The INKEY List Tranexamic Acid Serum is a lightweight, affordable serum designed to fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and reduce hyperpigmentation.
It contains 2% tranexamic acid, vitamin C, and acai berry extract for brightening. If you’re looking for similar alternatives, here are ten great options.
1. Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum
A budget-friendly serum that effectively targets dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Key Features:
- 3% tranexamic acid for reducing pigmentation
- Niacinamide for brightening and calming skin
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Pros:
- Affordable and gentle
- Works well for post-acne marks
- Suitable for daily use
Cons:
- Takes time to show results
- May not be strong enough for deep discoloration
2. Naturium Tranexamic Topical Acid 5%
A high-strength serum for stubborn pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Key Features:
- 5% tranexamic acid for maximum brightening
- Kojic acid for extra skin tone correction
- Niacinamide for hydration and skin barrier support
Pros:
- Stronger than INKEY List’s formula
- Works well on stubborn dark spots
- Non-greasy and fragrance-free
Cons:
- May be too strong for sensitive skin
- Requires sunscreen for best results
3. La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum
A dermatologist-recommended brightening serum with a gentle formula.
Key Features:
- 5% niacinamide for hydration and brightening
- Tranexamic acid for dark spot correction
- Hyaluronic acid for moisture
Pros:
- Works on all skin types
- Hydrates while reducing pigmentation
- Dermatologist-approved formula
Cons:
- Pricier than INKEY List
- Takes time for visible improvements
4. Paula’s Choice Discoloration Repair Serum
A powerful formula designed for stubborn dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Key Features:
- 3% tranexamic acid for pigmentation control
- Bakuchiol for gentle exfoliation
- Niacinamide for added hydration
Pros:
- Effective on old and new dark spots
- Lightweight, non-sticky texture
- Works well on all skin types
Cons:
- Expensive compared to drugstore options
- Requires consistent use for best results
5. The Ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2%
A vitamin C-based brightening serum with added skin tone correction.
Key Features:
- 8% ascorbic acid for brightening
- 2% alpha arbutin for pigmentation reduction
- Water-free, stable formula
Pros:
- Affordable and highly effective
- Targets hyperpigmentation and dullness
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
Cons:
- Can be irritating for sensitive skin
- Needs sunscreen for best results
6. Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Serum
A strong formula that fades hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory marks.
Key Features:
- Tranexamic acid for reducing pigmentation
- Niacinamide for even skin tone
- Licorice root for added brightening
Pros:
- Works well for stubborn discoloration
- Hydrating and lightweight
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons:
- Has a strong scent
- Takes a few weeks to show results
7. Versed Out of Sight Dark Spot Gel
A targeted treatment for dark spots with a non-sticky formula.
Key Features:
- 2% tranexamic acid for fading pigmentation
- Kojic acid for extra brightening
- Licorice root extract for soothing
Pros:
- Works well for acne-prone skin
- Absorbs quickly without residue
- Affordable and fragrance-free
Cons:
- Not as hydrating as some alternatives
- Needs daily use for best results
8. Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Dark Spot Serum
A vitamin C serum that brightens and improves overall skin clarity.
Key Features:
- Vitamin C and niacinamide for glow
- Tranexamic acid for reducing pigmentation
- Hyaluronic acid for moisture
Pros:
- Works well for dull and uneven skin
- Hydrates while fading dark spots
- Lightweight and non-sticky
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other options
- Citrus extracts may be irritating for sensitive skin
9. Murad Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum
A fast-acting serum designed to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.
Key Features:
- Tranexamic acid for dark spot correction
- Glycolic acid for gentle exfoliation
- Vitamin C for brightening
Pros:
- Works well for sun spots and acne scars
- Fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons:
- Higher price than most alternatives
- Can cause mild irritation for sensitive skin
10. The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
A simple but effective serum for fading dark spots and evening out skin tone.
Key Features:
- 2% alpha arbutin for reducing pigmentation
- Hyaluronic acid for added hydration
- Lightweight, gel-like formula
Pros:
- Affordable and effective
- Works well for post-acne marks
- Gentle enough for daily use
Cons:
- Works slower than tranexamic acid-based formulas
- Requires consistent use for best results
Which Dupe Is the Best?
For the closest match to The INKEY List Tranexamic Acid Serum, Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum is the best budget-friendly option with similar brightening ingredients. If you need a stronger treatment, Naturium Tranexamic Topical Acid 5% provides maximum pigmentation correction with a higher concentration.
