Centella Asiatica is a creeping herb native to Asia, Africa and Australia, often referred to as “cica” or “tiger grass”. In skincare, the active ingredient is typically the leaf and stem extract (INCI: Centella Asiatica Extract) rich in pentacyclic triterpenes such as asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid — all known for their skin-soothing, collagen-stimulating and barrier-repairing effects.
This botanical extract is valued not only for its efficacy but also for its clean-beauty appeal: plant-derived, gentle, and suitable for sensitive skin types.
Key Benefits & Functional Profile
1. Soothing & anti-inflammatory action
Centella Asiatica extract is highly regarded for calming redness, irritation and reactive skin. Its triterpenes reduce inflammatory responses and help soothe sensitivity — making it a favourite in formulations for acne-prone, rosacea-or eczema-afflicted skin.
2. Skin barrier support & hydration
Studies show that topical formulations containing 2.5 %–5 % Centella Asiatica extract reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improved the skin’s barrier function. For example, an emulsion with 5 % extract showed about 18 % decrease in TEWL after four weeks. By improving barrier integrity and moisture retention, it helps skin feel calmer, stronger and more resilient.
3. Collagen stimulation & anti-aging effect
The active compounds in Centella Asiatica promote fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis — which means it can support elasticity, reduce fine lines and help skin appear firmer and healthier.
4. Wound healing & regeneration
Traditionally used in medicine for wound repair, Centella Asiatica’s bioactives enhance tissue repair, improve tensile strength of healing skin, and help with micro-damage from environmental or lifestyle stressors.
5. Versatile & label-friendly
Because it is plant-derived, gentle and multifunctional, Centella Asiatica extract enjoys strong marketing appeal (e.g., “skin-soothing”, “barrier-strengthening”, “ideal for sensitive skin”) and fits well into clean, vegan or gentle skincare narratives.
Formulation Notes & Typical Use
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Usage levels: Commonly used in serums, essences, moisturisers and leave-on products at concentrations in the range of 1 % to 5 % depending on formulation type, active claims and vehicle.
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Compatibility: Works well alongside humectants (like glycerin or hyaluronic acid), antioxidants (vitamin C, E), ceramides and soothing botanicals — particularly beneficial when paired with more potent actives (e.g., retinoids) to offset irritation.
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Stability & vehicle: Because of its delicate active compounds, formulators must consider preservative systems, pH stability and packaging that protects from excessive heat-light exposure.
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Texture & feel: Extracts are typically water-based or hydroalcoholic; they integrate seamlessly into lightweight gels, lotions, serums and rich creams — offering a comfortable finish without heavy occlusion.
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Claims & labelling: On product packaging you’ll frequently see: “Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica)”, “Triterpene-rich Centella”, “Tiger Grass extract”, plus claims such as “Soothes redness”, “Strengthens skin barrier”, “Ideal for sensitive skin”, “Gentle & calming”.
Sustainability & Sourcing
Centella Asiatica benefits from being a widely used botanical with a relatively low environmental footprint when responsibly sourced. Brands looking to emphasise sustainability may highlight: “sustainably farmed”, “traceable source”, “cold-extracted”, or “cica-leaf extract from tropical wetlands”. Because of its popularity, ensuring ethically-sourced, biodiversity-respecting cultivation is key. Additionally, its compatibility with sensitive skin means fewer harsh actives are required in the finished product, supporting gentler formulation philosophies.
How to Incorporate Into a Routine
If you’re using a product with Centella Asiatica extract, apply it at the serum or cream step after cleansing and toning. Because of its soothing and barrier-supportive actions, it’s especially beneficial at night or after stronger treatments (like exfoliants, acids, retinoids) to calm and restore the skin. Pair with broad-spectrum SPF during the day for optimal skin-health support.
Properties
Anti-aging, Moisturizing, Wound healing, Stimulation of collagen biosynthesis
INCI Name
Centella asiatica Leaf Extract
