While this molecule is linked to an increased risk of thrombosis (blood clots) when taken orally, topical application of tranexamic acid skincare products poses no danger . It is therefore essential to understand the difference between taking medication and using serums or creams: in cosmetics, it is one of the most effective active ingredients for treating melasma (pregnancy mask) and hyperpigmentation. Through this guide, Nooance-Paris clarifies the real dangers of tranexamic acid (TXA) and its proven effects on skin lightening.
Why is tranexamic acid safe for topical use?
Exacyl: the risk of oral prescription
Tranexamic acid prescribed orally (Exacyl) is a drug that helps with coagulation, often recommended as part of an anti-hemorrhagic treatment (heavy menstrual bleeding, hemorrhage in dental surgery...).
In this context, TXA may slightly increase the risk of blood clots , especially in people with a history of thrombosis or those using hormonal contraception. Therefore, its systemic use should always be supervised by a healthcare professional.
Key difference: systemic absorption vs. local action
This active ingredient is found in cosmetics under the name “Tranexamic Acid”. In the form of topical treatments (creams, serums, or skincare products), it does not reach the bloodstream because it is applied to the surface of the skin . This is why the risks associated with its coagulating effect are eliminated when tranexamic acid is used as a cosmetic compound.
Cosmetic safety: tranexamic acid is a reliable active ingredient
Clinical data confirm the efficacy and good tolerability of topical applications of tranexamic acid with concentrations between 3 and 5%.
When used topically in a 3-5% formulation , tranexamic acid does not pose any risk of thrombosis through the skin. This concentration level proves particularly effective at evening skin tone without significant side effects.
How does tranexamic acid work to visibly fade pigment spots?
The mechanism of action of TXA explains its effectiveness on brown spots: it acts by inhibiting the activity of plasmin , a skin enzyme produced in excess during exposure to the sun (UV rays) or hormonal changes (which cause melasma).
Plasmin sends a message to pigment cells, triggering the production of melanin, and thus skin pigmentation. By blocking this signal, tranexamic acid prevents hyperpigmentation and also reduces inflammation and associated redness.
How to incorporate it into your skincare routine for effective brightening action?
Although interesting on its own, this anti-spot active ingredient can be combined with other powerful ingredients to significantly affect skin radiance, signs of aging, and hyperpigmentation.
TXA & Niacinamide: a synergy of brightening active ingredients to reduce dark spots
The Intensive Anti-Dark Spot Treatment combines two expert actions in a single step: a vitamin C booster and a serum enriched with tranexamic acid and niacinamide. Together, these active ingredients work synergistically to diminish dark spots, redness, and acne marks, while revealing a more even, radiant, and visibly rejuvenated complexion. Its light emulsion texture is suitable for all skin types and can be used as both a serum and a day cream.
Azelaic and tranexamic acids to reduce redness
The Clarifying Anti-Redness Treatment has been specially designed to soothe skin prone to redness, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Its concentrated formula combines 3% tranexamic acid with 12% azelaic acid, enriched with a complex of brightening, soothing, and nourishing active ingredients. Together, they work synergistically to calm inflammation, fade dark spots, even out skin tone, regulate sebum production, and reduce imperfections.
An ideal anti-inflammatory ingredient to complement the LED face mask
After using a light therapy mask , tranexamic acid is a valuable ally to maximize the rejuvenating effects of the LED mask and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
The Nooance-Paris Elite X600 LED face mask is the only one to offer 600 medical-grade LEDs evenly distributed to cover the entire face and provide an ideal solution to your skin problems: wrinkles, redness, dullness, brown spots, lack of firmness and imperfections.
FAQ: Tranexamic Acid: Potential Side Effects
Is tranexamic acid serum dangerous when used with the pill?
The use of tranexamic acid serum is safe when used with hormonal contraception . Its skin penetration is minimal, so it does not affect blood clotting or the circulatory system. Only the oral form of tranexamic acid, used as a medication, requires precautions for women taking birth control pills.
Can tranexamic acid be used in the summer?
This active ingredient is not photosensitizing , so it can be used as a day cream, even in sunny weather. However, a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen is still essential to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays and to prevent the appearance of new dark spots.
How long does it take to see real results on brown spots?
Regular application of tranexamic acid, in good quality formulations composed of powerful active ingredients (vitamin C, retinol) can offer rapid results, in just a few weeks , on the reduction of hyperpigmentation: brown spots, lentigo, melasma or even age spots.
Is tranexamic acid dangerous for pregnant women (melasma)?
When applied topically, tranexamic acid is safe during pregnancy because its skin absorption is minimal and no studies have shown any side effects. However, oral administration of TXA is contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to its effect on blood clotting.
Does TXA present a risk of irritation?
Unlike exfoliating acids such as AHAs or BHAs, this active ingredient is very well tolerated by sensitive or redness-prone skin . Allergic reactions are very rare and often linked to poor product formulation.
Nooance-Paris experts' opinion: should we be worried about the effects of tranexamic acid on the skin?
Despite its somewhat intimidating name, tranexamic acid is anything but an aggressive active ingredient. On the contrary, it stands out today as one of the safest and most effective ingredients for treating melasma, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Thanks to its targeted action on the mechanisms of hyperpigmentation, it helps the skin regain radiance and evenness without weakening it. At Nooance, we incorporate it into our formulas to offer visible and risk-free results: luminous and soothed skin, with ease.
