid’s power to crush swelling from angioedema does *not* mean it’s an automatic #win against irritation. More research is needed to know if it could dial down general redness or puffiness.