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Tranexamic Acid Night Treatment

Tranexamic Acid Night Treatment

Product Description

Product overview

Made in UK INDIE

By The INKEY List — A lightweight overnight gel serum powered by 2% Tranexamic Acid, 2% Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C derivative), and 2% Acai Berry Extract. Formulated to target stubborn hyperpigmentation, post-acne marks, sun spots, and uneven skin tone while you sleep. Budget-friendly, vegan, and gentle enough for daily use on all skin tones.

2% Tranexamic Acid 2% Vitamin C Derivative 2% Acai Berry Extract Vegan Society Certified Cruelty-Free (Leaping Bunny) Fragrance-Free Pregnancy-Safe Gluten-Free Non-Comedogenic Dermatologist-Approved
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Format
Gel Serum
Size
30ml / 1 fl oz
Use Time
AM + PM
Target
Dark Spots
pH Range
~5.0-6.0
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Fades Dark Spots

Blocks melanin pathways triggered by inflammation to reduce hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Thick gel
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
1-2 minutes
Finish
Slightly tacky

Fades Dark Spots

Blocks melanin pathways triggered by inflammation to reduce hyperpigmentation and post-acne marks.

Brightens Dull Skin

Triple-active formula with Vitamin C derivative delivers visibly more radiant, even-toned complexion.

Gentle on Barrier

Unlike harsh acids, Tranexamic Acid works without peeling, making it safe for daily long-term use.

Affordable Science

Clinical-grade active at a drugstore price — delivers dermatologist-favorite ingredient under $20.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Confirmed safe by The INKEY List brand. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.

Layers with Retinol & Vitamin C

Gentle enough to pair with other actives. Use with niacinamide, AHA/BHA, and peptides.

Not Fungal Acne Safe

Contains Lecithin, Polysorbate 60, and Sorbitan Isostearate which may feed Malassezia.

Safe for All Skin Tones

No skin-lightening risks — works by blocking melanin overproduction, not bleaching.

Daily SPF Required

Sun protection is essential to prevent new dark spots from forming and protect results.

Patch Test Recommended

Apply a small amount behind the ear for 24 hours before full-face use if skin is reactive.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Tranexamic Acid 2%Proven

A synthetic amino acid derived from lysine, originally used in medicine to control bleeding. Topically, it interrupts the melanin-triggering signals between skin cells and pigment-producing melanocytes, making it highly effective for melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and sun spots.

  • Mechanism: Blocks UV-induced inflammation and prevents melanocyte activation.
  • Clinical efficacy: Studies show topical tranexamic acid at 2-5% reduces melasma comparable to hydroquinone without bleaching effects.
  • Suitability: Safe for all skin tones including Fitzpatrick IV-VI, unlike many brightening acids.
The 2% concentration is considered the optimal sweet spot — strong enough for visible results, gentle enough for daily use.

Ascorbyl Glucoside (Vitamin C) 2%Proven

A stable, water-soluble Vitamin C derivative that converts to pure L-ascorbic acid upon contact with skin enzymes. Unlike pure Vitamin C, it resists oxidation, making it more shelf-stable and less irritating for sensitive skin.

  • Function: Antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin synthesis.
  • Benefits: Brightens overall skin tone, supports collagen production, and reduces oxidative stress from UV exposure.
  • Stability: More stable than L-ascorbic acid, less prone to oxidation when exposed to air or light.

Acai Berry Extract 2%Promising

Derived from Euterpe Oleracea fruit, this superfruit extract is rich in polyphenols, anthocyanins, and ferulic acid — a natural Vitamin C stabilizer. It delivers antioxidant protection and boosts overall complexion clarity.

  • Antioxidants: Contains one of the highest concentrations of anthocyanins in any berry, protecting skin from environmental damage.
  • Nutrients: Natural source of Vitamins A, C, and E plus essential fatty acids.
  • Synergy: Ferulic acid content enhances the efficacy of Vitamin C derivatives in the formula.

Squalane ~1%Proven

A stable, plant-derived emollient that mimics the skin's natural sebum. In this formula, it helps dissolve and deliver the water-soluble tranexamic acid more effectively while providing a thin occlusive layer to prevent moisture loss.

  • Biocompatibility: Molecularly similar to skin's natural squalene, so it's extremely well-tolerated.
  • Penetration aid: Enhances absorption of active ingredients into the skin barrier.
  • Non-comedogenic: Rating of 0-1, safe for acne-prone skin.

Glycerin + Butylene Glycol 5-15%Proven

A powerful humectant duo that pulls water into the upper layers of skin, keeping it plump and hydrated throughout the night. These ingredients also act as solvents to help deliver the tranexamic acid more effectively.

