5% Tranexamic Acid Serum
5% Tranexamic Acid Serum
Product Description
A lightweight, fragrance-free brightening serum powered by 5% Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid, and Alpha-Arbutin. Designed to visibly fade dark spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and uneven skin tone while delivering gentle hydration with dual-weight Hyaluronic Acid. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
โจ Texture & Feel
Multi-Pathway Brightening
Combines 4 brightening actives โ Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid, and Alpha-Arbutin โ that work through different mechanisms to target melanin overproduction from multiple angles.
Dual-Weight Hyaluronic Acid
Contains both Sodium Hyaluronate and Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate (mini HA) for multi-layer hydration โ surface moisture plus deeper skin penetration.
Botanical Soothing Complex
Gardenia, Lavender, and Phellodendron bark extracts provide antioxidant and calming benefits, reducing irritation while the actives work on pigmentation.
Clean & Minimal Formula
Only 15 ingredients โ no fragrance, no parabens, no silicones, no oils, no harsh alcohols, no sulfates. Designed for even the most reactive and sensitive skin types.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Topical tranexamic acid is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy. Always consult your OB-GYN before use.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The oil-free, silicone-free formula is safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Oil-free and silicone-free gel formula with zero comedogenic ingredients. Will not clog pores or trigger breakouts.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and formulated with soothing botanicals. However, a patch test is recommended for very reactive skin.
Tranexamic acid is generally safe to use alongside retinol. However, introduce slowly and avoid layering with other strong actives (AHA/BHA) at the same time to prevent irritation.
Brightening actives can increase photosensitivity. Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this serum for best results and to prevent rebound pigmentation.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งช Tranexamic Acid 5% Proven
A synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine that inhibits melanin production by blocking the plasminogen/plasmin pathway. Originally used in medicine to reduce heavy bleeding, it has become a gold-standard ingredient for treating hyperpigmentation, melasma, and PIH topically.
- Study: A 2012 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed topical 5% tranexamic acid significantly reduced melasma severity after 12 weeks.
- Mechanism: Blocks UV-induced melanocyte activation and reduces transfer of melanosomes to keratinocytes.
- Advantage: Gentler than hydroquinone with no risk of ochronosis from long-term use.
โจ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) N/A Proven
A multitasking powerhouse form of Vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces pore appearance, controls oil production, and inhibits melanin transfer to the skin surface.
- Study: Research in the British Journal of Dermatology (2002) found 5% niacinamide significantly decreased hyperpigmentation after 4 weeks of use.
- Synergy: Works synergistically with tranexamic acid โ niacinamide blocks melanin transfer while TXA blocks melanin production.
- Bonus: Strengthens the skin's ceramide barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
๐ Kojic Acid N/A Proven
A natural brightening agent derived from fungi (Aspergillus oryzae) used in Japanese sake fermentation. Inhibits tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis.
- Study: A 2019 study on human melanoma cells found kojic acid to be the most effective tyrosinase inhibitor compared to both alpha- and beta-arbutin.
- Mechanism: Chelates copper ions required by the tyrosinase enzyme, effectively shutting down melanin production at the source.
๐ธ Alpha-Arbutin N/A Proven
A biosynthetic, pure form of arbutin derived from the bearberry plant. Acts as a slow-release inhibitor of tyrosinase, providing a gentle yet effective approach to reducing dark spots and uneven pigmentation.
- Study: A 1995 study found alpha-arbutin to be 10x more effective at inhibiting melanin synthesis than beta-arbutin on mouse melanoma cells.
- Safety: Considered a safe alternative to hydroquinone with no cytotoxicity risk at typical cosmetic concentrations.
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate + Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Dual-weight Proven
Two forms of hyaluronic acid for multi-depth hydration. Standard Sodium Hyaluronate hydrates the skin surface, while Hydrolyzed (mini) HA with ultra-low molecular weight (10 kDa) penetrates deeper layers for plumping from within.
- Capacity: Hyaluronic acid can bind up to 1,000x its own weight in water, making it one of the most effective humectants available.
- Penetration: The hydrolyzed form's smaller molecular size allows it to reach the dermis where standard HA cannot.
15 ingredients
Water, Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Kojic Acid, Alpha-Arbutin, Arginine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier creams. Use AM and/or PM. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean, slightly damp skin. Use your regular cleanser and optional toner first.
Apply 2-3 Drops
Dispense 2-3 drops onto your fingertips and gently press the serum into the face and neck, focusing on areas of hyperpigmentation or uneven tone.
Allow to Absorb
Wait 20-30 seconds for the serum to fully absorb before proceeding to the next step in your routine.
Follow with Moisturizer + SPF
Apply your moisturizer to lock in the serum. In the morning, always follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You struggle with dark spots, sun spots, or post-acne marks (PIH)
- You have melasma or stubborn discoloration
- You want a gentler alternative to hydroquinone
- You need a pregnancy-safe brightening serum
- You prefer a minimal, clean ingredient list
- You have fungal acne and need a safe brightening option
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You need immediate, dramatic results (this requires 4-8+ weeks)
- You want a rich, moisturizing serum (this is lightweight โ layer a cream on top)
- You are allergic or sensitive to kojic acid
- You prefer a serum with clinically disclosed concentrations for all actives
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Oil-free, lightweight gel formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production.
Dual-weight hyaluronic acid provides hydration, but dry skin types will want to layer a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top for adequate moisture.
Lightweight gel texture balances well across all zones โ hydrates dry patches without overwhelming the T-zone.
