What's so great about Centella Asiatica/ Cica/ Gotu Kola?
Skincare can get tough, and the DERMABELL Team would like to share our knowledge about what makes up the products you put on your skin: Ingredients! Stay tuned for our Ingredient of the Week every Monday, starting today!
Last Friday, we asked you on our Instagram (@dermabellofficial_en):
Which ingredient soothes irritated skin, Centella Asiatica or Vitamin C?
What is Centella Asiatica?
Also known as Tiger Grass, Cica, Gotu Kola & Indian Mugwort amongst many other names, Centella Asiatica is a small herb that commonly grows in swampy areas of Southeast Asian countries.
Main Functions:
- Soothing
- Anti-Inflammation
- Anti-Aging
- Antioxidant
- Healing
Centella Asiatica isn't just for one skin type alone. On troubled skin, it works to prevent breakouts and heal broken skin. On dry or easily irritated skin, it can help to soothe and hydrate skin to prevent further inflammations.
EWG Score: 1
History:
Known for its medicinal properties, Centella Asiatica has been known to heal and provide anti-inflammatory benefits in treatments of many cultures, including Chinese medicine.
Now, it is a popular ingredient in many skincare products due to its multitude of benefits and powerful antioxidant properties.
Science:
Centella Asiatica contains madecassoside, which is an active compound that serves as an anti-oxidant. Anti oxidants protect our skin against free radicals, which are caused by pollution and can weaken the skin's collagen production. Madecassoside is also known to be a powerful anti-inflammation and redness-reducing agent.
Centella Asiatica also contains asiaticoside, which promotes the skin's collagen production to keep the skin plump and youthful. Studies have even shown that asiaticoside has wound-healing properties.
Lastly, Centella Asiatica is rich in amino acids. Amino acids are part of our skin's natural moisturising factors (NMFs), which allow the skin to retain moisture and stay hydrated over time.
Summary:
Centella Asiatica is more than just a skin-soothing agent, it promotes healing, prevents inflammations and has anti-aging properties on all skin types. If you're looking to calm your skin and prevent breakouts, definitely think about adding Centella Asiatica into your skincare routine!
Want some in your skincare? Try these out:
Dermabell Basic
Dermabell Pro
Up next: Hint - Protection is key!