  • Hydration boost: Glycerin is clinically proven to be more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant.
  • Barrier support: Helps maintain skin barrier integrity, reducing transepidermal water loss.

23 ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Tranexamic Acid, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, 1-Methylhydantoin-2-Imide, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetearyl Olivate, Benzyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Lecithin, Squalane, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Polysorbate 60, Dehydroacetic Acid, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sorbitan Isostearate.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Mineral Oil, Artificial Fragrance, Essential Oils, Drying Alcohols, Dyes, Gluten, Animal-Derived Ingredients, Hydroquinone, Retinoids.
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Hydrator
4
This Product
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Apply after cleansing and hydrating serums, before moisturizer. Wait 30 seconds for absorption. Can be used AM and PM — daily SPF is essential in the morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Prep

Start with clean, damp skin. Apply your preferred toner or hydrator (like hyaluronic acid) first.

2

Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount

One or two pumps is enough for the entire face and neck. A little goes a long way — too much causes pilling.

3

Apply in Thin Layer

Massage onto face and neck gently. Focus on areas with dark spots or uneven tone. Can be spot-applied to body scars too.

4

Wait & Layer

Allow 30 seconds to absorb before applying moisturizer. In the morning, always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen.

5

Be Consistent

Use daily for minimum 8-12 weeks. Tranexamic Acid works gradually but produces long-lasting results.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have post-acne marks, sun spots, or melasma
  • You want a gentle alternative to hydroquinone
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe brightener
  • You have deeper skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV-VI)
  • You have sensitive skin that reacts to acids
  • You want to layer with retinol or Vitamin C
  • You're on a budget but want effective actives

Consider alternatives if:

  • You struggle with fungal acne (Malassezia)
  • You expect overnight results — takes 8-12+ weeks
  • You dislike slightly tacky textures
  • You have very dry skin needing richer hydration
  • You want a higher tranexamic acid concentration (3-5%)
  • You prefer pump-free dropper packaging
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight gel formula, oil-free. Won't add shine or clog pores. Silicone-free finish.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides hydration but needs a richer moisturizer layered on top to seal in moisture.

Combination
Excellent

Balances well across the T-zone and cheeks. Absorbs evenly without over-drying or greasiness.

Sensitive
Good

Fragrance-free and gentle. Low irritation potential, but contains Phenoxyethanol — patch test first.

Acne-Prone
Excellent

Non-comedogenic (1/5). Excellent for fading post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from breakouts.

Mature Skin
Excellent

Ideal for age spots and sun damage. Antioxidants support anti-aging without irritation.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 10-12+
Week 1-2

Improved Hydration & Smoother Texture

Skin feels more hydrated and looks slightly plumper thanks to glycerin and butylene glycol. Minimal visible brightening yet.

68% noticed
Week 3-4

Subtle Brightening Begins

Overall complexion appears slightly more radiant. Some users see minor fading of lighter post-acne marks.

54% noticed
Week 6-8

Visible Dark Spot Fading

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and sun spots visibly lighter. Skin tone appears more even overall.

71% noticed
Week 10-12+

Significant Tone Evening

Stubborn melasma and deep hyperpigmentation show substantial improvement. Results continue with consistent use and SPF.

79% noticed
09

Ratings by platform

3K+ REVIEWS
Sephora
4.0
Rating
2,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Results take patience — some users don't see changes for 6+ weeks.
Ulta Beauty
3.7
Rating
1,097
Reviews
Main complaint: Tacky finish and pilling when layered with other products.
Amazon
4.3
Rating
391
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily use.
Boots UK
4.3
Rating
189
Reviews
Main complaint: Slight chemical-cosmetic scent some find off-putting.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Affordable price point under $20 for a clinical active
  • Excellent for fading post-acne marks on all skin tones
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe alternative to retinol
  • Gentle enough for sensitive skin and daily use
  • Hygienic airless pump prevents oxidation
  • Vegan Society and Cruelty-Free certified
  • Layers easily with other actives like niacinamide
  • Works as both face and body spot treatment

Criticized

  • Slightly tacky finish that can feel sticky
  • May pill if too much is applied or layered quickly
  • Requires 8-12 weeks for visible results
  • Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
  • Only 30ml size — finishes fast with twice-daily use
  • Mild chemical scent noticeable to some
  • Lower 2% concentration vs 3-5% competitors
  • Packaging feels budget compared to premium brands
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Discoloration Correcting Serum
$12.00
Budget Pick

Contains 3% cetyl tranexamate mesylate (a TXA derivative) + 4% niacinamide. Lighter watery texture, no tacky finish. Higher rated on Amazon (4.4★ from 13,900+ reviews).

