written by Allison Goins, Ph.D. | Published on April 3rd, 2024 at 6:00 pm | Updated on January 22nd, 2024 at 7:15 pm
Have you been missing out on a timeless skincare secret that could help you achieve flawless skin? Is Centella Asiatica extract an ingredient you need in your routine? If you’re a skincare enthusiast, especially in the realm of Korean skincare, you might already be familiar with Centella Asiatica. However, if this ingredient is new to you, stay tuned to discover what it does and how it can help you achieve your skincare goals. If you’re here to explore how it works and if there’s solid science backing up the claims made by the brands that use it, you’re in the right place.
What is Centella Asiatica | Composition | Wound Healing | Anti-Inflammatory | Anti-Aging
About the Author: Hi there, skincare sleuths! I’m Dr. Allison, a science enthusiast with a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering. Though my career path may have wandered, my fascination with how things (including skincare!) interact with the body never left me. That’s why I founded Relatable Science – a refuge from confusing claims and jargon. Here, I translate the research behind ingredients like Centella Asiatica (today’s botanical star!) into actionable advice for you. My articles? Powered by deep dives into peer-reviewed studies, ensuring you get the latest on its potential to soothe, heal, and maybe even boost collagen. Ready to ditch the confusion and embrace informed choices? Let’s untangle the science of Centella Asiatica, one research paper at a time, and unlock the radiant skin you deserve!
What is Centella Asiatica?
Centella Asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, Pennywort, or Wild Violet, is a botanical herb frequently found in Korean skincare products. This herbaceous, perennial plant thrives in the wetlands of Asia and serves not only as a medicinal herb in skincare but also as a culinary ingredient. Visually, Centella Asiatica features long, round, green veiny leaves and may produce white or reddish flowers.
The Chemical Components of Centella
Once harvested, Centella’s chemical compounds are extracted and transformed into centella asiatica extract that is used in skincare formulations. The primary heroes behind Centella’s benefits are chemicals called triterpenoids. Triterpenoids can make up 1-8% of Centella Asiatica extract. Additionally, Centella contains centellose, centelloside, and madecassoside, which are also beneficial in skincare.
Thanks to these triterpenoids, Centella enjoys a prominent place in the world of natural skincare ingredients. Companies often tout its benefits, claiming it can combat aging, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Let’s dive into the scientific evidence supporting these claims.
Related Post: Aging in Skin: What Causes It and How to Prevent It?
Potential Benefits of Centella Asiatica
Centella Asiatica for Promoting Wound Healing
The benefits of triterpenoids in Centella resemble those of collagen in skincare when it is injected into the skin. Research indicates that triterpenoids promote wound healing and collagen production. It’s important to note that many studies used oral or subcutaneous dosages of Centella, which came into contact with cells during wound healing experiments. This differs from the topical application typically used in skincare.
One study I came across applied Centella Asiatica extract topically, combining it with another well-known skincare ingredient, vitamin C, and compared it to a control group that used a cream with no active ingredients. Consequently, it’s challenging to pinpoint whether the benefits were from the Centella or the vitamin C.
Centella Asiatica as an Anti-Inflammatory Ingredient
Chemically, triterpenes function as antioxidants, molecules that combat cell oxidation. This function is linked to anti-inflammatory properties. Whenever you want to prevent damage or you want to brighten your skin and fade dark spots; antioxidants are a great addition to your skincare routine.
Related Post: The Ultimate Guide to Natural Antioxidants for Skin
Anti-Aging Effects of Centella
In contrast to its anti-inflammatory claims, the anti-aging benefits of Centella Asiatica extract are not as definitive. Research suggests that triterpenes can activate an apoptosis pathway, causing cells to die in a programmed manner through chemical signals. This leads to cell turnover. This would mean Centella Asiatica functions similarly to a retinoid. However, there is no concrete evidence supporting that claim.
Related Post: Demystifying “Anti-Aging”: What it Means and Why it Matters
Summary of the Potential Benefits
To sum it up, the oral and subcutaneous application of Centella extract has demonstrated positive outcomes. However, when used topically, there isn’t substantial evidence to support the same benefits seen orally or injected.
As Centella gains popularity, more studies may emerge regarding its effects. With additional research, we could potentially see new evidence that may change our understanding of the topical application of Centella and its benefits.
If you currently incorporate Centella into your skincare routine, please share your experience in the comments below. If you found this article informative, give it a thumbs up and share it with others looking to decode the secrets of skincare ingredients.
Now that you’ve uncovered the fascinating world of Centella Asiatica and its potential benefits, it’s time to take action. Whether you’re eager to try Centella for its wound-healing properties, intrigued by its anti-inflammatory potential, or simply curious about its role in your skincare journey, there’s no better time than now to experiment.
Remember, your skincare journey is unique, and Centella Asiatica might just be the missing piece you’ve been searching for. Embrace the opportunity to explore its potential, and don’t hesitate to take the next step towards healthier, glowing skin.
Let’s embark on this journey together!
Article Sources
Hashim, P.; Sidek, H.; Helan, M.H.M.; Sabery, A.; Palanisamy, U.D.; Ilham, M. Triterpene Composition and Bioactivities of Centella asiatica. Molecules 2011, 16, 1310-1322. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules16021310
Kamonwan Jenwitheesuk, Porntip Rojsanga, Bowornsilp Chowchuen, Palakorn Surakunprapha, “A Prospective Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind Trial of the Efficacy Using Centella Cream for Scar Improvement“, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2018, Article ID 9525624, 9 pages, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9525624
Bylka, W., Znajdek-Awiżeń, P., Studzińska-Sroka, E., Dańczak-Pazdrowska, A., & Brzezińska, M. (2014). Centella asiatica in Dermatology: An Overview. Phytotherapy Research, 28(8), 1117-1124. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5110