Ingredient Lab
Why ceramide face serums deserve a spot in your routine
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Let’s start with one thing: being in the know doesn’t mean one has to hit checkout on everything new in the skincare aisle. Sometimes, the most effective ingredients are the ones that sit in your dermat’s vocabulary—we’re looking at tranexamic acid. It’s one of those names that sounds clinical, intimidating and not something you’d expect to see on a beauty shelf. But behind the science-y label is a gentle ingredient that’s changing how we treat uneven skin tone, dark spots and dullness.
If you’ve ever felt like no matter how many brightening serums you try, your skin just won’t even out, tranexamic acid might be the missing piece in your lineup.
Originally developed for medical use, the ingredient has made its way into skincare because of what it does best—calm inflammation and reduce excess pigment. A derivative of an amino acid called lysine, it helps slow down the signals that tell your skin to produce extra pigment when it’s stressed, inflamed or healing from a breakout. Besides, when melanin production gets overactive and leads to dark spots or uneven patches, tranexamic acid helps tone that down, gently and gradually. The best part is that it’s generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, proving to be a great option for people who’ve struggled with irritation from stronger brightening agents.
You’ll find the ingredient in serums, toners and moisturisers, depending on what your routine already looks like. Most people prefer starting with a serum that includes a low concentration of the ingredient. This can be layered before moisturiser and sunscreen during the day, or after cleansing at night.
It pairs well with hydrating and barrier-strengthening ingredients; and plays nicely with most of the actives you may already be using. But, the key is consistency. Tranexamic acid works best when used regularly, even if just a few times a week. And like any brightening ingredient, it performs best when paired with daily sunscreen, because protecting your skin from UV damage is half the battle when it comes to pigmentation.
Start with a low concentration or use it a few times a week before working up to daily use. This helps your skin adjust and ensures long-term tolerance.
Tranexamic acid works best when you protect your skin from UV exposure. Consistent sunscreen use prevents new pigmentation from forming while it fades the old.
Hydrating and barrier-supporting products (like ceramides or hyaluronic acid) help tranexamic acid perform better and reduce the risk of dryness or sensitivity.
Avoid combining it with strong exfoliating acids or retinoids at the same time. Overloading your skin with actives can cause irritation and undo its calming benefits.
Tranexamic acid takes time. Visible change usually appears after several weeks of regular use. Consistency is what brings lasting brightness and clarity.
Even though it’s gentle, your skin still needs moisture to maintain its barrier. A hydrated base helps all brightening ingredients work more effectively.
Originally developed for medical use, the ingredient has made its way into skincare because of what it does best—calm inflammation and reduce excess pigment. A derivative of an amino acid called lysine, it helps slow down the signals that tell your skin to produce extra pigment when it’s stressed, inflamed or healing from a breakout. Besides, when melanin production gets overactive and leads to dark spots or uneven patches, tranexamic acid helps tone that down, gently and gradually. The best part is that it’s generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, proving to be a great option for people who’ve struggled with irritation from stronger brightening agents.
You’ll find the ingredient in serums, toners and moisturisers, depending on what your routine already looks like. Most people prefer starting with a serum that includes a low concentration of the ingredient. This can be layered before moisturiser and sunscreen during the day, or after cleansing at night.
It pairs well with hydrating and barrier-strengthening ingredients; and plays nicely with most of the actives you may already be using. But, the key is consistency. Tranexamic acid works best when used regularly, even if just a few times a week. And like any brightening ingredient, it performs best when paired with daily sunscreen, because protecting your skin from UV damage is half the battle when it comes to pigmentation.
Originally developed for medical use, the ingredient has made its way into skincare because of what it does best—calm inflammation and reduce excess pigment. A derivative of an amino acid called lysine, it helps slow down the signals that tell your skin to produce extra pigment when it’s stressed, inflamed or healing from a breakout. Besides, when melanin production gets overactive and leads to dark spots or uneven patches, tranexamic acid helps tone that down, gently and gradually. The best part is that it’s generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin, proving to be a great option for people who’ve struggled with irritation from stronger brightening agents.
You’ll find the ingredient in serums, toners and moisturisers, depending on what your routine already looks like. Most people prefer starting with a serum that includes a low concentration of the ingredient. This can be layered before moisturiser and sunscreen during the day, or after cleansing at night.
It pairs well with hydrating and barrier-strengthening ingredients; and plays nicely with most of the actives you may already be using. But, the key is consistency. Tranexamic acid works best when used regularly, even if just a few times a week. And like any brightening ingredient, it performs best when paired with daily sunscreen, because protecting your skin from UV damage is half the battle when it comes to pigmentation.