82% Match
Tranexamic Topical Acid 5%
$19.99
Similar Price

Stronger 5% tranexamic acid + niacinamide, kojic acid, and licorice root. Better for stubborn melasma, but may be too strong for sensitive skin.

70% Match
Tranexamic 03%
$11.00
Budget Pick

3% tranexamic acid with mandelic acid for gentle exfoliation. Thinner liquid texture, fragrance-free, great for acne-prone skin with PIH.

68% Match
Tranexamic Acid 5% Serum with Niacinamide 5%
$18.00
Similar Price

5% tranexamic acid + 5% niacinamide + aloe. K-beauty formulation with more hydrating feel. No pilling or stickiness reported.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Discoloration Defense Dark Spot Serum
Key Actives 3% TXA + 5% Niacinamide + Kojic
Size 30ml
Price per ml $3.60/ml
Texture Lightweight serum
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fragrance Free

Paula's Choice Discoloration Repair Serum

Key Actives 3% TXA + 5% Niacinamide + Bakuchiol
Size 20ml
Price per ml $2.40/ml
Texture Lightweight lotion
Pregnancy Safe Caution
Fragrance Free
Discoloration Correcting Serum
Key Actives 3% TXA Derivative + 4% Niacinamide
Size 30ml
Price per ml $0.40/ml
Texture Watery serum
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fragrance Free
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature optimal.

Packaging

Opaque white airless pump (30ml) — prevents oxidation of Vitamin C derivative.

Travel Friendly

Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. Compact design ideal for carry-on travel.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. The INKEY List officially confirms this product is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Tranexamic Acid is considered a safe alternative for addressing pregnancy-related melasma (chloasma). As always, consult your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.

No. This formula contains Lecithin, Polysorbate 60, and Sorbitan Isostearate, which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger fungal acne breakouts. If you suffer from pityrosporum folliculitis, look for fully fungal-acne-safe alternatives like Naturium Tranexamic Topical Acid or certain K-beauty formulations.

Yes, Tranexamic Acid plays well with other actives. It can be layered with Vitamin C in the AM, retinol at night, and niacinamide anytime. Be cautious combining with strong AHAs or BHAs in the same routine — alternate nights to avoid over-exfoliation. Always wait 30 seconds between layers to prevent pilling.

This serum works exceptionally well for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types dealing with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It's also suitable for normal, mature, and sensitive skin. Dry skin types may need to layer a richer moisturizer on top. It's particularly effective for all skin tones including deeper complexions (Fitzpatrick IV-VI) where harsh brighteners can cause rebound pigmentation.

Tranexamic Acid works gradually. Most users report visible hydration and texture improvements within 2 weeks, subtle brightening around week 3-4, and noticeable dark spot fading at 6-8 weeks. Stubborn melasma and deep hyperpigmentation typically require 10-12+ weeks of consistent daily use combined with daily SPF 30+ sunscreen to see significant results.

Apply after cleansing, toning, and any hydrating serums (like hyaluronic acid), but before your moisturizer. The brand originally positioned it as a moisturizer replacement, but layering a light moisturizer on top is now standard practice. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect your progress.

No. With a comedogenic rating of 1/5, this formula is considered non-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin. It contains no heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients. Squalane, the only oil-like ingredient, is rated 0-1 and actually mimics skin's natural sebum. Many users with acne-prone skin report it helps fade their post-breakout marks without triggering new pimples.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The airless pump packaging helps prevent oxidation of the Vitamin C derivative and contamination. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. If the formula changes color significantly or develops an off smell, discontinue use. With twice-daily application, a 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The INKEY List Tranexamic Acid Night Treatment is a budget-friendly winner for anyone tackling stubborn post-acne marks, sun spots, or melasma. Its trio of 2% Tranexamic Acid, 2% Vitamin C derivative, and 2% Acai Berry Extract delivers gentle, gradual brightening that's safe for all skin tones, pregnancy, and sensitive skin. The slightly tacky finish and need for 8-12 weeks of patience are the main drawbacks — but at under $20 for a dermatologist-favorite ingredient, it's one of the best entry-level brightening serums on the market. Best paired with consistent SPF use and layered moisturizer for optimal results.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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 «promises» 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Ascorbyl Glucoside
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
65% 17% 17%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 23 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Ascorbyl Glucoside
Antioxidant
brightening Brightening
Redness
Texture
Pores
0 Unknown
Tranexamic Acid
Astringent, Skin Conditioning
Irritation
Dark Spots
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS