Tranexamic Acid: Secret Ingredient Against Stubborn Melasma

If you’ve been battling melasma for years, you’ve likely tried the usual suspects, like sunscreens, brightening creams, and chemical peels. But there’s a lesser-known player in the skincare world that’s been quietly earning praise from dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike: tranexamic acid. While it may not be the most recognisable name on ingredient lists, this compound is quickly becoming a go-to solution for stubborn pigmentation.

What makes tranexamic acid so special is its unique approach to melasma. Unlike other treatments that only target the skin’s surface, tranexamic acid works on a deeper level by addressing the root causes of pigmentation. Originally used to treat excessive bleeding during surgery or menstruation, researchers have discovered that this anti-fibrinolytic agent also helps regulate melanin production¹ in the skin. That means it doesn’t just fade dark spots but helps prevent them from forming in the first place.

What exactly is melasma?

Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that causes irregular, dark patches² on the face, often on the upper lip, nose, forehead, and cheeks. It’s more common in women and frequently triggered by hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics. Although not medically harmful, melasma can be emotionally distressing, especially when treatments fail to produce lasting results. This is where tranexamic acid comes in as a game-changer.

How does tranexamic acid work?

Tranexamic acid works by inhibiting a pathway in the skin that leads to melanin overproduction. Specifically, it blocks the interaction between keratinocytes (skin cells) and melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), reducing the stimulation of melanin³. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be especially helpful since inflammation is often a contributing factor to pigmentation issues.

You can find tranexamic acid in various forms, such as topical serums and creams, oral medication, and even as an injectable. Each delivery method has its pros and cons, depending on how severe the pigmentation is and what your skin can tolerate. A skin dermatologist in Singapore can assess your skin’s needs and recommend the most effective route. Some clinics even combine tranexamic acid treatments with lasers or microneedling for enhanced results.

Is tranexamic acid safe for all skin types?

One of the best things about tranexamic acid is that it’s generally well tolerated across a wide range of skin types, including sensitive skin and skin of colour. Unlike hydroquinone, which can cause irritation or rebound hyperpigmentation when used long term, tranexamic acid tends to be gentler with fewer side effects⁴. That makes it an attractive alternative for people who’ve struggled with harsher depigmenting agents.

That said, it’s always important to speak to a professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you have underlying skin conditions like eczema or rosacea. Many individuals seeking eczema treatment in Singapore may find that their skin barrier is already compromised, and layering on strong actives without guidance could lead to more flare-ups. A personalised treatment plan ensures you get the benefits of tranexamic acid without the risk of irritation.

Using tranexamic acid in your skincare routine

Adding tranexamic acid to your routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Look for serums that contain 2–5% tranexamic acid, as this concentration is considered effective yet gentle. These products can be used once or twice daily, preferably alongside other brightening agents like niacinamide or vitamin C. Just make sure you’re also using a high-SPF sunscreen every day; sun exposure can undo any progress you make with pigmentation.

If you’re already seeing a dermatologist for pigmentation or acne scarring, ask if they offer oral tranexamic acid. Oral supplementation, under medical supervision, has shown promising results for moderate to severe melasma cases. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, patients taking oral tranexamic acid saw noticeable improvement in pigmentation after just eight weeks of treatment⁵.

Of course, tranexamic acid isn’t a magic fix; consistency is key. Most people see gradual improvement over 8–12 weeks, and maintenance treatments may be required. Combining this treatment with other pigmentation control methods can also help extend your results. That’s why it’s helpful to get the lowdown on pigmentation from a trusted clinic or skincare expert.

Conclusion

Tranexamic acid might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of skincare solutions, but for those dealing with melasma, it could be the breakthrough they’ve been waiting for. This powerful yet gentle ingredient is paving the way for more sustainable and lasting results in pigmentation control. Whether used alone or as part of a broader regimen, tranexamic acid offers new hope for smoother, clearer skin.

If you’re ready to explore safe and effective treatments for melasma and other skin concerns, reach out to Angeline Yong Dermatology. Offering cosmetic, surgical, and medical dermatological services in Singapore, the clinic is known for our personalised approach and evidence-based care.

References

Chen, T., Xue, J., & Wang, Q. (2024). Tranexamic Acid for the Treatment of Hyperpigmentation and Telangiectatic Disorders Other Than Melasma: An Update. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 17, 2151–2163. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S479411

Basit H, et al. (2023). Melasma.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459271/

Gaćina, K., & Krstanović Ćosić, A. (2023). THE USE OF TRANEXAMIC ACID IN DERMATOLOGY. Acta clinica Croatica, 62(2), 368–372. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10969640/

Ebrahimi, B., & Naeini, F. F. (2014). Topical tranexamic acid as a promising treatment for melasma. Journal of research in medical sciences : the official journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 19(8), 753–757.

Godse, K., Sarkar, R., Mysore, V., Shenoy, M. M., Chatterjee, M., Damisetty, R., Shah, S., Vedamurthy, M., Aurangabadkar, S., Srinivas, C., Ganjoo, A., Das, S., & Patil, A. (2023). Oral Tranexamic Acid for the Treatment of Melasma: Evidence and Experience-Based Consensus Statement from Indian Experts. Indian journal of dermatology, 68(2), 178–185. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijd.ijd_266_22

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Tranexamic Acid: Secret Ingredient Against Stubborn Melasma