A brightening shot in a serum: 5% tranexamic acid for persistent dark spots that can resist lasers alone

• Suitable for: All skin types and tones, including dry, normal, oily, combination and sensitive skin; tested on all skin tones.
• Targeted concerns: Persistent dark spots, stubborn brown patches, post-blemish marks, sun-triggered and hormone-triggered discolouration, uneven skin tone, dullness

SkinCeuticals TNXA-SHOT Discoloration Defense is the new daily brightening serum that replaces the original Discoloration Defense in Canada. Its patent-pending complex pairs 5% tranexamic acid (40% more than the previous formula) with 3% Endophytol and 1% alpha-amino acid to address the three triggers that keep dark spots coming back: sun and pollution, hormonal signals and the skin's own stress response. A second multi-phase complex of 4% niacinamide, 0.15% SymWhite 377, 0.15% LHA and 0.2% carnosine works on pigment production, pigment transfer, surface renewal and antioxidant protection, so the formula helps visibly reduce persistent discolouration from several directions at once. The milky-white serum is lightweight with a fresh finish, layers under moisturizer and SPF, and is physician-tested to complement in-clinic laser treatments.

What is new versus Discoloration Defense

• 5% tranexamic acid (up from 3%), SkinCeuticals' highest concentration to date
• 3% Endophytol, the dandelion-root patent also found in the 2026 C E Ferulic, to counter pollution-triggered pigment
• 1% alpha-amino acid to intercept the hormonal pigment signal
• 4% niacinamide, 0.15% SymWhite 377, 0.15% LHA and 0.2% carnosine replace kojic acid and HEPES
• New milky-white texture, lightweight and fresh instead of yellow and sticky

SkinCeuticals TNXA-SHOT FAQs

Is TNXA-SHOT the same as Discoloration Defense?
No. TNXA-SHOT is the 2026 successor. Discoloration Defense has been discontinued in Canada and TNXA-SHOT takes its place with a higher 5% tranexamic acid concentration, two new actives and a new texture.

How do I use TNXA-SHOT?
Apply 4 to 5 drops to clean, dry face and neck morning and night. In the morning follow with your SkinCeuticals vitamin C, moisturizer and SPF; at night apply before moisturizer.

Can I use it after a laser treatment?
TNXA-SHOT is physician-tested to complement laser treatments for discolouration. Follow your provider's timing on when to resume actives after any procedure.