Tranexamic Acid: The Brightening Breakthrough for Stubborn Pigmentation
- Paty Cholewczynski
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns I see in the studio, whether it shows up as freckles, sun damage, post-inflammatory marks, or stubborn melasma. These shadows on the skin can feel frustratingly hard to treat, often returning even after months of effort with brightening creams.
I read yesterday that at the AAD 2025 Dermatology Meeting, one ingredient stole the spotlight for its ability to truly transform pigmentation protocols: Tranexamic Acid (TXA). Once used in medicine for very different purposes, this powerhouse has now been clinically recognized as a pigment-correcting active that works on multiple levels of the skin.
How Tranexamic Acid Works on Pigmentation
Where most lightening products only target surface discoloration, TXA works deeper, calming the messaging system between skin cells that drives excess pigment.
Suppresses melanin synthesis – reduces overproduction of pigment.
Decreases pigment transfer – limits how much melanin moves into surrounding skin cells.
Soothes inflammation – particularly helpful for melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where inflammation plays a big role.
This makes TXA uniquely effective at both fading existing spots and reducing the risk of new ones forming.
The Power of a Curated Approach
At Shoreline Glow, I don’t believe in overwhelming clients with endless product ranges. Instead, I carefully curate from DP Dermaceuticals to complement my core O’Cosmedics line, choosing only the formulas that truly elevate results.
For pigmentation concerns, I integrate two key TXA-based products from DP Dermaceuticals:
Brite Lite Serum (homecare)
2% Tranexamic Acid
Kojic Dipalmitate
Vitamin C
Liquorice Root + Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract
HylaFuse™ Hyaluronic Acid
→ A potent take-home brightener that suppresses melanin, calms inflammation, and deeply hydrates for ongoing clarity.
MG-BL Meso-Glide (in-studio infusion - Add-On)
2% Tranexamic Acid
2% Safflower Seed Oil Pigment Esters (CSPOFE)
Kojic Dipalmitate
Vitamin C
Liquorice Root
HylaFuse™ Hyaluronic Acid
→ Used exclusively during microneedling, this serum is delivered through freshly created micro-channels so TXA and co-actives can reach the deeper layers where pigmentation begins.
Why Microneedling Makes TXA Even More Effective
Microneedling is already a collagen-induction powerhouse, but it also serves as an advanced delivery system for actives like TXA:
Micro-channels = deeper absorption. TXA and its brightening partners reach the basal layer of skin where melanin is made.
Dual benefit. While pigment is being suppressed, your skin is also rebuilding collagen and elastin for smoother, firmer texture.
Synergy with peels. In the GloUp Treatment, microneedling is combined with a chemical peel, amplifying resurfacing on the surface while suppressing pigment at the source.
A Complete Brightening Protocol
For clients with pigmentation concerns, here’s how I design a plan that works with your skin’s natural processes:
In-Studio Treatment
GloUp Microneedling (3-6 series) with MG-BL Meso-Glide: Collagen induction + peel + targeted TXA infusion.
LED Light Therapy: Calms inflammation, speeds recovery, and reduces risk of post-inflammatory pigment.
Exclusive Follow-Up Care
Post Express Facial (14–17 days later): Unique to Shoreline Glow, this facial clears micro-flaking, strengthens barrier health, and keeps your glow consistent while skin is actively remodeling.
At-Home Recommended Support
Brite Lite Serum: Daily application extends and protects results by continuing to suppress pigment pathways.
O’Cosmedics essentials: Vitamin C for collagen and pigment support, professional-strength SPF to block UV-triggered pigment, and restorative hydration to keep skin healthy and strong.
Why This Matters for You
Tranexamic Acid represents a true shift in how we approach stubborn pigmentation. Instead of chasing dark spots after they appear, TXA calms the cycle of pigment production at its root—helping skin stay more even, clear, and luminous over time.
When paired with advanced in-studio treatments and supported by daily homecare, it delivers a layered, long-term solution that goes beyond temporary brightening creams.
Managing melanin is not a one-time fix but a lifelong endeavor.
Our skin is constantly exposed to triggers, sunlight, hormones, inflammation, that can reactivate pigment pathways at any stage of life. This is why consistency is key. With the right professional treatments layered seasonally, and daily homecare that supports and protects your skin, you can stay ahead of these triggers and keep pigmentation under control. Think of it as long-term skin stewardship rather than a quick correction, the more you nurture and protect your skin, the more radiant and even-toned it remains over the years.
✨ Ready to take control of pigmentation?
Book your consultation today and let’s design a customized brightening protocol that blends the very best of DP Dermaceuticals and O’Cosmedics to suit your skin’s needs.
Comments