Centella Asiatica Extract at a Glance
- Star ingredient of South Korean cica creams
- Has potent antioxidant properties and is a rich source of amino acids
- Good hydrating ingredient to soothe compromised skin
- Used for culinary and medical purposes in Asia
Centella Asiatica Extract Description
first gained popularity in South Korea, where it’s the star ingredient in moisturizers known as “cica creams.” “Cica” is a shortening of the term Centella asiatica, and these creams are well known for their soothing, anti-inflammatory properties.
itself also has been shown to have potent antioxidant properties and to be a rich source of amino acids, and there’s additional research showing that it’s a good hydrating ingredient to soothe upset or compromised skin.
Concentrations of 5% show notable improvement in skin’s moisture content, although lower amounts also have value for skin, including soothing and antioxidant benefits. For example, amounts between 0.2–0.5% help maintain hydration and improve skin’s barrier by encouraging ceramide NS, one of the “mortar substances” that keep skin’s surface smooth and intact.
Centella Asiatica Extract References
Phytomedicine, April 2018, pages 110–119
Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, August 2017, pages 311–315
Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jan-Feb 2016, pages 27–33
Postepy Dermatologii I, February 2013, pages 46–49
Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2010, pages 546–556
Scientific Reports, June 2021, ePublication