Tranexamic acid: a great ally in the treatment of blemishes and melasma

Tranexamic acid is a drug that allows bleeding control during active bleeding. However, it has also been used by dermatologists to treat and soften blemishes. For this there are injectable versions, tablets and creams with manipulated formulas.

As the dermatologist, Gabriella Albuquerque, explains, each type of acid has its particularities, both in terms of use and results. “Oral use also has anti-inflammatory action. The topical and injectable version proves to be more effective and has already been used by many dermatologists, but the treatment varies from person to person. Usually the indication is six to eight applications, which are weekly”, explains the professional.

Understand more about the features of tranexamic acid and how it can act in skin treatments.

The functions of tranexamic acid

Combating dark circles and melasmas is among the main functions. According to the dermatologist, in general, the results are very positive and the stains soften a lot. But for that, it is necessary to have a medical indication.

Tranexamic acid for melasma

Dermatologist Gabriella Albuquerque explains that exposure to ultraviolet light activates the plasminogen factor, which promotes an increase in plasmin, a protein that increases melanogenesis. “That is, if it is in high concentration, plasmin increases the chance of staining ourselves and, consequently, promoting melasma”, she says. According to her, tranexamic acid prevents this increase in plasmin from occurring. “It acts on the clotting cascade that occurs during the clotting process when we are bleeding,” she says.

Tranexamic acid for dark circles

As for dark circles, which can be of various types and for different causes, there is a need for a different treatment for each one. “In mixed dark circles, which are more common, acid is indicated and can help a lot, since one of its functions is to prevent pigmentation induced by UV rays. But, like any other treatment aimed at dark circles, it does not guarantee a cure because, in most cases, they need continuous treatment”, he says.

Tranexamic acid also has the purpose of controlling bleeding, a use already highly regarded by medicine.

Where to find

Tranexamic acid pills are over-the-counter and can be found in pharmacies or even online. On the other hand, topical medications in the form of whitening creams and gels should be made in compounding pharmacies. The injectable is only sold with a doctor’s prescription. Here’s an average price:

Pills: A box with 12 units costs, on average, R$ 20.00.

Cream: A pot of 30 grams costs, on average, R$ 35.00.

Injection: A package with five ampoules of 5 ml each costs, on average, R$ 40.00.

In addition to the correct use of the drug, it is necessary to maintain the result. This depends a lot on the patient and their habits, such as the indispensable use of sunscreen daily.

Side effects and contraindications

The doctor explains that, in general, there are usually no side effects. She says it’s quite uncommon to have some sort of reaction, but it could be that the patient has nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain and diarrhea.

And great care must be taken with oral and injectable use, which should not be used in people with intravascular coagulation, due to the risk of thrombosis, and in patients who are predisposed to thrombosis. The risk becomes even greater for women who use the contraceptive pill. “The patient should be excluded from risk criteria for thrombosis before starting treatment,” she says.

It is also important to remember that only a doctor can evaluate each case and indicate the best treatment for the patient.