TRANEXAMIC ACID(QUALITY)

Tranexamic acid is a powerful skincare ingredient that has gained popularity for its effectiveness in treating hyperpigmentation, melasma, and uneven skin tone. Originally used as an oral medication to reduce bleeding, it is now widely used topically in skincare products.

---

Benefits of Tranexamic Acid for Skin

✅ 1. Reduces Hyperpigmentation

• Helps fade dark spots, acne scars, and sunspots by inhibiting melanin production.

✅ 2. Treats Melasma

• One of the most effective non-hydroquinone ingredients for treating melasma, a hormonal form of hyperpigmentation.

✅ 3. Evens Skin Tone

• Promotes a more uniform complexion by reducing discoloration and blotchiness.

✅ 4. Minimizes Post-Inflammatory Marks

• Speeds up the fading of red or dark marks left by acne or skin irritation.

✅ 5. Anti-Inflammatory

• Helps calm the skin and reduce redness, making it suitable for sensitive or inflamed skin.

✅ 6. Safe for Most Skin Types

• Generally well-tolerated, including by sensitive and darker skin tones, with a lower risk of irritation compared to some other brightening agents like hydroquinone or retinoids.

---

Common Uses of Tranexamic Acid in Skincare

1. Serums

• Typically used in 2–5% concentration for targeted treatment of dark spots and melasma.

2. Creams & Lotions

• Used in brightening or pigmentation-reducing creams for daily use.

3. Spot Treatments

• Applied directly to affected areas to fade localized discoloration.

4. Overnight Treatments

• Combined with ingredients like niacinamide or kojic acid for enhanced brightening while you sleep.

5. Alternative to Harsh Treatments

• A safer alternative to hydroquinone or chemical peels for people with sensitive or reactive skin.

---

Tips for Using Tranexamic Acid

• Frequency: Use once daily or as directed, usually at night.

• Pairing: Can be safely combined with niacinamide, vitamin C, azelaic acid, and retinol for enhanced results.

• Sun Protection: Always follow with sunscreen during the day, as UV exposure can worsen pigmentation.

The usage range of tranexamic acid in topical skincare is typically:

✅ Recommended Concentration:

• Topical products: 2% to 5% tranexamic acid

  • 2% – gentle, suitable for daily use and sensitive skin

  • 3–5% – stronger concentration for more stubborn pigmentation issues like melasma

⚠️ Formulation Notes:

• Higher concentrations are not necessarily more effective and may increase the risk of irritation, especially if layered with other actives (like acids or retinoids).

• Often combined with niacinamide, vitamin C, or kojic acid for synergistic skin-brightening effects.

---

How to Use:

• Frequency: 1–2 times daily, typically applied after cleansing and before moisturizer or sunscreen.

• Duration: Visible results usually appear after 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use.

Here’s a safe and effective DIY tranexamic acid serum recipe designed to help with dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone, using a concentration of around 2%, which is suitable for most skin types.

---

DIY Tranexamic Acid Brightening Serum (2%)

✨ Benefits:

• Fades hyperpigmentation

• Evens skin tone

• Calms inflammation

---

Ingredients (for 30 ml / 1 oz batch):

• Tranexamic acid powder – 0.6 grams (2% of total formula)

• Distilled water – 15 ml

• Niacinamide (optional) – 1 gram (around 3%)

• Glycerin – 3 ml (humectant)

• Preservative (e.g., Optiphen, Germall Plus) – according to manufacturer instructions

• Aloe vera juice or hydrosol – 10.4 ml

• pH adjuster (like a drop of lactic acid or baking soda solution) – as needed to reach pH 5–6

---

Instructions:

1. Dissolve Tranexamic Acid:

   • In a sanitized glass beaker, mix tranexamic acid powder with distilled water. Stir well (it may take time to fully dissolve).

   • Gently warm the solution (not above 40°C) to help dissolve if needed.

2. Add Other Ingredients:

   • Mix in glycerin, niacinamide (if using), and aloe vera juice or hydrosol.

   • Stir thoroughly until uniform.

3. Preservation:

   • Add the preservative according to its usage rate to ensure shelf stability.

4. pH Check & Adjustment:

   • Use a pH strip or meter to ensure the final product is between pH 5.0 and 6.0.

   • Adjust as needed using a dilute lactic acid solution (to lower pH) or baking soda solution (to raise pH).

5. Bottle It:

   • Pour the serum into a clean, dark glass dropper bottle or airless pump.

---

How to Use:

• Apply a few drops to clean skin at night, before moisturizer.

• Use sunscreen daily to prevent further pigmentation.

• Store in a cool, dry place (refrigeration optional but prolongs shelf life).

---

⚠️ Important Notes:

• Always do a patch test before applying to your face.

• Use a preservative for safety; without it, the serum may spoil in a few days.

• Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding without medical guidance.