Centella Asiatica Extract: What it is and products containing it
Quick Facts:
– anti-aging properties
– helps reduce visible signs of sun damage and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier
– soothing and repairing effects
If you’re a fan of Korean skin care (aka K-beauty), you’ve probably heard about the ingredient Centella asiatica. Known by a variety of names, including Brahmi, Asiatic pennywort, tiger grass, and gotu kola, this plant extract is hailed as a hydrating skin-saver. Centella asiatica is included in numerous moisturizers from South Korean brands and, not surprisingly, it's also garnering interest from Western beauty brands.
What is Centella asiatica extract?
Centella asiatica is a perennial herb that grows primarily in Asia. For years, it’s had both culinary and medicinal uses, but like many traditional plant extracts, it’s gaining popularity as a skin care ingredient.
What are the benefits?
Centella asiatica is rich in amino acids, beta carotene, fatty acids, and numerous potent phytochemicals. Extracts have been found to calm inflammation, speed wound healing, stimulate new cell growth, build collagen, and improve circulation.
What are the common uses?
Gotu Kola is a well-known medicinal herb in Asia. There it is used for wound healing as well as for depressive moods and anxiety states. But, it is mainly known in the asian skincare industry, especially in K-Beauty. In Central Europe it is a superfood. In fact, the plants contain numerous valuable minerals and vitamins, although their taste is usually remembered as bitter.
Who is it good for?
Centella Asiatica can be used on any skin types as it helps reduce redness and calms down the skin. Nevertheless, it is a real hero ingredient when it comes to irritated, sensitive and dry skin because of its hydrating and and soothing properties.
Are there any side effects?
Centella asiatica applied in the recommended doses is not toxic and possible side effects are rare. Centella asiatica may cause local allergic reactions and burning which is why we would always recommend doing a patch test on your hand first.
INCI (Internationale Nomenklatur für kosmetische Inhaltsstoffe): Centella asiatica extract
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) Description: Centella asiatica extract is the extract of the whole plant hydrocotyl, centella asiatica.
CAS Number: 84696-21-9
