What it does
Tranexamic acid works on pigmentation through a different route than tyrosinase inhibitors, which is part of why it has become a favourite for melasma and stubborn discolouration that has not responded to the usual options.
It is notably gentle — unlike hydroquinone or kojic acid, it rarely causes irritation, which makes it easy to add to an existing routine and easy to combine with niacinamide.
Melasma in particular is a long game and strongly UV-driven. No topical will beat inconsistent sun protection.
In a routine
Layers well with
- Niacinamide
- Vitamin C
- Sunscreen
