Tranexamic acid has become an increasingly recognised active ingredient in modern cosmetic formulation, particularly in products designed to support a more even-looking complexion and address the appearance of uneven skin tone.
For formulators, however, understanding what an ingredient does is only part of the picture. Solubility, concentration, pH, processing temperature and the method of incorporation can all influence how successfully an active is used in a finished formulation.
In this practical guide, we explore tranexamic acid from a formulator’s perspective, including its role in skincare, formulation considerations and the key technical factors to consider before adding it to your next formula.
What is Tranexamic Acid?
Tranexamic acid (INCI: Tranexamic Acid) is a cosmetic active supplied as a white crystalline powder. It is increasingly used in skincare formulations designed to support a more even-looking complexion and improve the appearance of uneven skin tone.
From a formulation perspective, tranexamic acid is particularly useful because it can be incorporated into a range of water-based and emulsion systems, including serums, toners, creams, lotions and targeted dark-spot formulations.
The Tranexamic Acid supplied by BYC Lab is cosmetic grade, with CAS No. 1197-18-8. The current batch has an assay of 99.92%.
Why is Tranexamic Acid Used in Skincare?
Tranexamic acid is used in cosmetic formulations aimed at improving the appearance of uneven skin tone and areas of visible discolouration. This makes it particularly relevant to brightening serums, targeted dark-spot products, toners, creams and lotions.
For formulators, its value is not only in its cosmetic application but also in its versatility across different product formats. The appropriate concentration should be selected according to the formulation type, intended use and overall formula design.
How Much Tranexamic Acid Should You Use?
The appropriate usage level depends on the type of product being formulated. The technical guidance for BYC Lab Tranexamic Acid provides the following application ranges:
| Product type | Suggested usage |
|---|---|
| Essence / Serum | 1.0–3.0% |
| Cream & Lotion | 1.0–2.0% |
| Toner | 0.5–1.5% |
| Face Mask | 1.0–2.0% |
| Spot-corrector / Dark Spot Serum | 2.0–5.0% |
| Body Lotion | 1.0–3.0% |
| Hand Cream | 1.0–4.0% |
These ranges are formulation guidance rather than a substitute for finished-product testing. Formulators remain responsible for assessing ingredient suitability, stability, preservation and regulatory compliance within their complete formulation.
Tranexamic Acid Solubility: How Should It Be Incorporated?
BYC Lab Tranexamic Acid is freely soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. This makes the water phase the appropriate starting point for incorporation into most cosmetic formulations.
For formulation, add Tranexamic Acid into the water phase at a recommended temperature of 40°C or below and mix until adequately dissolved. The technical data indicate that the ingredient can tolerate short-term heating up to 60°C; however, prolonged heating above 70°C should be avoided to help maintain stability.
Formulation tip: Where practical, dissolve the Tranexamic Acid fully in the aqueous phase before completing the formulation.
What pH Is Suitable for Tranexamic Acid?
It is important to distinguish between the measured pH of the raw ingredient in solution and the recommended pH range of the finished formulation.
For BYC Lab Tranexamic Acid, a 5% aqueous solution has a specified pH of 7.0–8.0. The technical guidance gives a suitable finished-formulation pH range of 4.0–8.0.
This means formulators should evaluate the pH of the complete finished product rather than assuming that the pH of the Tranexamic Acid solution determines the final formulation pH. Always check and adjust the finished formulation as required, taking the requirements of the other ingredients into account.
Common Formulation Mistakes to Avoid
Even when working with a water-soluble active such as Tranexamic Acid, processing conditions can affect the success of the finished formulation. Some practical points to avoid include:
- Using excessive heat unnecessarily. Add at 40°C or below where possible. Although short-term heating up to 60°C can be tolerated, prolonged heating above 70°C should be avoided.
- Ignoring the finished product pH. The recommended formulation range is pH 4.0–8.0. Measure the completed formulation rather than relying on the pH of an individual ingredient solution.
- Assuming one usage level suits every product. Recommended concentrations vary according to the formulation type.
- Skipping finished-product testing. A suitable ingredient concentration does not by itself establish the stability, preservation or overall performance of a complete cosmetic formulation.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store Tranexamic Acid sealed in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place, protected from direct sunlight, excessive heat and moisture. The documented shelf life is two years from the date of production when the original packaging remains complete and unopened.
Formulate with BYC Lab Tranexamic Acid
BYC Lab Tranexamic Acid is a cosmetic-grade white crystalline powder supplied with supporting technical and batch documentation to help formulators make informed formulation decisions.
→ Shop BYC Lab Tranexamic Acid
Formulation Guidance Notice
The information provided in this article is intended for cosmetic formulation education and ingredient guidance. Recommended usage levels and processing information should be considered within the context of the complete formulation. Formulators and manufacturers remain responsible for conducting appropriate stability, compatibility and preservative testing and for ensuring that their finished cosmetic products comply with applicable regulatory requirements.