In cosmetic care, Centella Asiatica is acclaimed for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, validated by numerous scientific studies. This herbaceous plant, nicknamed “Tiger Grass,” has been at the heart of traditional Chinese medicine, as well as Ayurvedic medicine, for thousands of years. Allergic reactions are rare and are most often caused by poor-quality Centella extract or an unsuitable formulation. Discover Nooance-Paris's advice for using Centella Asiatica safely and repairing your skin from the inside out.
From medicinal plant to cosmetic products: the benefits of Tiger Grass
Where does Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) come from and why is it so effective?
It has been healing for over 2,000 years! Centella Asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, is a semi-aquatic creeping plant that grows in the marshy soils of Asia (China, India), Oceania, and parts of Africa.
Originally used in Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine, this natural ingredient is now found almost everywhere: facial care, shampoos, hair oil, skin creams, toothpaste and even in the form of an infusion or food supplement.
The secret to its effectiveness is its large number of active molecules, including: asiaticosides, madecassoside and asiatic acid. According to a recent study , these bioactive compounds have powerful anti-inflammatory, healing, antioxidant and even antibacterial properties. They work in particular by improving blood circulation, stimulating collagen production, strengthening the skin barrier and reducing the degradation of the skin's support fibers (such as elastin).
Clinically proven benefits for the skin
Centella Asiatica is a plant with multiple health benefits: activation of blood circulation, better digestion, improvement of memory and reduction of stress and anxiety. But its healing, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties make it a highly prized active ingredient in beauty and cosmetics today. Discover all the benefits of Centella Asiatica for the skin .
Restorative and healing action
Centella Asiatica is particularly effective in promoting skin tissue regeneration. The triterpene extracts it contains stimulate the production of type I collagen, essential for skin repair.
Several studies have shown that topical application of Centella Asiatica extract accelerates wound healing and visibly reduces acne scars, post-inflammatory marks and micro-lesions linked to external aggressions.
Anti-inflammatory and soothing power
Centella Asiatica is a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps reduce redness and prevent skin reactions, especially on sensitive or reactive skin.
An in vivo study tested topical cosmetic preparations with 5% Centella asiatica extract. The results showed a significant increase in skin hydration and anti-inflammatory action. No adverse skin reactions were observed, which validates the use of Centella Asiatica in moisturizing and soothing cosmetic formulas.
Anti-aging and firming effect
Thanks to its antioxidant properties, Centella Asiatica helps fight free radicals responsible for skin aging. It stimulates collagen synthesis, which prevents loss of firmness and helps maintain toned and smooth skin.
It is a very popular ingredient in anti-wrinkle treatments in Asia, in K-Beauty, where it appears under the name “Cica”: Tiger Grass reduces the signs of aging and improves skin elasticity.
Acne and skin blemishes
By reducing inflammation, Centella is an ally for acne-prone skin. It offers an antibacterial action that helps calm spots without damaging the skin.
It also acts on acne marks, promoting more even, clearer skin that is less prone to inflammatory relapses.
Dangers and contraindications: analysis of Centella Asiatica
Centella extract is generally recognized for its good skin tolerance, on all skin types. However, adverse effects have already been observed, often isolated cases of contact allergy. Here's what scientific studies say about its safety of use.
Allergic reactions
Redness, itching, or eczema-like rashes: These side effects mainly affect users with allergies. This is a reaction to madecassoside, an extract from Centella Asiatica.
Bad wording
Aside from any known allergies, improper use of the product or an overly concentrated formula can also cause mild skin reactions.
A clinical study confirmed that using a cream containing 5% Centella Asiatica did not cause irritation or skin reactions, while improving skin quality. This data reinforces the idea that Gotu Kola is safe for skin when properly formulated.
How to safely incorporate Centella Asiatica into your beauty routine?
Ideal concentration in cosmetics
In cosmetic care, there are different forms of Centella Asiatica to repair and soothe sensitive skin . You might think that the higher the concentration, the more effective the facial treatment. But in reality, it all depends on your skin's needs.
In creams or serums, Centella extract is often present between 2 and 5%: this is an ideal concentration to soothe, hydrate and strengthen the skin on a daily basis.
But the most effective formulas often contain molecules isolated from the plant, such as madecassoside or asiaticoside, known for their targeted action on skin repair, healing, and even redness. These active ingredients are very powerful, and only 0.1 to 1% are needed for them to be truly effective.
Association with other assets
For an effective anti-aging duo, without damaging the skin, choose combinations of powerful active ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid or retinol (and retinoids).
The Retinol and Centella Asiatica duo is at the heart of the innovative formula of our 1% Retinol Anti-Aging Night Cream . Centella repairs the skin barrier and hydrates the skin, allowing retinol to act on the visible signs of aging (wrinkles, fine lines, spots) without irritating the skin. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and soothing action, Centella reduces the feelings of discomfort linked to the use of retinol.
Nooance-Paris Multi-Active Hyaluronic Acid Serum: the ally of sensitive and reactive skin
At Nooance-Paris, we have selected a highly purified Centella Asiatica, combined with anti-aging and soothing plant-based active ingredients, for maximum effectiveness while respecting skin balance. Used as a daytime treatment, the Multi-Active Hydrating Serum is a targeted concentrated serum that visibly soothes and repairs the skin thanks to the combination of a 1% concentrated botanical extract of Centella Asiatica and powerful hydrating active ingredients: hyaluronic acid, anti-aging peptides and ceramides.
Dangers of the Gotu Kola Plant: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Centella Asiatica suitable for all skin types?
Yes, Centella Asiatica is a generally well-tolerated active ingredient, suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive. It is particularly appreciated for its soothing and restorative properties, which make it an ideal ally in cases of redness, irritation, dryness, or skin fragility. It is also suitable for oily or acne-prone skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
Is Centella Asiatica comedogenic?
There is no link between the use of Centella Asiatica and the appearance of blemishes. It does not clog pores or promote breakouts. On the contrary, it helps reduce inflammation, calm redness, and promote tissue repair, making it an excellent choice for acne-prone skin.
How long does it take to see results on redness or scars?
- For temporary redness or mild irritation, the first calming effects can be visible within a few days to a week: the skin appears more soothed, less heated, more comfortable.
- For acne scars, marks, or persistent redness, it typically takes 3 to 6 weeks of daily use to see noticeable improvement. Centella supports deep tissue regeneration, which naturally takes a little longer.
Can you use Cica treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Yes, for topical (cosmetic) use, Centella Asiatica is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It poses no known risks when applied to the skin as a cream, serum, or lotion.
On the other hand, taking Centella-based food supplements should be avoided without medical advice, because its oral effects are less well documented.
Should Centella be avoided in summer or when exposed to the sun?
No, Centella is not a photosensitizing active ingredient. It is perfectly safe to use as a daytime skincare product in the summer, particularly to soothe skin after intense sun exposure. Be sure to apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from oxidative stress caused by UV rays.
In summary: Centella Asiatica at Nooance, a safe and powerful active ingredient
At Nooance, we chose Centella Asiatica for its unique soothing properties that adapt to all skin types. This plant-based active ingredient with multiple benefits has become a trusted cosmetic ingredient, capable of deeply repairing skin while respecting its sensitivity.
Integrated into demanding and perfectly dosed formulas, it offers visible results without being aggressive: less redness, reduction of signs of aging and strengthening of the skin barrier.
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