Fragrance-free and alcohol-free with soothing botanicals. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin due to kojic acid content.
Non-comedogenic (0/5), oil-free, silicone-free, and fungal acne safe. Excellent for fading post-acne marks without triggering new breakouts.
๐ Results Timeline
Hydration & Skin Calming
Skin feels more hydrated and smoother. The hyaluronic acid and soothing botanicals begin to improve overall skin texture and comfort. No visible change in pigmentation yet.
70% noticed improved hydrationEarly Brightening
Overall complexion begins to look brighter and more even. Some users report that newer, lighter PIH marks start to fade. Skin tone appears more luminous.
55% noticed early brighteningVisible Dark Spot Reduction
Significant fading of dark spots, sunspots, and post-acne marks. Melasma patches begin to lighten noticeably. Skin tone looks more uniform and balanced.
80% noticed visible improvementContinued Improvement
Stubborn hyperpigmentation continues to fade with consistent use. Best results achieved with daily SPF application. Some users can reduce full-coverage foundation to light concealer.
90% reported meaningful resultsโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- 4-in-1 brightening actives in one serum (TXA + Niacinamide + Kojic Acid + Arbutin)
- Ultra-clean, minimal formula with only 15 ingredients
- Pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, and non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly under makeup
- Affordable price point for the active concentration
- Vegan and cruelty-free
โ Criticized
- Small 1 oz (30ml) bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily use
- Exact concentrations of niacinamide, arbutin, and kojic acid not disclosed
- Requires 4-8+ weeks for visible results โ not instant
- Dropper packaging could be more precise
- Not widely available in physical retail stores
- May cause mild sensitivity in some users due to kojic acid
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 5% TXA + 5% niacinamide combo in a simple, clean formula. Lacks arbutin and kojic acid for multi-pathway brightening but is fungal acne safe and well-reviewed. Great minimal alternative.
Uses Cetyl Tranexamate Mesylate (a TXA derivative) rather than direct tranexamic acid, plus niacinamide. Gentler approach but potentially less potent. No arbutin or kojic acid.
Lower TXA concentration (3% vs 5%) but includes HPA (hydroxyphenoxy propionic acid) for additional brightening. Indian brand with strong clinical backing. Good for sensitive beginners.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
ANAI RUI 5% TXA Serum
~$13.98Naturium Tranexamic Topical Acid 5%
~$15.00Cos De BAHA TXA 5% + Niacinamide 5%
~$11.99Paula's Choice Discoloration Repair
~$55.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use.
Glass dropper bottle with pipette for precise application
Yes โ 30ml (1 oz) is well under the 100ml / 3.4 oz TSA carry-on limit
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this serum is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens โ the most commonly flagged ingredients for expectant and nursing mothers. Topical tranexamic acid has not shown systemic absorption at concerning levels. However, always consult your healthcare provider before adding any new product to your routine during pregnancy.
Yes. This serum is free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed Malassezia yeast. The oil-free, silicone-free gel formula makes it a safe choice for those prone to fungal acne. It contains no comedogenic triggers and is one of the cleaner brightening options available for fungal acne sufferers.
Tranexamic acid is gentle and compatible with most actives. It pairs well with retinol (use TXA in the AM, retinol in the PM) and with vitamin C (can be layered together or used at different times). For AHA/BHA, use them on alternate nights or apply the acid first, wait 20 minutes, then apply the TXA serum. Avoid layering multiple strong actives at once if your skin is sensitive โ introduce one at a time.
This serum is formulated for all skin types, including oily, dry, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Its lightweight, oil-free gel texture is particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin. Dry skin types should follow with a richer moisturizer. It is especially effective for anyone dealing with dark spots, PIH, melasma, or uneven skin tone.
Most users report initial brightening and improved hydration within 2-3 weeks. Visible reduction in dark spots and PIH typically begins around weeks 4-6. Significant improvement in melasma and stubborn discoloration usually requires 8-12 weeks of consistent daily use. Results vary by skin type, severity of pigmentation, and consistency of use. Daily SPF application is essential to see maximum benefits.
Apply this serum as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. Use 2-3 drops on clean skin, morning and/or evening. In the AM, always follow with SPF 30+. It layers well under all types of moisturizers, sunscreens, and makeup without pilling.
No. This serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It is completely oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no ingredients known to clog pores. The lightweight gel formula is ideal for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin. It is also fungal acne safe, making it one of the cleanest brightening serums on the market for breakout-prone skin.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the dropper cap tightly sealed after each use. At the recommended usage of 2-3 drops twice daily, the 30ml bottle typically lasts about 6-8 weeks.
Verdict: The ANAI RUI 5% Tranexamic Acid Serum is an impressive budget brightening serum that packs four proven pigment-fighting actives into an ultra-clean, 15-ingredient formula. It checks nearly every safety box โ pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and vegan. The multi-pathway approach (TXA + Niacinamide + Kojic Acid + Arbutin) gives it an edge over simpler competitors at a similar price point. The main drawbacks are the small 1 oz size for daily use and the lack of disclosed concentrations for the supporting actives. Best suited for those looking for a gentle, daily-use dark spot corrector that plays well with other products. Patience is key โ commit to at least 8 weeks to see meaningful results.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging ยซpromisesยป it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Tranexamic Acid
Astringent, Skin Conditioning
|
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Alpha-Arbutin
Antioxidant, Skin Conditioning, Bleaching
|
Brightening
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Arginine
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
|