Tranexamic acid began as a medication used to reduce bleeding, and dermatologists noticed that patients taking it saw their melasma lighten. It is now widely used topically, typically between 2 and 5 percent, where it appears to interrupt the signaling between skin cells and pigment-producing melanocytes, especially the signaling triggered by ultraviolet light and inflammation.The evidence base is genuinely interesting. Trials of topical tranexamic acid, most commonly at 3 to 5 percent, report reductions in melasma severity scores over roughly 12 weeks, and comparisons with hydroquinone have been broadly favorable in some studies. Oral and injected forms tend to outperform topical ones, which is a reminder that a serum is the gentlest version of this ingredient, not the strongest. Results also relapse without sun protection.Brands pitch 4 percent as the answer to stubborn spots that niacinamide alone has not moved. That framing is fair as far as it goes, but melasma is a medical condition with a strong hormonal and UV component, and no cosmetic serum manages it on its own.It suits people with post-inflammatory marks, sun spots or a melasma pattern who are already committed to daily sunscreen. It is generally well tolerated, including by skin that finds acids and retinoids too much. If you are being treated for a pigment condition, coordinate with your dermatologist rather than layering products on top of a prescription.Tranexamic acid combines readily with niacinamide, which is the pairing you see most often, and with vitamin C, azelaic acid and hyaluronic acid. Give it eight to twelve weeks before judging, use it consistently rather than in bursts, and keep the same sunscreen habit through the whole period.Ours is paired with niacinamide in the Anua Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Dark Spot Serum.

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