Acne-fighting? Anti-ageing? Hydrating and healing? One ingredient can’t possibly achieve all these things! Unless that ingredient is Centella Asiatica of course!

If you’re a lover of Korean skin care and its trends, you probably know how prominent this moisturising skin saviour is. Known by a variety of names including cica, gotu kola, tiger grass and Asiatic Pennywort, this ancient medicinal plant has now had a newfound popularity in skin care.

What is Centella Asiatica?

Centella Asiatica is a perennial herb that grows in dark, damp areas primarily in Asia. For centuries, it has been well-documented in traditional chinese medicine as a healing superstar, and now, making a resurgence into modern skin care science.

Centella Asiatica is made of four main active ingredients: asiatic acid, madecassic acid, asiaticoside and madecassoside. All these actives have been studied for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, redness reducing, age and acne fighting capabilities.

Skin Benefits of Centella Asiatica:

1. HYDRATING, HEALING & SOOTHING

You may be wondering why many Centella Asiatica products contain the prefix ‘cica-’ well, it actually refers to its cicatrising (i.e. healing) capacity! This anti-inflammatory ingredient helps to soothe and heal compromised skin, especially the skin of burn victims, eczema and psoriasis sufferers. Moreover, if your skin is begging for some deep hydration, this swamp dwelling plant is a rich source of amino acids which help to maintain your skin’s hydration levels and overall smooth and supple complexion!

2. ACNE FIGHTING

Unlike numerous astringent acne treatments in the market, Centella Asiatica is instead a gentle antibacterial pimple preventer! One of its active compounds, Madecassic acid, not only suppresses acne inflammation, but also aids to stop the formation of acne (hypertrophic and keloid) scars! Therefore, whilst many acne products only help to reduce the breakout itself, this medicinal plant is a double whammy as it helps to inhibit pimples as well as heal the scars that is left behind!

3. ANTI AGEING

Let’s face it, skin ageing is inevitable but, that doesn’t mean we can’t age gracefully with the help of some Centella Asiatica! Rich in Vitamins A, C, B1, B2, carotene and niacin, this ancient herb fights premature aging by promoting collagen production, free radical fighting abilities and UV damage inhibitor!

Collagen Producing

As we age, we lose about 1% of collagen per year. By using products with Centella, you’ll be fortifying your skin’s underlying foundation which will assist in firming your skin. Hence, you can say good riddance to saggy skin and hello to a plump, youthful complexion! What’s more is that due to its collagen generating capacity, Centella Asiatica is also known to reduce cellulite and stretch marks!

High in antioxidants

Everyone always talks about antioxidants yet, not everyone knows exactly what antioxidants do. So, what the hell do they do? Simply put, antioxidants (like vitamins A, C and B), prevent free radical damage that can weaken collagen production and age the skin! Thus, this healing plant boasts an abundant level of antioxidants especially in their leaves! That is why you regularly see Centella Asiatica Leaf Water in ingredients lists!

Reduces Sun Spots

For those of you wanting a clear complexion free of sun damage, you’re in luck because the active compound, Madecassoside, helps to mitigate UV-induced hyperpigmentation!