While tranexamic acid is a skincare ingredient that is well-known to dermatologists, many of us mere mortals have never heard of it. However, that’s soon likely to change: According to Beauty Pie’s Trends Report 2025, tranexamic acid is set to be the second biggest ingredient trend of this year. Based on Google searches and social media mentions, there was 107% increase in interest in the latter half of 2024, ahead of other actives such as niacinamide or azelaic acid.
Dermatologists will also tell you that the interest around tranexamic acid is entirely justified—especially because it is highly effective for preventing and treating blemishes as well as hyperpigmentation and melasma. “In dermatology, it has been found to have a potent depigmenting effect, as it interferes in the pathway that activates the excessive production of melanin, responsible for dark spots on the skin,” explains dermatologist Carlos Morales Raya, director of the clinic that bears his name.“Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of lysine that acts by inhibiting the activation of plasminogen, a key protein in the degradation of blood clots and inflammation.”
Tranexamic acid for hyperpigmentation and blemishes
Tranexamic acid was discovered in the 1960s, when it was used to control hemorrhages and heavy menstrual bleeding, but it didn’t start being considered for skincare until decades later when doctors observed that patients treated with tranexamic acid also showed an improvement in skin hyperpigmentation. Now it is known as one of the most effective active ingredients for treating blemishes related to inflammatory processes such as acne or hormonal issues such as melasma—which is notoriously difficult to treat. “It has the advantage of being very well tolerated, even on sensitive skin or by those who cannot use other more aggressive de-pigmenters such as hydroxy acids,” Morales Raya explains.
However, the expert is quick to note that it’s important not to make claims about tranexamic acid being the best. “There is no single best active for blemishes,” he says. “The ideal is a multifactorial approach: We combine tranexamic acid with other ingredients such as niacinamide, kojic acid, or vitamin C, depending on the patient’s needs. We also usually complement with in-office treatments, such as laser, peels, mesotherapy, microneedling, or oral treatment in certain cases.”
How to use tranexamic acid
Topical applications of tranexamic acid can be used for a variety of concerns, according to Morales Raya. Here are the most common:
- To treat melasma, the dark spots that may appear on the skin of the upper lip, cheeks, and forehead during pregnancy or due to other hormonal issues.
- To treat acne marks. “We use it in patients with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, such as spots that remain after acne or after medical procedures,” explains Morales Raya.
- For rosacea because it acts on the inflammatory component of the skin.
- As an alternative for people whose skin cannot tolerate other more aggressive active ingredients. “It has an excellent safety profile and does not sensitize the skin to the sun as much as other products,” notes the doctor.
- To treat dark circles under the eye caused by excess melanin or inflammation. “Studies suggest that it can lighten dark circles over time, reducing the depth of color and making the skin under the eyes look more even and luminous,” says the expert.
What products typically contain tranexamic acid?
Tranexamic acid is very versatile and can be found in different formulations, but it is important to consult a dermatologist to optimize its possibilities—especially if you want to combine it with other active ingredients. It is most commonly found in these types of cosmetics:
