Treatment
Anua
Niacinamide 10 + TXA 4 Serum
A two-active brightening serum with no superfluous ingredients. Niacinamide at 10% works on the melanin transfer pathway; tranexamic acid at 4% targets the plasmin activity that UV exposure triggers to produce excess melanin. Together they address uneven tone from two distinct biochemical angles.
Active ingredient
Niacinamide (10%), Tranexamic Acid (4%)
Aesu’s POV
True benefit — Niacinamide at 10% exceeds the clinically-studied 5% threshold, and TXA at 4% sits squarely in the dermatological evidence range. The dual-mechanism approach inhibiting both melanin transfer and plasmin-triggered synthesis.
What it does
The real benefit
Niacinamide at 10% inhibits the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes — this is the step where melanin actually causes visible skin tone unevenness. Clinical trials at 5% demonstrate brightening efficacy; 10% exceeds this threshold and may additionally support barrier function and reduce sebum oxidation. Tranexamic acid at 4% inhibits the plasminogen/plasmin pathway that UV exposure activates to produce excess melanin — it works upstream of where niacinamide acts, creating a complementary dual-mechanism approach. The two-active formula minimises layering complexity for sensitive or reactive skin.
What it does not
The honest limits
Neither active prevents new hyperpigmentation without SPF — sun protection is non-negotiable alongside this serum. At high concentrations, niacinamide can occasionally cause transient skin flushing in the first weeks of use; if redness appears, introduce PM-only before adding morning use. Does not address textural irregularities, fine lines, or active breakouts — this is a tone-correction treatment, not a comprehensive serum. Visible improvement in established hyperpigmentation requires 8–12 weeks minimum of consistent use.
Ritual
How to use
Apply three to four drops to cleansed, toned skin as the first serum layer — before any oils or heavier treatments. Can be used morning and evening; if new to 10% niacinamide, introduce PM-only for two weeks before adding AM use. Always follow with SPF in the morning — neither active provides photostability.
Routine
Found in routine
Routine pairing coming soon.