# Tranexamic acid

Source: https://theconstantbeauty.com/ingredients/tranexamic-acid/
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Publisher: The Constant (theconstantbeauty.com). Cite as "The Constant".
Generated: 2026-09-16T18:18Z

- **INCI name:** Tranexamic Acid
- **Common name:** Tranexamic acid
- **Typical use range:** 2–5%
- **Evidence tier:** literature-backed
- **Functions:** tone-support

## What it does

Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine. It has a long history in medicine as an oral and injectable agent, but in skincare it is used topically, at low percentages, for an entirely cosmetic purpose: a more even-looking tone.

The proposed mechanism is indirect. UV exposure prompts surface skin cells to release signals, including plasmin-related activity, that stimulate pigment production in melanocytes. Tranexamic acid interferes with that signalling pathway, so the message to make more pigment is quieter. This is why it is usually paired with daily sunscreen and with ingredients that act on later steps of the same process, such as niacinamide.

Topical studies generally use 2–5% over 8–12 weeks. It is non-acidic, non-exfoliating and generally well tolerated, including on sensitive skin. Results build slowly, and the ingredient works best as part of a consistent routine rather than a short course.

## Notes

Tranexamic acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine. It has a long history in medicine as an oral and injectable agent, but in skincare it is used topically, at low percentages, for an entirely cosmetic purpose: a more even-looking tone.

The proposed mechanism is indirect. UV exposure prompts surface skin cells to release signals, including plasmin-related activity, that stimulate pigment production in melanocytes. Tranexamic acid interferes with that signalling pathway, so the message to make more pigment is quieter. This is why it is usually paired with daily sunscreen and with ingredients that act on later steps of the same process, such as niacinamide.

Topical studies generally use 2–5% over 8–12 weeks. It is non-acidic, non-exfoliating and generally well tolerated, including on sensitive skin. Results build slowly, and the ingredient works best as part of a consistent routine rather than a short course.

## Used in

- [Multi-Active Complex Face Serum](https://theconstantbeauty.com/product/multi-active-complex-serum/)

## References

1. CosIng, Tranexamic Acid (EU cosmetic ingredient database) <https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/>
2. PubChem, Tranexamic acid (CID 5526) <https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/5526>
3. Taraz M, Niknam S, Ehsani AH. Tranexamic acid in treatment of melasma: a comprehensive review of clinical studies. Dermatol Ther. 2017;30(3).