Centella Asiatica

What is centella asiatica and what does it do?

Centella asiatica is a herb used in traditional medicine across Asia. Its main active compounds are triterpenoids, including asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. In laboratory studies these support fibroblast activity and collagen production, reduce inflammatory signalling and have antioxidant effects. In skincare, centella extracts are used mainly to soothe redness and irritation, support recovery of a stressed barrier, and as a calming partner to stronger actives such as retinoids or acids. It is also studied in wound and scar care. It is a supportive ingredient rather than a corrective one for pigmentation or ageing. [1]

What does the evidence show?

Most of the evidence comes from laboratory and animal studies, with a smaller number of human trials in wound healing and scar management. A systematic review of wound-healing studies reported positive effects, while noting variable quality. Cosmetic studies on soothing and barrier support are generally small and often manufacturer-funded. Its role is reasonable as a calming ingredient, but strong claims for reversing ageing are not supported.

Who should avoid centella asiatica?

Centella is generally well tolerated, but allergic contact dermatitis has been reported, so anyone with a known plant extract allergy should patch test first. People with eczema should introduce it cautiously, as fragrance or other ingredients in the same product may irritate. Stop if itching, redness or a rash develops.

Is centella asiatica available in Singapore?

Centella asiatica extracts are common cosmetic ingredients in Singapore, especially in Korean-formulated skincare sold as cica products. Cosmetic products are notified to the Health Sciences Authority rather than individually approved, so extract quality and concentration vary between brands. Oral herbal products containing centella are a separate category.

If a dark patch, breakout or irritation is not responding to what you are using, the next step is a diagnosis rather than another product. See the Skin A–Z library for related ingredients.