What Does Tranexamic Acid Do for Skin?

November 03, 2025

By: Lauren Sindel

Dermatologists love it, but what does tranexamic acid do for skin?

Tranexamic acid is the trending skincare ingredient dermatologists swear by for dark spots and hyperpigmentation. And it’s a key ingredient in Truly’s New! The Brightening Face Serum which visibly improves skin tone from the first bottle.

Keep reading to hear what tranexamic acid is, how it works, and the benefits of tranexamic acid for skin.

What Does Tranexamic Acid Do for Skin?

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a natural brightening ingredient that helps treat dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone. It works by reducing excess melanin production to promote brighter, more even-looking skin. What’s more, topical tranexamic acid helps treat acne and supports the skin barrier.

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✓ Features tranexamic acid & vitamin C

✓ Visibly brightens and reduces hyperpigmentation

✓ Dermatologist-Tested & Fragrance-Free

Tranexamic acid can be found in Truly’s The Brightening Face Serum. A derm-tested, fragrance free formula made with a brightening blend of tranexamic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide to reduce dark spots, fade hyperpigmentation, and leave skin instantly radiant.

What is Tranexamic Acid in Skincare?

Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of lysine, an amino acid that boosts skin hydration, collagen production, and tissue repair. It’s not an exfoliating acid, but it does have brightening properties for the skin.

Tranexamic acid was originally developed as a medication to control heavy menstrual bleeding. Today, it is used in skincare products to reduce excess melanin production, hyperpigmentation, and redness.

How Does Tranexamic Acid Work?

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Tranexamic acid is an active ingredient with powerful brightening action. It works by slowing down the activity of tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for melanin production, while also blocking the transfer of melanin to the skin’s surface, where it shows up as dark spots and discoloration.

When your skin is exposed to the sun, tyrosinase can go into overdrive, producing excess melanin that leads to dark spots and uneven tone. Paired with daily sunscreen use, tranexamic acid helps minimize visible hyperpigmentation and brightens targeted areas for a more radiant, even complexion.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is another common form of discoloration that tranexamic acid can help improve. It occurs when the skin produces excess melanin in response to inflammation or injury—such as acne, eczema, or irritation. By calming inflammation and regulating melanin production, tranexamic acid helps fade PIH over time, revealing smoother, clearer looking skin.

Benefits of Tranexamic Acid for Skin

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Tranexamic acid offers a range of skin-enhancing benefits, making it a must-have for those targeting dullness, dark spots, or uneven tone. Here’s what tranexamic does for your skin.

Fades Hyperpigmentation

Tranexamic acid helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or acne. By regulating melanin production, it gradually evens out sun spots and dark patches, and promotes a clearer complexion.

Clinical studies show that topical Tranexamic Acid (TXA) effectively reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation. A randomized trial of 42 Korean women using a cream with 2% TXA plus 2% niacinamide demonstrated significantly greater improvement in irregular facial pigmentation versus vehicle control.

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Reduces Dark Spots and Discoloration

This powerful ingredient targets excess melanin, helping to visibly minimize stubborn dark spots and uneven skin tone.

Research indicates that tranexamic acid not only affects melanin production but also mitigates the transfer of melanin to the skin’s surface. One study of a peeling system combining azelaic acid with TXA found that over six weeks, participants had a measurable reduction in dark spot number, area and perimeter, along with improved skin brightness.

Brightens and Boosts Radiance

A natural brightening agent, tranexamic acid enhances radiance and gives the complexion a luminous, healthy glow. Regular use can leave skin looking revitalized and refreshed.

In addition to direct effects on pigmentation, several studies report that TXA‑based formulations contribute to overall skin radiance and tone improvement. A clinical evaluation of a serum containing 3% TXA, 1% kojic acid and 5% niacinamide in Brazilian subjects showed improvements in skin texture, tone homogeneity and melanin index as early as Week 2.

Soothes Redness

Tranexamic acid also helps calm skin inflammation, which can cause redness and post-inflammatory dark spots. Studies show that using TXA topically or in serums can reduce visible redness and help prevent new skin discoloration caused by irritation, leaving skin looking calmer and more even.

How to Use Tranexamic Acid in Your Skincare Routine

According to dermatologists, you should apply tranexamic acid once daily after cleansing. Apply a small amount of your tranexamic acid serum and follow up with moisturizer and sunscreen.

To make things easier for you, we’ve created the perfect tranexamic acid skincare routine below.

