Centella Asiatica Extract
Centella Asiatica Extract (also called centella or gotu kola)
Plant extract that may help skin look calmer and smoother.
Centella is a tropical plant extract that may help skin look calmer based on research, though results take weeks to months.
In three sentences
Centella is a plant extract from Southeast Asia with two active compounds: asiaticoside and madecassoside. Studies report that a systematic review found centella extract may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These compounds may help skin look smoother over time.
What it does
Centella works like a soothing compress, helping calm skin and making it look smoother over time.
Centella asiatica extract comes from a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. The extract contains two main active compounds: asiaticoside and madecassoside.
Studies report that a systematic review found centella extract may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The extract is used in many Korean beauty products, often in toners and ampoules at concentrations that vary by brand. Results take weeks to months of regular use.
Typical concentration
Not disclosed in available sources; concentrations vary by product and formulation.
Who should be careful
People with sensitive skin or a known allergy to plants in the Apiaceae family should be careful. Studies report a case of contact dermatitis linked to centella extract. Patch test on your inner arm before full use.
Pairing
Pairs well with
- Glycerin (a humectant)
- Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)
- Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5)
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
- Beta-Glucan
- Honey
- Allantoin (a naturally derived soothing compound)
- Madecassoside
Found in
- Zero Pore Pad 2.0 (70ea)MEDICUBE
FAQ
- Can centella extract help reduce the appearance of wrinkles?
- Studies report that a systematic review found centella extract may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Results take weeks or months, not right away. Use it each day with sunscreen and a moisturizer.
- Is centella extract safe for sensitive skin?
- Centella may help calm skin for most people. But some have had contact rashes or allergic reactions to it. Patch test on your inner arm first, especially if you have plant allergies.
- What are the active ingredients in centella?
- Centella has two active compounds: asiaticoside and madecassoside. No published studies on people have tested these two compounds on their own.
Regulatory status
| Country | Authority | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Korea | MFDS | Allowed |
| United States | FDA | Allowed |
| Japan | MHLW | Allowed |
Status in one country says nothing about another.
Sources
- Studies report that a systematic review found centella extract may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.Efficacy and Safety of Centella Asiatica (L.) Urb. on Wrinkles: A Systematic Review of Published Data and Network Meta-Analysis. (PubMed, 2020, human)
- Studies report a case of contact dermatitis linked to centella extract.Contact dermatitis due to Centella asiatica. (PubMed, 2010, human)
- Studies report two cases of allergic contact dermatitis in which centella extract was one of the triggers.Allergic contact dermatitis from Centella asiatica extract and fragrance allergens: Report of two patients from Turkey. (PubMed, 2024, human)