Treatment Overview
Tranexamic Acid (TXA) Therapy is a popular dermatology treatment in Korea for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), acne pigmentation, melasma, and stubborn discoloration.
Originally developed as an anti-bleeding medication, TXA was later found to block melanocyte over-activation and reduce pigmentation. In Korean dermatology, TXA is delivered in multiple ways: oral tablets, topical creams/serums, intradermal injections (mesotherapy), and IV whitening drips.
Korean dermatologists often combine TXA therapy with Pico or Nd:YAG lasers, PRP, and Vitamin C drips for a stronger effect against acne-related PIH.
Purpose & Benefits
- PIH Reduction: Inhibits melanin production, helping fade acne marks.
- Melasma-Friendly: Works on stubborn pigment patches resistant to lasers.
- Prevents Recurrence: Reduces chances of pigmentation rebound after treatment.
- Safe for Asian Skin: Gentle, non-ablative method with minimal risk.
- Multi-Mode Therapy: Oral, injection, or topical delivery options.
Ideal Candidates
TXA Therapy in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with acne-related PIH or post-trauma pigmentation.
- Individuals with chronic pigmentation issues such as melasma.
- Adults with sensitive or PIH-prone skin seeking safe therapy.
- Patients looking for combination treatment with lasers or boosters.
Possible Risks & Complications
TXA is safe when prescribed by dermatologists, but risks depend on delivery method:
- Oral TXA: Rare risk of blood clotting in predisposed individuals (screening is required).
- Injections/IV: Mild bruising or swelling at injection site.
- Topical TXA: Rare irritation or redness.
- Overall: Korean clinics use low-dose regimens and patient screening to ensure safety.
Surgical Techniques Used
- Oral TXA: Low-dose daily tablets (commonly 250 mg once or twice daily).
- Intradermal Injections (Meso-TXA): Micro-injections of TXA into PIH or melasma patches.
- Topical TXA: Creams or serums applied to affected areas for maintenance.
- IV Whitening Drips: TXA combined with Vitamin C or Glutathione for systemic brightening.
Protocol: Typically 8–12 weeks of therapy, with visible improvements in 1–3 months. Maintenance therapy is often recommended.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately: No downtime for oral/topical; mild redness or swelling for injections.
1–2 Weeks: Pigmentation begins to lighten gradually.
1–3 Months: Visible fading of PIH and acne marks.
Aftercare Tips:
- Daily SPF 50+ sunscreen to prevent new pigmentation.
- Continue hydrating skincare and barrier creams.
- Avoid triggers like excessive sun exposure and aggressive exfoliants.
- Maintain results with mild lasers or topical brightening agents.
Results & Longevity
- After 2–4 Weeks: Fresher tone, mild fading of dark marks.
- After 8–12 Weeks: Noticeable clearance of PIH and melasma.
- Long-Term: With maintenance, results last 6–12 months; ongoing care needed for chronic pigmentation.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Screening
- Dermatologist evaluates acne history, PIH severity, and clotting risk factors.
- Decision on oral, injection, or topical TXA delivery.
Preparation
- Bloodwork may be requested for oral/IV TXA.
- Skin cleansing and numbing cream if injections are used.
TXA Session
- Oral or topical: Prescription and home routine provided.
- Mesotherapy: TXA micro-injections into pigmentation areas.
- IV Drip: TXA + Vitamin C infusion for brightening.
- Duration: 15–30 minutes per session for clinic-based therapies.
Post-Treatment Care
- Sunscreen and antioxidant serums recommended.
- Hydration emphasized.
Follow-Up
- 8–12 weeks of therapy recommended.
- Often combined with Pico, Nd:YAG, or PRP for stronger clearance.
Unique Korean Advantages
- Multi-Delivery Options: Oral, injection, topical, or IV tailored to patient needs.
- Combination Protocols: TXA integrated with Pico/Nd:YAG or whitening programs.
- Asian-Specific Safety: Protocols minimize risk of clotting and rebound PIH.
- Affordable Packages: Multi-session or multi-modality programs priced lower than in Western clinics.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Oral TXA (per month): USD 50 – 150
- Topical TXA Serums/Creams: USD 80 – 200
- Injection/Mesotherapy (per session): USD 150 – 300
- IV Whitening Drip (TXA + Vitamins): USD 200 – 400
Example Korean Packages:
- Basic TXA Program (Oral + Topical, 8 weeks): USD 300–500
- TXA Mesotherapy (3 sessions): USD 500–800
- Premium Whitening Program (TXA IV + Lasers/Boosters): USD 1,500–2,500
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: TXA mesotherapy + Nd:YAG for PIH.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Oral + injection TXA combined with Pico Laser.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: TXA drips + PRP for pigment and rejuvenation.
- View Plastic & Dermatology: TXA + Fraxel for acne PIH + texture.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium TXA infusion with regenerative boosters.
