Decrypting the potential of lipidic vesicular system for delivery enhancement of tranexamic acid in melasma hyperpigmentation treatment

Melasma is a prevalent pigmentary disorder characterized by irregular brown patches on sun-exposed face and neck regions, driven by increased vascular proliferation and dysregulated melanogenesis. Although benign, untreated melasma significantly impacts quality of life from emotional stress and cosmetic impairment especially for Asian women. Melasma complex and diverse aetiology involves melanocyte hyperactivity triggered by UVR exposure, genetics, hormones and aging. The effectiveness of current topical and physical therapies such as depigmenting agents, peels, photoablation and dermabrasion etc. have varying efficacy but limited by high recurrence rates. Tranexamic acid (TA) is a lysine-derived antifibrinolytic drug which has demonstrated high potential in reduction of melanogenic factors, inhibiting melanogenesis. Lipidic vesicular delivery systems including liposomes, ethosomes, niosomes, transferosomes and phytosomes showed extensive capability in the delivery of TA into deeper epidermal layers with improved stability and penetration efficacy. Multiple studies have shown that lipidic vesicular formulations of TA offer improved safety and efficacy compared to conventional delivery methods. However, further research and clinical trials will be necessary to verify the long-term safety and feasibility and to set up standardized protocols for this novel delivery system. Therefore, this review aims to scrutinize the potential of lipidic vesicles as a cutting-edge novel approach for the enhancement of TA's efficacy in melasma hyperpigmentation treatment, as well as offering possibilities for future research and clinical applications in dermatology.