Tranexamic acid is more targeted toward reducing hyperpigmentation, while Vitamin C is better suited for general skin health and reducing all visible signs of ageing. Most people will benefit from using both, because each one targets different aspects of skin care.
When it comes to brightening the skin and addressing pigmentation concerns, both Vitamin C and tranexamic acid offer significant benefits. While Vitamin C provides multi-tasking benefits and can help with hyperpigmentation, tranexamic acid is a more specific ingredient for targeting dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Salicylic acid
It is an exfoliating agent that removes dark spots and acne-causing bacteria along with dead skin cells that can lead to pigmentation.
How long should you take oral tranexamic acid for melasma to see gains? Oral tranexamic acid treatment benefits maximize after taking it for eight to twelve weeks. During this time, it limits a cellular process involved in producing melanin, the pigment that makes your skin dark and causes freckles.
There is some evidence to suggest that combining tranexamic acid (TXA) with vitamin C may have potential synergistic effects in addressing certain skin concerns. Both ingredients are known for their skin-brightening properties and can target hyperpigmentation through different mechanisms.
Tranexamic Acid Serum can be used with all products in our range however we'd recommend not to use alongside a moisturizer / oil as it is unlikely to layer well.
Kojic Acid is derived from fungi and works by inhibiting melanin production, helping to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals and promotes collagen production, leading to a firmer, more youthful appearance.
Unlike niacinamide, Vitamin C can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin, and may not pair well with certain ingredients like retinol due to its low pH. Both niacinamide and ascorbic acid are effective for reducing hyperpigmentation, but they work best when used together.
NIACINAMIDE. Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, effectively reduces the appearance of dark marks and hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production and promoting a more even skin tone. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe and brighten the skin, leading to a clearer, more radiant complexion.
Vitamins can be used to lighten your skin and lighten dark spots. Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin.
Kojic acid
Kojic acid has skin-lightening properties that can help reduce the appearance of dark patches associated with melasma. It inhibits the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color10.
Vitamin C has powerful antioxidant properties, neutralising free radicals to help protect the skin from damage caused by the sun's rays and other external aggressors. It's also gained a reputation for its ability to lighten areas of hyperpigmentation, helping visibly fade dark spots to achieve a more even skin tone.
It can take up to 24 hours for the medicine to take full effect.
Kojic acid effectively fights any hyperpigmentation, including sun damage, melasma, common PIH, acne marks, marks left behind by injuries, even dark under-eye circles.
Both ingredients can fade hyperpigmentation and increase collagen production. Vitamin C (depending on the percentage) can be more harsh for sensitive skin types. Or, you might want to use niacinamide if you have acne-prone skin, and leverage Vitamin C for fading post-acne marks and dark spots.
Q: Which ingredient works the fastest for dark spots? A: Hydroquinone (available by prescription) is one of the most potent options, but retinol, vitamin C, and glycolic acid also deliver visible results with consistent use.
One isn't better than the other for fading dark spots. Tranexamic acid is more targeted toward reducing hyperpigmentation, while Vitamin C is better suited for general skin health and reducing all visible signs of ageing. Most people will benefit from using both, because each one targets different aspects of skin care.
The most common potential side effects are listed below. Though reported instances are rare, tranexamic acid can cause allergic reactions, such as itching, swelling, hives, or a rash.
It can take 8-12 weeks of regular use of tranexamic acid skin care products before you see a noticeable difference in skin tone and brightness.
One compatible ingredient that can be used with Kojic acid is Vitamin C. When combined, this blend of these active ingredients can boost the skin's brightening and antioxidant effects. Vitamin C helps to further inhibit melanin production and promote collagen.
Arbutin gives quicker results than vitamin C. Arbutin acts as hydroquinone, which means it has depigmenting factors. Vitamin C is not easily absorbed into the skin, whereas arbutin absorbs quickly into the skin. That's why arbutin is the best ingredient to include in your skincare routine.
Both ingredients offer similar benefits, such as brightening skin tone and evening skin complexion. However, Kojic Acid also has antimicrobial properties, making it effective for acne-prone skin. Niacinamide, on the other hand, offers additional benefits like reducing inflammation and improving skin texture.