Centella Asiatica for skincare has a wide range of applications and is known by numerous names. Centella Asiatica, a member of the parsley family, is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda for thousands of years. It is also found in many different cuisines.
Although it has long been a frequent ingredient in skin care products, its popularity has significantly increased in the last few years.
Centella Asiatica – What is it?
For thousands of years, Centella Asiatica has been a mainstay of traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic treatment. According to legend, the plant with leaves that resemble lily pads is known as “Tiger Grass” because injured tigers roll in it. 
In tropical regions of Asia and Africa, the herb grows wild. The landscapes of other Pacific islands are likewise dotted with it. In addition to its many culinary applications, the plant is edible and used orally to cure a variety of illnesses. Indeed, it is commonly referred to as the “herb of longevity.”
Numerous studies demonstrate that Centella asiatica’s diverse range of active substances actually helps skin. All things considered, this plant extract is a versatile substance best known for its calming, moisturizing, and antioxidant qualities.
Hydration And Moisture
It is also a rich source of amino acids that help to hydrate and calm irritated or damaged skin, making it an excellent component for dry or sensitive skin.
Centella Asiatica’s remarkable capacity to preserve hydration and protect the skin’s moisture barrier is one of the main factors contributing to its widespread use in skincare products.
In addition to helping the skin maintain moisture, experts say it also calms redness and lowers inflammation. Because of these characteristics, it is particularly helpful for people with sensitive skin diseases like rosacea or eczema, where the skin barrier is frequently weakened and prone to dryness and irritation.
Anti-Aging And Antioxidant Protection
The entire Centella asiatica plant has anti-aging and antioxidant protection properties. According to a 2023 study, the plant’s chemical makeup includes flavonoids and phenolic chemicals. Both substances aid in reducing the harm that environmental factors that cause aging, such as pollution and UV radiation, do to the skin (3).
Skin Protection And Brightening
Did you think Centella asiatica was limited to that? Rethink your thought. According to a 2021 study, Centella asiatica products may also help restore the skin’s protective layer and lessen some of the obvious consequences of UV damage.
Centella Asiatica’s potent antioxidant qualities can help prevent skin dullness even if it isn’t thought of as a key brightening component. Over term, it might help sustain a more luminous complexion by counteracting the negative impacts of environmental stressors including pollution and UV exposure. On its own, meanwhile, it isn’t renowned for dramatically lightening skin or for eliminating dark spots.
Anti-Acne Properties
Although it isn’t formally categorized as an anti-acne drug, Centella Asiatica can nonetheless be helpful in acne treatment regimens. Its calming and anti-inflammatory qualities help soothe irritated skin and lessen redness, which makes it a perfect addition to more potent acne treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. It protects the skin barrier during treatment and encourages a healthier appearance, even if it doesn’t directly treat breakouts.
How To Use?
Adding Centella Asiatica to almost any skincare regimen is adaptable and straightforward. Most skin types handle it well, and it works well with a variety of active ingredients because of its soothing, moisturizing qualities.
When applied in the morning, at night, or both, Centella blends in perfectly with daily routines and doesn’t irritate skin or interfere with other treatments.
Due to its widespread use, Centella Asiatica is now present in a wide range of products, including moisturizers that restore barriers and mild cleansers. It is advised to use a leave-on product, such as a moisturizer, toner, serum, or treatment, for optimal effects. These forms give the chemical more time on the skin, allowing it to fully provide its moisturizing, calming, and antioxidant properties.
Conclusion
Centella asiatica is a calming component for skin care that is thought to have little adverse effects. There is always a chance of an allergic reaction because it is a plant extract that includes many different ingredients, but this is extremely uncommon. In general, Centella asiatica is well tolerated.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded that Centella asiatica is safe for use in cosmetics at the current concentrations because of its advantages for the skin and minimal risk profile.
