What it is

→ Tranexamic acid (TXA) microinjections are a dermatological treatment where tiny doses of tranexamic acid are injected directly into the skin to treat melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), sunspots, and uneven skin tone.

→ Tranexamic acid works by blocking the plasminogen–plasmin pathway, which reduces melanocyte activity and prevents excessive melanin production.

→ Instead of oral or topical TXA, microinjections deliver the ingredient directly to the dermis, ensuring higher local concentration with fewer systemic side effects.

→ In Korea, TXA microinjections are considered a safe and highly effective option for stubborn pigmentation, often combined with lasers, peels, or brightening therapies.

Why it’s done

→ Tranexamic acid microinjections are performed to:

• Treat melasma, especially vascular or dermal types resistant to creams and lasers.
• Lighten hyperpigmentation from acne scars or skin injury.
• Reduce redness and vascular contribution to pigmentation.
• Prevent recurrence of pigmentation after initial treatments.
• Improve overall skin clarity and brightness.

→ Patients choose TXA microinjections because they target pigmentation at its source without significant downtime.

Alternatives

→ Alternatives to TXA microinjections include:

• Topical TXA creams/serums → gentler but slower results.
• Oral TXA → effective but carries systemic risks (blood clotting concerns).
• Cosmelan, Dermamelan, Enlighten peels → for surface pigmentation.
• Laser toning (Q-switched Nd:YAG, pico-lasers) → for deeper pigmentation.
• Cocktail mesotherapy (skin boosters) → mixing TXA with vitamins, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants.

→ TXA microinjections stand out because they combine safety (local effect) with strong efficacy.

Preparation

→ Before tranexamic acid microinjections, patients should:

• Avoid sun exposure for at least 1–2 weeks.
• Stop blood-thinning medications (aspirin, certain supplements) if approved by the doctor.
• Discontinue harsh skincare (retinoids, acids) 3–5 days before.
• Shave or clean the treatment area if necessary.
• Undergo patch testing if sensitive to TXA or mesotherapy formulas.

→ In Korea, dermatologists also perform skin analysis and melasma mapping before starting injections.

How it’s Done

→ A standard TXA microinjection procedure includes:

1. Cleansing and antiseptic preparation of the skin.
2. Topical numbing cream applied for comfort (20–30 minutes).
3. Microinjection technique:
   • Using ultra-fine needles or mesotherapy guns, TXA is injected at shallow depths (1–2 mm) across pigmented areas.
   • Injections are evenly spaced for uniform results.
4. Soothing mask or cooling device applied afterward.

→ Duration → 20–30 minutes per session.
→ Frequency → usually 4–6 sessions at 2–4 week intervals.
→ Maintenance → booster sessions every few months if melasma is chronic.

Recovery

→ Recovery after TXA microinjections is very mild:

• Immediate effects → slight redness, pinpoint marks, or mild swelling.
• 24–48 hours → skin usually returns to normal.
• 1–2 weeks → gradual improvement in pigmentation and brightness.
• 1–3 months → noticeable reduction in melasma and even skin tone.

→ Aftercare recommendations:

• Apply soothing creams or aloe vera.
• Avoid sun exposure, saunas, and heavy workouts for 24–48 hours.
• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
• Refrain from applying harsh skincare for 3–5 days.

Complications

→ While generally safe, possible side effects include:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising at injection sites.
• Mild pain or sensitivity during and after procedure.
• Allergic reaction (rare).
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) if aftercare is not followed.
• Vascular risks → much lower than oral TXA but still monitored.

→ With professional application, the risks remain minimal.

Treatment options in Korea

→ Korea is one of the global leaders in pigmentation management and pioneers in TXA use for melasma:

• Dermatology-led protocols → injections are done by trained dermatologists, not estheticians.
• Advanced mesotherapy devices → Korean clinics use precision mesoguns for even distribution.
• Combination therapies → TXA injections are often paired with laser toning, LED therapy, or whitening serums.
• Personalized formulas → some clinics mix TXA with vitamin C, glutathione, or hyaluronic acid for dual brightening and hydration.
• High safety standards → strict sterile protocols minimize infection or irritation risks.
• Medical tourism → international patients benefit from customized pigmentation programs with English-speaking staff.

→ With cutting-edge mesotherapy technology, advanced pigmentation expertise, and integrated aftercare, Korea is one of the best destinations for tranexamic acid microinjection treatments.