The Major Benefits of Centella Asiatica for Skin

Perhaps more commonly known in the supplement world as ‘Gotu Kola,’ this powerhouse ingredient has become a K-beauty ingredient staple after decades of being used as a memory aid in dietary supplements from brands like Natural Factors, AOR, and NOW. 

It has now caught on in the cosmetics industry as an ingredient with the potential to majorly benefit skin health, but what exactly are the benefits of Centella Asiatica for skin? We can assure you that it’s not all help, as actual, authentic, human testimonials continually reaffirm the value of this skincare ingredient for problematic skin. 

So if you have troublesome skin and can’t seem to find a solution to irritated skin or acne that’s also wholly natural, Centella might be the trendy K-beauty ingredient for you. Let’s dive into the details of this Korean beauty staple. 

What Is Centella Asiatica?

Centella Asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, is a perennial plant native to Asia. It is widely used medicinally in Ayurvedic medicine, traditional African medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine. It is used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and scleroderma, and is more commonly used to treat wounds such as cuts and burns. Centella can be beneficial both internally and externally.

What are the Skin Benefits of Centella Asiatica?

Many Reddit users are singing the praises of Centella — and it’s easy to reaffirm that with a quick Google search; people commenting that it’s great for irritated skin or dermatitis, and even reference specific products we carry, like the Skin1004 ampoule. 

But what about ‘how?’ How does Centella help to soothe inflammation, fight acne, and moisturize all in one? Let’s jump into a little ‘top 8’ list of the major Centella Asiatica benefits, along with the antioxidants/polyphenols in Centella that make it a superstar ingredient. 

1. Anti-Aging Nutrients

Centella has the potential to reduce skin breakdown by inhibiting the activity of some of the enzymes that can normally degrade the skin. Studies in skin cells showed that centella, along with glycolic acid and vitamins A, E, and C, stimulated the cells to make collagen. 

Since decreases in the amount of collagen in the skin are central to skin aging, these two effects suggest that Centella may work as an anti-aging agent by increasing the amount of collagen in the skin. Centella may also work as an effective anti-aging ingredient by protecting DNA from ultraviolet light-induced damage and reducing inflammation.

2. Skin Hydration

Age, internal health conditions and exposure to the elements deplete and damage the skin barrier. This leads to poor moisture retention and dry, dehydrated skin. 

Bioactive ingredients in Centella, such as triterpenoid saponins, triterpenic steroids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds and essential amino acids, help repair the skin barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss. With increased moisture content in the stratum corneum, your skin appears plump, hydrated and healthy.

3. Skin Cleansing

Centella has amazing detoxifying properties according to Ayurvedic science. It cleanses your skin and removes harmful, toxic buildup.

4. Tighten Loose Skin

Skin sagging is a natural process that occurs with age. Phytochemicals, especially triterpenoid saponins and polyacetylenes in Centella, are known to promote collagen production, prevent collagen breakdown and stimulate proliferation of fibroblasts. This gives the skin structural support and improves its elasticity.

5. Wound Healing

Centella can work wonders on wounds and burns. Its antiseptic properties prevent further infection, and its anti-inflammatory abilities reduce swelling around the wound site. 

Centella calms the skin and improves blood supply to the wound for quick healing. It improves collagen production and fibroblast proliferation, thus accelerating re-epithelialization and wound contraction. This increases the tensile strength of the healing area and prevents wound breakdown.

6. Stretch Marks

Stress, depression and anxiety can take a serious toll on your skin health. Chronic stress is often related to skin aging and the appearance of stretch marks on the face. Centella is hailed for its calming, antidepressant and anti-aging properties. 

Both consumption and topical application of the herb can help you fight the various negative effects of stress on your skin.

7. Acne

Centella has been used since ancient times to cure a variety of skin diseases, including acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties treat inflamed acne lesions. 

Its antibacterial and antioxidant properties curb bacterial proliferation in your pores and initiate quick wound healing. 

Centella also prevents the formation of acne scars and marks. In skincare formulas, Centella is renowned for its numerous skin benefits, most notably regenerative effects, making it ideal for almost all skin types and concerns. It is a rich source of pentacyclic triterpenoids, a group of phytochemicals known for their powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, and wound healing properties. 

Is it Safe for People with Rosacea? 

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that predominantly affects the face. 

It is characterized by visible blood vessels, redness, and sometimes acne-like bumps. This condition can be triggered by various factors, including heat, sunlight, spicy foods, and stress.

While it can certainly prove useful for people with rosacea, some do have negative skin reactions, so we always recommend speaking with a dermatologist or physician prior to use if you have such conditions, such as rosacea, that have been giving you a hard time. 

Unfortunately, there is rarely a “silver bullet,” even with natural products. 

8. Eczema and Psoriasis

Triterpenes such as asiaticoside and madecassoside present in Centella are suspected to be responsible for its medicinal properties. 

Centella’s ability to reduce inflammation by inhibiting 

proinflammatory conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) and psoriasis. Apart from inflammation, centella also reduces pruritus (itching) and erythema-like (redness of the skin) symptoms.

Centella Can Ultimately Help Heal Acne, Scars and Stretch Marks

Cellulite, scars and stretch marks on the skin can be aesthetically displeasing. Centella’s ability to stimulate new collagen synthesis and enhance blood circulation helps in the removal of cellulite, which is fat cells deposited under the skin.

The various therapeutic benefits of Centella Asiatica have been recognized by both traditional and Western medicine. The above-mentioned skin disorders and health concerns can be considered through the topical application of Centella Asiatica.