Glycolic Acid + Tranexamic Acid

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic lysine derivative originally developed as an antifibrinolytic drug to control bleeding. In dermatology, it has emerged as a powerful depigmenting agent that works by inhibiting the plasminogen/plasmin pathway, which reduces melanocyte-stimulating signals triggered by UV exposure and inflammation. Unlike direct tyrosinase inhibitors, TXA interrupts the communication between keratinocytes and melanocytes, preventing the transfer of melanin into surrounding skin cells.

This mechanism is highly complementary to glycolic acid's approach to hyperpigmentation. Glycolic acid accelerates the shedding of melanin-loaded keratinocytes through exfoliation - essentially clearing out existing pigment faster. Tranexamic acid, meanwhile, prevents new pigment from being produced and transferred in the first place. Together, they address both sides of the hyperpigmentation equation: removal of existing discoloration and prevention of new pigment formation. Clinical studies on melasma patients have shown that topical tranexamic acid combined with chemical exfoliation produces superior results compared to either treatment alone.

Tranexamic acid is well-tolerated and does not cause the photosensitivity, irritation, or rebound hyperpigmentation associated with stronger depigmenting agents like hydroquinone. It is stable across a wide pH range and does not chemically interact with glycolic acid, making the two straightforward to combine in the same routine.