Tranexamic Acid Serum

Tranexamic Acid Serum

Tranexamic acid has become one of the most talked-about additions in modern skincare — and for good reason. It is a favourite in many brightening-style formulations and is valued for helping support a more even, balanced-looking complexion. This serum takes the structure of our Hero Hyaluronic Acid Serum and gives it a powerful upgrade, pairing tranexamic acid with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and glycerin for a silky, hydration-focused formula you can use every day.

Tranexamic acid works beautifully in water-based systems, making it ideal for lightweight serums that absorb quickly and sit comfortably under moisturisers, oils or makeup. It is especially well-loved for helping to refine the overall appearance of the skin and promoting a smoother, more uniform look over time. It also complements niacinamide exceptionally well, which is why you’ll often see the two together in advanced skincare formulas.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) and glycerin round out the base of this serum by drawing moisture to the surface layers of the skin and helping it look plump and refreshed. The result is a clean, elegant formula that feels light on application but delivers a noticeable boost of hydration.

Together, these ingredients create a serum that is simple, effective and suitable for most skin types. It can be used on its own or slotted into your existing routine as your daily brightening-and-hydration step.

Tranexamic Acid Serum Formula

Ingredients

Makes 100g -  Adjust batch volume with Go Native NZ's Batch Size Calculator 

• 89% | 89g distilled water
• 5% | 5g niacinamide
• 2% | 2g tranexamic acid
• 2% | 2g glycerin (certified organic)
• 1% | 1g hyaluronic acid powder
• 1% | 1g preservative (Geogard 221 or Microcare DB)

Method

1. Add the distilled water to a beaker or mixing jug.

2. Add the glycerin, niacinamide and tranexamic acid, sprinkling powders slowly while mixing well.

3. Slowly sprinkle the hyaluronic acid powder over the surface of the water and stir. It will clump at first, but keep mixing as much as possible. An electric beater can help speed hydration.

4. Cover and leave the mixture to sit, preferably overnight, until the hyaluronic acid has fully hydrated and the serum is smooth.

5. Once uniform, stir in the preservative (Geogard 221 or Microcare DB).

6. Check the pH if you can — aim for pH 5–7. Adjust only if necessary.

7. Pour into a 100ml bottle or five 20ml dropper bottles. Use one bottle for daily application and refill as needed.

Substitutions

This serum is flexible, and you can customise the water phase to suit your preferences.

Aloe vera juice

You can replace part or all of the distilled water with aloe vera juice if you prefer a serum with a more soothing, refreshing feel. Aloe pairs well with niacinamide, HA and tranexamic acid.

Hydrosols

You can replace 10–30% of the distilled water with any hydrosol.

Hydrosols add a light natural aroma and enhance the sensory feel without affecting texture or stability, as long as the preservative remains at full strength.

Usage note

If you substitute water with hydrosols or aloe juice, the rest of the formula stays exactly the same. No other adjustments are needed, just keep the final total at 100%.

How to Use Tranexamic Acid Serum

For best results, apply this serum to slightly damp skin. This helps hyaluronic acid and glycerin draw in surface moisture more effectively and gives a smoother finish.

How much to use

Use 2–4 drops per application.
This is enough for the face and can be stretched to the neck if needed.
It absorbs quickly, so you don’t need a large amount.

Recommended order in your skincare routine

1. Cleanser
2. Toner or hydrosol mist (leave skin lightly damp)
3. Tranexamic acid serum - 2–4 drops
4. Face oils and/or moisturiser - Following with a moisturiser or oil helps lock in surface hydration and enhances the serum’s overall effect.

You can use this serum morning or evening, or both if your skin enjoys it.

Quick Cheat Method: Upgrade Our Hero HA Serum with Tranexamic Acid

If you don’t want to make this serum from scratch, you can easily upgrade our Hero Hyaluronic Acid Serum by adding tranexamic acid to it. This gives you a brightening-style formula with almost no extra work.

How to do it

1. Decant your Hero HA Serum
   Pour 98g of Hero HA Serum into a clean beaker.

2. Add tranexamic acid at 2%
   Add 2g tranexamic acid powder.

3. Stir thoroughly
   Mix for 2–3 minutes until dissolved.
   (TXA dissolves easily in this water-based formula.)

4. Let it sit
   Allow the serum to rest for a few hours so any micro-grains fully dissolve.

5. Bottle it
   Pour into a clean 100ml bottle, or decant it into smaller bottles.

6. Use as normal — 2–4 drops on damp skin.

Notes

• This maintains an exact 2% TXA concentration.
• The preservative system in the Hero HA Serum remains effective.
• No pH adjustment is usually required, but you can check if desired.

Video Tutorial - Make Hyaluronic Acid Serum 

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