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The Brightening Face Routine

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Truly’s NEW! 2-step routine for brighter, more even looking skin. Featuring our Tranexamic acid face serum and peptide-powered moisturizer, it provides a radiant finish that lasts hours.

FAQ: What Does Tranexamic Acid Do for Skin?

Does Tranexamic Acid Work on Dark Spots?

Yes! Tranexamic acid is particularly effective on stubborn dark spots caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or post-acne hyperpigmentation. Consistent use can fade discoloration and prevent new spots from forming.

Is Tranexamic Acid an Exfoliator?

No. Tranexamic acid is not an exfoliant. Despite its name, it is not an exfoliating acid like AHAs and BHAs. It works by inhibiting melanin production and reducing inflammation, rather than physically or chemically removing dead skin cells.

Can I Use Glutathione, Tranexamic Acid, and Niacinamide Together?

Yes! These ingredients can complement each other to brighten skin and reduce pigmentation. Tranexamic acid regulates melanin, niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier and calms inflammation, and glutathione provides antioxidant support.

You’ll find tranexamic acid and niacinamide together in Truly’s The Brightening Face Serum.

Can I Use Tranexamic Acid and Vitamin C Together?

Yes, tranexamic acid and vitamin C can be used together. Both target pigmentation and brighten skin, but it’s best to introduce them gradually to avoid irritation, especially if your skin is sensitive.

You’ll find tranexamic acid and vitamin C together in Truly’s The Brightening Face Serum.

Can I Use Tranexamic Acid With Retinol?

Yes, tranexamic acid can be used with retinol. Retinol helps speed up cell turnover, which can enhance pigment fading, while tranexamic acid reduces melanin production. Start slowly to ensure your skin tolerates the combination.

Can I Use Tranexamic Acid With Hyaluronic Acid?

Yes, tranexamic acid can be safely used with hyaluronic acid. While tranexamic acid targets pigmentation and helps fade dark spots, hyaluronic acid provides intense hydration and plumps the skin. Using them together can help your skin look brighter, smoother, and more radiant without causing irritation.

You’ll find tranexamic acid and hyaluronic acid together in Truly's The Face Serum Duo. 

What Does Tranexamic Acid Do for Skin?

Tranexamic acid helps reduce hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and post-inflammatory marks by regulating melanin production and calming inflammation. It also brightens the complexion and can help even out skin tone over time.

Can Tranexamic Acid Help With Sun Damage or Age Spots?

Yes! Tranexamic acid is effective at targeting pigmentation caused by sun exposure, including age spots and other forms of sun damage. It works by regulating melanin production in the skin, helping to fade dark spots and prevent new ones from forming. Paired with daily SPF, it can protect your skin from further damage while gradually improving overall tone and brightness.

How Often Should I Use Tranexamic Acid?

For most topical formulations, once or twice daily is recommended. Follow the instructions on your product, and always pair it with sunscreen during the day to protect against further pigmentation.

What are the Side Effects of Tranexamic Acid?

Topical tranexamic acid is generally gentle and well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects such as temporary redness, irritation, or a slight stinging or tingling when first applied. These effects usually subside as your skin adjusts. Severe reactions are rare, but if you notice persistent irritation or signs of an allergic reaction, it’s best to stop use and consult a dermatologist.

Using it alongside sunscreen and a gentle skincare routine can help minimize any irritation while maximizing its brightening and pigmentation-fading benefits.

Is Tranexamic Acid Suitable for All Skin Types?

Yes, tranexamic acid is generally safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin, because it is non-irritating compared to many other brightening ingredients. Patch testing is recommended if you have very reactive skin.

Is Tranexamic Acid Safe for Rosacea or Sensitive Skin Conditions?

Yes, tranexamic acid is generally well-tolerated and can be safe for people with rosacea or sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties help calm irritation and redness, making it gentler than many other brightening ingredients. However, it’s always a good idea to patch-test new products and introduce them gradually, especially if your skin is highly reactive.

How Long Does it Take for Tranexamic Acid to Work?

Visible results typically appear after 4–8 weeks of consistent use, though it may take longer for deeper pigmentation or post-inflammatory marks to fade completely.

Where Can I Buy Tranexamic Acid Over the Counter?

Tranexamic acid can be found in Truly’s The Brightening Face Serum and The Brightening Body Serum. Both are dermatologist-tested treatments that work on the deeper layers of skin to visibly reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation for radiant, more even looking skin.

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