NK-C6012 Tranexamic Acid – The Advanced Whitening Agent for Stubborn Hyperpigmentation
Product Overview:
Tranexamic acid (INCI: Tranexamic Acid, CAS 1197‑18‑8) is a synthetic amino acid derivative with potent anti‑plasmin (protease inhibitor) activity. Unlike traditional whitening agents that only inhibit tyrosinase, tranexamic acid works upstream by:
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Preventing the interaction between melanocytes and keratinocytes – reducing melanin transfer to the skin surface.
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Inhibiting the protease‑activated receptor (PAR‑2) – which is involved in melanosome transfer.
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Blocking the UV‑induced melanin formation pathway – stopping dark spots from becoming darker, larger, or more numerous.
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Reducing inflammation – especially helpful for post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation (acne marks, melasma).
| Benefit | Mechanism |
|---|---|
| ✨ Prevents & fades dark spots | Inhibits melanin transfer; reduces existing pigmentation; stops spots from worsening |
| 🧴 Safe & well‑tolerated | Non‑cytotoxic, non‑irritating, no phototoxicity – suitable for sensitive skin |
| 🔬 Protease inhibitor | Blocks plasmin activity, reducing inflammatory signals that trigger melanogenesis |
| 🌞 UV‑protection synergy | Prevents UV‑induced pigmentation; works well with sunscreens and vitamin C |
| 💧 Stable & easy to formulate | High purity (≥99.6%), water‑soluble, heat‑stable, wide pH compatibility (5‑8) |
| 🤝 Synergistic | Enhances efficacy of niacinamide, vitamin C derivatives, and arbutin |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Trade name | NK-C6012 |
| INCI name | Tranexamic Acid |
| CAS No. | 1197‑18‑8 |
| Molecular formula | C₈H₁₅NO₂ |
| Molecular weight | 142.16 |
| Appearance | White to off‑white crystalline powder |
| Purity (HPLC) | ≥99.6% |
| pH (2% solution) | 7.0 – 8.0 |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and acetic acid; slightly soluble in acetone/ethanol |
| Melting point | 111.0 – 116.0°C |
| Heavy metals | <2 ppm |
| Arsenic | <2 ppm |
| Microbial limits | Total bacteria <10 CFU/g; mould & yeast <10 CFU/g |
| Recommended dosage | 1.0 – 3.0% |
| Formulation pH | Optimal 5.0 – 6.0 (for maximal stability/efficacy) |
| Addition method | Dissolve in water phase at room temperature or up to 50°C |
| Feature | Hydroquinone | Kojic Acid | Vitamin C | Tranexamic Acid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Tyrosinase inhibitor | Tyrosinase inhibitor | Antioxidant | Melanocyte‑keratinocyte interaction blocker |
| Irritation | High | Moderate | Low (at low pH) | Very low |
| Stability | Moderate | Poor | Poor (oxidises) | Excellent |
| Works on melasma | Moderate | Limited | Moderate | Proven effective |
| Synergy with others | - | - | - | High |
Formulation Guidelines:
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Dosage: 1.0 – 3.0% (2‑3% for intensive spot treatment; 1‑2% for daily brightening).
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pH: Adjust to 5.0 – 6.0 for optimal performance.
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Addition: Dissolve in water phase at room temperature or up to 50°C (heat‑stable).
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Applications:
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Whitening & brightening serums
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Melasma / post‑inflammatory hyperpigmentation creams
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After‑sun pigmentation control lotions
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Anti‑dark spot ampoules
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Synergistic combinations with niacinamide, ethyl ascorbic acid, or alpha‑arbutin
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Packaging & Storage:
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Packaging: 25 kg / fibre drum
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Storage: Keep sealed, cool, dry, away from light
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Shelf life: 24 months
Tranexamic Acid – The intelligent whitening agent that stops pigmentation at its source, without irritation.
