Limited Time: FREE Assessment on All Treatment Categories - No Promo Code Needed!
Explore the benefits of Tranexamic Acid in topical skincare treatments
Tranexamic Acid (TXA) emerges as a groundbreaking solution for melasma, challenging the traditional treatments with its dual action on melanin synthesis and vascular factors. This versatile compound, while initially used for its antifibrinolytic properties, has shown promising results in the realm of dermatology, particularly in addressing the complex pathophysiology of melasma.
TXA's mechanism extends beyond mere pigment reduction. It inhibits plasminogen activators, reducing melanocyte tyrosinase activity and melanin production. Furthermore, TXA lessens UV-induced pigmentation and disrupts the interaction between keratinocytes and melanocytes, offering a multifaceted approach to melasma treatment.
Versatile Application: Effective in various formulations, TXA can be administered orally, topically, or intradermally, catering to different patient needs and treatment plans.
Safety Profile: With a low incidence of side effects, particularly in topical and oral forms, TXA presents a safer alternative for long-term use compared to traditional treatments like hydroquinone.
Efficacy: Studies have demonstrated TXA's ability to significantly reduce melasma's visibility, improving skin complexion with a notable decrease in Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) scores.
Preventive Action: TXA not only treats existing melasma but also offers preventive benefits against future hyperpigmentation episodes, especially when used in conjunction with sun protection measures.
For maximum efficacy, a consistent application as prescribed by a dermatologist is crucial. TXA's impact is gradual, highlighting the importance of patience and adherence to the treatment regimen for lasting results.
Despite its over-the-counter availability in some forms, consulting with a dermatologist is essential to determine the most effective concentration and formulation for individual cases, ensuring an optimized treatment plan tailored to specific skin types and melasma conditions.
Tranexamic Acid stands at the forefront of innovative melasma treatments, offering hope and enhanced quality of life for individuals battling this persistent condition. With ongoing research and clinical trials, TXA's role in dermatology continues to evolve, promising further insights and refined applications in the fight against melasma.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For personalized recommendations, consult a healthcare professional.
IOSR Journal Of Pharmacy And Biological Sciences (IOSR-JPBS)
e-ISSN:2278-3008, p-ISSN:2319-7676. Volume 16, Issue 1 Ser. V (Jan. – Feb. 2021), PP 51-56
González-Molina V, Martí-Pineda A, González N. Topical Treatments for Melasma and Their Mechanism of Action. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022 May;15(5):19-28. PMID: 35642229; PMCID: PMC9122278.
Steiner, Denise & Feola, C. & Bialeski, N. & Silva, F.A. & Antiori, A.C.P. & Addor, Flavia & Folino, B.B.. (2009). Study evaluating the efficacy of topical and injected tranexamic acid in treatment of melasma. Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology. 1. 174-177.
Sheu SL. Treatment of melasma using tranexamic acid: what's known and what's next. Cutis. 2018 Feb;101(2):E7-E8. PMID: 29554171.
Wang JV, Jhawar N, Saedi N. Tranexamic Acid for Melasma: Evaluating the Various Formulations. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2019 Aug;12(8):E73-E74. Epub 2019 Aug 1. PMID: 31531176; PMCID: PMC6715124.
Zhang L, Tan WQ, Fang QQ, Zhao WY, Zhao QM, Gao J, Wang XW. Tranexamic Acid for Adults with Melasma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Nov 6;2018:1683414. doi: 10.1155/2018/1683414. PMID: 30533427; PMCID: PMC6247725.
Jong Yoon Chung, Jong Hee Lee & Joo Heung Lee (2016) Topical tranexamic acid as an adjuvant treatment in melasma: Side-by-side comparison clinical study, Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 27:4, 373-377
Ebrahimi B, Naeini FF. Topical tranexamic acid as a promising treatment for melasma. J Res Med Sci. 2014 Aug;19(8):753-7. PMID: 25422661; PMCID: PMC4235096.
Pinyapat Kanechorn Na Ayuthaya, Nucha Niumphradit, Aranya Manosroi & Artit Nakakes (2012) Topical 5% tranexamic acid for the treatment of melasma in Asians: A double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial, Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 14:3, 150-154
Atefi N, Dalvand B, Ghassemi M, Mehran G, Heydarian A. Therapeutic Effects of Topical Tranexamic Acid in Comparison with Hydroquinone in Treatment of Women with Melasma. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2017 Sep;7(3):417-424. doi: 10.1007/s13555-017-0195-0. Epub 2017 Jul 26. PMID: 28748406; PMCID: PMC5574746.
Rai, Tulika. (2017). Tulika Rai. Role of Tranexamic Acid in Management of Melasma. Cosmetol J 2017, 1(1): 000102.. Journal of Cosmetology.
Colferai MMT, Miquelin GM, Steiner D. Evaluation of oral tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2019 Oct;18(5):1495-1501. doi: 10.1111/jocd.12830. Epub 2018 Dec 9. PMID: 30536592.
Feng, X., Su, H. and Xie, J. (2021), Efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid in the treatment of adult melasma: An updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Clin Pharm Ther, 46: 1263-1273.
Colferai MMT, Miquelin GM, Steiner D. Evaluation of oral tranexamic acid in the treatment of melasma. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018; 18: 1495–1501
Chang YF, Lee TL, Oyerinde O, Desai SR, Aljabban A, Bay CP, Bain PA, Chung HJ. Efficacy and safety of topical agents in the treatment of melasma: What's evidence? A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023 Apr;22(4):1168-1176. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15566. Epub 2022 Dec 25. PMID: 36566490.
S. J. Kim, J.‐Y. Park, T. Shibata, R. Fujiwara, H. Y. Kang, Efficacy and possible mechanisms of topical tranexamic acid in melasma, Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, Volume 41, Issue 5, 1 July 2016,
Tranexamic Acid for Adults with Melasma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Volume 2018 | Article ID 1683414 | https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/1683414
A Randomized Trial of Oral Tranexamic Acid With Fluocinolone-Based Triple Cream Versus Fluocinolone Based Triple Cream Alone for the Treatment of Melasma
March 2022Journal of Drugs in Dermatology 21(3):321-322 DOI:10.36849/JDD.6099
