Centella Asiatica, an herb native to Asia, continues to rise in popularity as a skincare ingredient. It was traditionally used (in medicine) to improve burns, wounds, scratches, and other skin conditions such as psoriasis and leprosy. Today, it is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe redness and inflammation.

While Centella Asiatica has been around for many years, it first became popular in South Korea, where it has appeared in moisturizers, known as cica creams. Since then, it has become a star ingredient in many skin care formulations. 

Continue reading as we explore more about this ingredient and answer the most common questions including:  

• What is Centella Asiatica?

• What are the benefits of Centella Asiatica for skin?

• How to use Centella Asiatica

• What are the risks and side effects of Centella Asiatica?

What is Centella Asiatica? 

Also known as cica, gotu kola, tiger grass, and various other names, Centella Asiatica is a perennial plant native to wetlands in Asia. Although it has been used medicinally and in cooking for centuries, it is rich in amino acids, fatty acids, and phytochemicals that are known to boost hydration and help improve skin elasticity. 

One of the main reasons Centella Asiatica is growing in popularity is because it is sensitive-skin friendly. Sensitive skin type is relatively common in Asian populations due to a thinner outer skin layer. This skin type benefits from cica because of its anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe redness and irritation. It can also help strengthen the skin barrier, further protecting the skin from environmental aggressors. 

What are the benefits of Centella Asiatica for skin?

There are many reasons why many skincare brands are using cica in their formulations and why consumers are also choosing products with this ingredient. Here are the benefits of Centella Asiatica for skin: 

• Moisturizes dry, sensitive skin – this herb has an ability to draw moisture to the skin, making it a great option for those with dry, red, and irritated skin. It can help prevent water loss and retain moisture, as well as boost the skin’s elasticity and plumpness. 

• Helps heal burns and wounds – cica is known to have wound-healing properties that can help treat wounds, cuts, and burns. It can also boost circulation to the affected area, promote collagen production, and soothe inflammation, which all facilitate the wound healing process. 

• Reduces and soothes inflammation – cica contains active compounds (asiaticoside, madecassoside, and asiatic acid) that can calm the skin and reduce inflammation. It can provide relief for eczema, rosacea, and sensitive skin, and even reduce redness and swelling.

• May reduce signs of aging – as Centella Asiatica can make the skin look hydrated and plumper, it can promote a more youthful appearance. This herb, furthermore, has phytochemicals that can reduce oxidative stress on the cells and four active compounds that help stimulate collagen production. 

• Provides antioxidant protection – the plant has antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals, which are known to cause dullness and premature aging. It can reduce oxidative stress, as well as hyperpigmentation and fine lines. 

How to use Centella Asiatica

Centella Asiatica is available in different skincare formulations such as cleansers, toners, ampoules, serums, sunscreens, and sheet masks. You can choose to incorporate it in your morning and/or night skincare routine. And if you, for instance, are using retinoids, which can sometimes irritate the skin, a cica cream or balm can reduce or prevent irritation. 

Every product with Centella Asiatica is a bit different. If you, however, want to get the most out of it, it is better to stick with products that stay on your face for a long time, such as serums, creams, and lotions. You can also incorporate a cica sheet or face mask into your routine to intensely hydrate, soothe, and calm your skin.

At Dr. Sylvia Skin Care, we have our Centella Asiatica Hydro Repair Mask, formulated with hyaluronic acid, Centella Asiatica, and a quick-soothing complex. It provides intense hydration, calms redness, and promotes the repair of sensitive skin. It is ideal for those recovering from sunburn, harsh treatments, or skin sensitivity.

What are the risks and side effects of Centella Asiatica?

Centella Asiatica in skincare is generally safe to use for most people. Its side effect profile is minimal, because of its hydrating, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also reduce the risk of side effects in many harsh actives, which is why it is common to add cica to such formulas. 

While many can benefit from this ingredient, especially those with sensitive skin, it is not ideal for everyone. Although it is rare to be allergic to cica, the most common reaction is contact dermatitis or a burning sensation. This makes it important to do a patch test first and wait 24 hours to see how your skin reacts.

A quick overview

With all the benefits of Centella Asiatica, it is no wonder why it became a popular ingredient in many skincare. It helps dry, red, irritated, or inflamed skin, as well as strengthens the skin barrier for a healthier and youthful-looking complexion.

For more skincare tips and product recommendations, browse through our website or blog. You can also contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore to schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctor.