Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a medication with a diverse range of clinical applications. When given orally or by IV it reduces uncontrolled bleeding due to a variety of conditions and procedures. When used topically it is a very effective and safe treatment for melasma and hyperpigmentation.  When applied topically after microneedling it is particularly effective. 

Tranexamic acid inhibits UV-induced pigment formation in skin cells through a particular pathway of melanin production.  It is a type of receptor blocking medication. 

You can, and there are topical creams available containing tranexamic acid including Alastin’s A-luminate and Mesoestetic’s Trans3X.  But when pure transexamic acid is applied immediately after microneedling it is delivered more deeply into the skin and at higher concentrations which increases effectiveness.  

This procedure is best suited to individuals suffering from melasma or hyperpigmentation due to the sun which has been resistant to BBL and other forms of laser therapy.  

Tranexamic acid will inhibit new pigmentation from forming and microneedling will help you clear existing pigmentation by initiating a wound healing response. This will fade or eliminate pigmentation and improve skin tone and evenness.  Microneedling will improve skin texture, fine lines and pores. 

ArtMed uses a published and clinically proven treatment protocol which involved 4 rounds of microneedling done 2 weeks apart. 

Yes, because this is a medical protocol you do need a consultation with one of our medical laser technicians to determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment and don’t have any contraindications to treatment.  For clients new to ArtMed there is a $75 consultation fee but this will be applied to the cost of treatment if you decide to proceed. 

After you have improved your pigmentation with the Transformative Tranexamic Facial series of treatments you will need to prevent new pigment formation. This is best achieved by using a topical TXA product daily along with a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB blocking tinted mineral sunscreen.  Avoiding excess heat is also important if you suffer from melasma (midday heat, hot kitchens, hot tubs etc.) 

There are few contraindications to treatment, and the procedure is well tolerated with minimal adverse effects. The primary contraindications to treatment include: 

• pregnancy  

• lactation  

• recent isotretinoin use (Accutane) 

• photosensitizing drug intake 

• systemic diseases such as diabetes or lupus,  

• active facial dermatoses, history of keloids,  

• allergy to anaesthetics or  

• known contraindicatiosn to microneedling 

ArtMed always provides post care instructions after treatment but the recovery from TXA after microneedling is similar to recovery after microneedling of any kind. Mild redness and transient burning are the most commonly reported symptoms and typically resolves within 48–72 h without intervention. 

It is highly recommended you have VISIA photo analysis done prior to initiating treatment so your existing pigmentation issues can be properly documented and treatment results tracked.  It’s also important to follow the protocol and do all treatments and post care as recommended as this is a medical protocol and deviation from the treatment plan may lead to unsatisfactory results. 

Because this is a medical protocol, we do not allow patients to do just one treatment.  However, once a full series is completed, a single treatment for maintenance may be done periodically if indicated. 

The series of 4 microneedling/TXA sessions costs $1800 and includes 4 rounds of microneedling with TXA and a full-size Hexam cleanser, Hale Derma spray, Alumier Recovery Balm and Alumier Sheer Hydration tinted sunscreen (value of products is $260).  

At ArtMed we offer a variety of treatment options for melasma and hyperpigmentation. Which treatment is recommended will depend on the severity of your hyperpigmentation, the type of hyperpigmentation and previous treatment history. ArtMed offers Dermamelan™ a very effective mask applied in clinic that induces peeling which improves serious hyperpigmentation. We also offer Broad Band Light (BBL™), hyperpigmentation skin care programs and topical TXA products. Given the options available it’s very important you have a consultation to determine which treatment may best suit your condition, needs and budget.