Originating from Asia and Oceania, the centella asiatica is a plant with numerous benefits. An excellent antioxidant, it is found in many skin and even hair care products, in the form of powdered extract or vegetable oil.
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The properties of Centella asiatica for the skin?
Summary
- Centella asiatica, an overview
- Centella asiatica helps the skin combat oxidative stress
- The Centella asiatica stimulates collagen production
- The Centella asiatica alleviates skin marks
- Centella asiatica diminishes dark circles and revives dull complexions
- The Centella asiatica keeps the skin hydrated
- Sources
Published December 15, 2021,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
6 min read
Centella asiatica, an overview.
Originating from Asia and Oceania, the Centella asiatica is a creeping, semi-aquatic herbaceous plant from the Apiaceae family. It primarily grows in the marshy areas of tropical or subtropical countries. Today, it can be found in several Asian countries such as India and China, as well as in Africa, mainly in Madagascar and South Africa.
Also known as tiger grass, the medicinal properties of this plant have been recognized for over 2,000 years. Asian populations used it in poultices to heal wounds, and particularly skin manifestations of leprosy.
In cosmetics, the use of this plant in the form of powder or vegetable oil is relatively recent, beginning in the early 1970s. Theextract of Centella asiatica is a rich source of natural bioactive substances : saponins, triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, triterpenic steroids, amino acids, sugars... Today, it is possible to find this plant-based active ingredient in certain skincare products intended for dull skin or in prevention of skin aging, such as serums and creams.
It also formulates healing and restorative treatments to diminish the appearance of skin marks and/or stretch marks. Finally, it is found in eye contour creams, to reduce the appearance of dark circles and bags.
Centella asiatica helps the skin combat oxidative stress.
The phenolic compounds found in the leaves, roots, and petioles give the Centella asiatica powerful antioxidant properties that protect the skin from free radicals. These are generated by several factors such as UVA rays, pollution, cigarette smoke, excessive alcohol consumption, stress... They are molecules that are missing an electron. Highly reactive due to their instability, free radicals tend to react with the body's healthy molecules, damaging cells and tissues.
This process, known as "oxidative stress", accelerates skin aging and therefore the appearance of wrinkles and/or pigmentation spots. The phenolic compounds present in Centella asiatica neutralize the action of free radicals by donating an electron to make these molecules stable and less reactive. Thus, this plant-based active ingredient delays skin aging and protects the skin from external aggressions.
The Centella asiatica stimulates collagen production.
Skin aging results from several factors, particularly the decrease in collagen levels in the dermis, the deep layer of the skin. This leads to a loss of elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles. In skincare, the Centella asiatica is specifically used to boost collagen production and thus slow down the appearance of aging signs.
The Centella asiatica alleviates skin marks.
The Centella asiatica contains two molecules belonging to the saponoside family with recognized reparative and healing properties: the madecassoside and the asiaticoside. Thus, several studies have demonstrated the benefits of these active ingredients in reducing stretch marks, as well as scars and skin marks related, for example, to acne outbreaks or irritations.
Centella asiatica diminishes dark circles and revives dull complexions.
This botanical active ingredient helps to stimulate micro-blood circulation, reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness under the eyes and reviving the radiance of tired skin.
The Centella asiatica keeps the skin hydrated.
Several studies have demonstrated an increase in skin hydration levels following the daily application of a cosmetic formula based on Centella asiatica. Trans-epidermal water loss also decreased, indicating that the chemical substances present in this plant are humectants, meaning they retain water, like molecular sponges. The skin stays hydrated for longer, preventing the appearance of dehydration fine lines and feelings of tightness due to skin dryness.
Sources:
BOREL J. P. & others. Stimulation of collagen synthesis in venous and dermis fibroblast cultures by titrated extract from Centella asiatica.Connective Tissue Research (1990).
BRZEZINSKA M. & others. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology (2013).
PYTKOWSKA K. & al. Moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties of cosmetic formulations containing Centella asiatica extract. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2016).
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