One common ingredient we are seeing on Korean skincare products is Centella Asiatica. I don’t know about you but I have really no idea on what Centella Asiatica is. All I know is that all products with Centella Asiatica have somewhat a soothing effect.
So I did my research.
Centella Asiatica is an ancient healing plant that’s been long enjoyed in traditional medicine in China, Japan, India, Australia, and the U.S. It has, in fact, many other names – gotu kola, Indian pennywort, brahmi, and spade leaf. It has been used to speed wound healing, calm inflammation, stimulate cell growth, promote collagen production, and improve blood circulation.
Wow! Is this everything we need in a skin care product?
What are the benefits of Centella Asiatica as a skin care ingredient?
People often say that what’s good in your body is good for your skin. This is the case for centella as well. As a skin care ingredient, centella is proven to have the following benefits:
Healing
Centella Asiatica contains “Madecassoside”, an antioxidant, that is an active compound of centella. The increased antioxidant activity at the site of wound strengthens the skin and increases blood circulation, hence, promotes healing.
Soothing
Acne, as we all know, is an inflammatory condition. Hence, acne-prone gals and guys can really benefit from centella. With its anti-inflammatory properties, the skin will be soothed and healed.
Anti-aging
Centella, as mentioned previously, promotes collagen production. This gives its anti-aging properties. It also prevents free radical damage and reduces sunspots. The culprit: Madecassoside.
What Centella Asiatica products are recommended?
As centella is found in most skincare ingredients, the choice is endless. You just have to choose what type is it that you want – serum, cream, cleanser, ampoule, sunscreen.. I’m sure and I bet there is!
But yeah, here’s our favorite so far:
Cosrx’s Centella Blemish Cream certainly kept it’s ingredients to a minimum by replacing water content with centella extract. Talk about concentration! I have tried this as an overall face moisturizer. But, no, never again. It leaves a white cast and has thick consistency so better use this at night as a spot treatment.
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica Ampoule
Similar to Cosrx Centella Blemish Cream, Skin1004’s ampoule contains 100% Centella Asiatica extract that will surely soothe that skin of yours.
Purito Centella Green Level Buffet Serum
This serum contains just 49% of Centella extract. On another note, it contains niacinamide, panthenol, and adenosine to help improve skin balance, wrinkles, and hydration. Still a win-win!
Find out what centella product is best for you! Good luck!
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