Centella Asiatica
This plant extract is known for its wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
What is Centella Asiatica?
CAS Number
16830-15-2
Formula
Complex mixture (triterpene saponins)
Molecular Weight
Varies by component
Also known as: Cica, Tiger Grass, Gotu Kola, Pegaga, Brahmi
What does Centella Asiatica do for skin?
Contains four key triterpenes: asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid. Stimulates type I collagen synthesis via TGF-beta pathway. Activates SMAD signaling for wound healing. Asiaticoside increases tensile strength of newly formed skin. Anti-inflammatory via inhibition of iNOS and COX-2. Antioxidant activity through enhancement of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase.
Typical concentration: 0.1-5% (standardized to triterpene content)
Is Centella Asiatica safe?
Long history of safe use (traditional medicine for centuries). CIR Expert Panel: safe as used in cosmetics. Rare cases of allergic contact dermatitis reported. GRAS status for dietary supplements.
What does the research say about Centella Asiatica?
Centella asiatica in dermatology: an overview
Bylka et al., Postepy Dermatologii i Alergologii, 2014
Wound healing activity of asiaticoside
Shukla et al., Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 1999
Can I mix Centella Asiatica with other ingredients?
Centella and ceramides together are the ultimate barrier repair duo. Both soothe and strengthen damaged or sensitized skin.
Centella soothes while niacinamide strengthens. Together they calm redness and rebuild the skin barrier.
Centella + hyaluronic acid provides deep hydration with calming benefits. Great for sensitive or irritated skin.
Both are K-beauty staples for repair. Snail mucin hydrates while centella calms. Together they accelerate healing.
Centella asiatica is excellent alongside retinoids. It soothes the irritation and redness that retinoids can cause, making your retinoid routine more tolerable.
Growth Factors
Growth factors paired with centella accelerate skin repair and wound healing. Both support tissue regeneration.
Read all ingredient interaction guides for layering order and science-backed advice.