There are a lot of acids and active skincare ingredients that provide several benefits when added to a daily skincare regimen. Tranexamic acid is one such lesser-known active ingredient that can help with several skin issues, such as skin discolouration, melasma, hyperpigmentation, etc.
While using tranexamic acid for skin can be great, its benefits are still quite unknown to the general public. This article aims to fix that by providing more information about tranexamic acid to help you understand why you should be adding this to your regimen.
What is Tranexamic Acid for Skin?
Tranexamic acid is a synthesised amino acid made from lysine. When administered topically, it functions by disrupting at least two pathways in the skin that, might cause discolouration (e.g., black spots and brown or grey patches). It is also helpful for melasma-prone skin.
Another thing that makes this new acid a great addition to your skincare regimen is the fact that it is safe to use on all skin types. Not only that, it is also safe to use for pregnant women, though it never hurts anyone to get a doctor’s consultation beforehand anyway.
Tranexamic acid also seems to work inside the skin’s outermost layers to make it less sensitive to UV radiation exposure, allowing the skin to keep its youthful appearance (though sunscreen is still required for adequate protection). Tranexamic acid has previously been used primarily in the form of oral medication. It’s usually prescribed by doctors to treat melasma and heavy bleeding issues during menstruation.
Benefits: What Does Tranexamic Acid Do for Skin?
If you are unaware of the benefits of tranexamic acid, let’s have a quick look here:
Make the Skin Barrier Stronger
The outermost layer of skin takes on the role of a shield that keeps moisture and hydration locked in while keeping all the harmful substances and toxins outside of our body. Studies have reported that tranexamic acid has the property to repair the skin barrier. It can also help with skin repair if you’re suffering from conditions like rosacea.
Reduce Dark Spots and Discolouration on the Skin
To answer your question about what is tranexamic acid for skin, this is one of the main reasons why you should add this active ingredient to your regimen. Tranexamic acid is a great brightening agent and can help reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation issues. Studies have been conducted that show that people using this ingredient for at least 12 weeks have seen a good recovery from spots caused by a skin issue called melasma.
Reduce Discolouration Issues After Damage from Acne and Sun
Acne can oftentimes cause an issue called post-inflammatory erythema. These are simply discoloured red, purple, and pink patches that randomly appear on the skin’s surface. Tranexamic acid for skin can be a great way to deal with this kind of issue directly. This is also known to help with discolouration issues caused by UV-ray damage. Studies have shown that using this acid for around 8 weeks has shown good results in reducing these kinds of marks.
Tranexamic Acid for Skin Side Effects and Issues
While this acid is extremely safe to use by anyone. There are a certain number of side effects and issues that may arise after using it. One thing to remember is that those who take tranexamic acid for skin oral ways, are at higher risk of these effects. Listed below are certain side effects that you might suffer from if you add tranexamic acid to your regimen:
- Skin dryness
- Feeling of itchiness
- Flaking of the skin
- Unwavering skin discolouration
- Random swelling and/or hive-like symptoms.
Conclusion
Tranexamic acid for skin is extremely beneficial and can be a great way to deal with different kinds of pigmentation issues. It is a fairly new ingredient that has been introduced to the skincare industry and is mostly safe for use by anyone. It helps repair the skin’s barrier, reduce discolouration, and treat acne and sun damage.
While it’s safe to use, there are certain side effects that you should be on the lookout for, such as dryness, flakiness, itchiness, etc. Always consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of these side effects.
