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For centuries, this plant has helped people maintain health and achieve longevity, saved the skin from ailments and healed damage. In modern cosmetics, Centella asiatica plays the role of one of the most effective anti-aging ingredients that can smooth out even deep wrinkles.
What’s this
Centella Asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, is a creeping plant native to the humid climates of Southeast Asia and Madagascar. It looks like an ordinary weed, but in fact it is one of the most famous medicinal plants, which has been used in Chinese medicine and Ayurveda for more than a millennium. For the ability to improve memory, stimulate brain activity and normalize the functioning of the nervous system, centella is called the herb of longevity and eternal youth.
The healing properties of centella were “discovered” by tigers
Another name – “tiger grass” – appeared thanks to the Bengal tigers. These animals have been observed to heal wounds by rolling around in centella thickets. So they discovered another amazing property of Gotu Kola – to heal and restore the skin after damage.
Useful Properties
Centella extract is deservedly considered a unique component that has a versatile beneficial effect on the skin. It has a powerful regenerating effect, both at the surface and at the deep levels. Speaking more specifically about the healing properties of Centella Asiatica, they can be defined as:
wound healing;
anti-inflammatory;
regenerating;
soothing;
vascular strengthening;
lymphatic drainage;
moisturizing.
Features of composition
Centella asiatica is used in home and professional care products.
The plant contains a variety of active substances, thanks to which it is central to cosmetic formulas for various purposes – from soothing creams to anti-cellulite gels. Centella asiatica has also been used for many years in anti-aging mesotherapy cocktails. Let’s list its main components.
Triterpenoids and saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic and madecassic acids)
promote the synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid;
suppress inflammatory processes;
provide an antioxidant effect;
protect blood vessels and veins, contribute to the restoration of small capillaries;
have anti-cellulite action.
Phytosterols, amino acids and fatty acids
restore the barrier functions of the skin;
reduce skin sensitivity;
retain moisture in the epidermis.
Application in cosmetics
Centella asiatica in cosmetics and cosmetology is used in different forms, depending on the purpose of the product.
Centella Asiatica Extract (Centella Asiatica Extract)
Included in soothing creams and balms for dry, dehydrated, sensitive and damaged skin with peeling.
Madecassoside (Madecassoside)
The active molecule, isolated from Centella Asiatica, is the main ingredient in anti-aging formulas. It has a proven ability to increase the production of collagen types I and III, thus increasing the elasticity of the skin and, as a result, smoothing wrinkles. In this capacity, it is especially effective in combination with vitamin C. Like other forms of Centella Asiatica, it has regenerative properties and soothes the skin.
Asiatic acid (asiatic acid) and madecassic acid (madecassic acid), asiaticosides (asiaticoside)
You can find them in the formulas of restorative agents for various purposes.
You can read more about ingredients, manufacturing processes, quality and safety requirements here.
Overview of funds with centella
Soothing and restorative remedies
Kiehl’s Centella Sensitive Skin Cleanser
Restores the protective barrier of dry, sensitive, damaged skin, instantly relieves discomfort. Suitable for the skin around the eyes.
Hydra Zen Instant Soothing Cream-Gel for All Skin Types, Lancôme
Quickly relieves irritation and flaking, strengthens resistance to stress. Increases skin immunity due to long-term and deep hydration. Formulated with French Rose, Chinese Peony, Moringa Pancake, Centella Asiatica, Lipidure™ Microbeads, Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides.
Anti-aging products
Anti-aging care Redermic C, La Roche-Posay
Increases turgor, gives the skin radiance, corrects deep wrinkles, soothes. Contains a high concentration of vitamin C and 95% pure madecassoside, which stimulates collagen synthesis and protects the fibers of the dermis.
Re-Plasty Age Recovery Day, Helena Rubinstein
Restores, moisturizes and at the same time protects the skin from free radicals. The special texture forms a cosmetic mesh that creates the effect of firm, radiant skin.
You can read more about ingredients, production processes, quality and safety requirements here!