Benefits of Centella Asiatica for the Face, the Secret to Healthy and Glowing Skin
YOGYAKARTA - Centella Asiatica has recently become increasingly popular in the world of skincare. Many facial care products rely on this natural ingredient because it is suitable for various skin types. This plant has been an important part of Ayurvedic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Then, what exactly makes Centella Asiatica so popular in skincare products? Reported from the Cleveland Clinic, the following will discuss the various benefits of Centella Asiatica for the face and its side effects.
What is Centella Asiatica?Centella Asiatica is an herbal plant that is widely found in tropical areas such as Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands. This plant has small leaves shaped like a lotus and is often referred to as "tiger grass", because tigers often roll over it to heal wounds.
In the world of traditional medicine, Centella Asiatica is known as a plant with many properties. In addition to being consumed, this plant is also used to help heal various health problems and improve skin health. No wonder this plant is also nicknamed the "herb of longevity" or long-life plant.
In the modern world of skincare, Centella Asiatica contains four main active compounds, namely asiaticoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid, and madecassoside. These four ingredients play an important role in maintaining skin health. This is what makes Centella Asiatica so sought after in various facial care products.
4 Benefits of Centella Asiatica for the FaceAlthough it has been empirically proven from thousands of years of experience, there have not been many studies supporting the benefits of Centella Asiatica for the skin. Here are some of the benefits of Centella Asiatica for the face, which are presented by assistant doctor of dermatology specialist, Samantha Stein, PA-C.
Moisturizes and maintains skin barrierCentella Asiatica is widely used in facial care products because of its extraordinary ability to maintain skin moisture. This ingredient helps strengthen the skin barrier so that the skin does not easily lose moisture.
"Centella helps the skin barrier retain moisture while reducing redness and inflammation," says Stein.
This effect is very noticeable on dry or sensitive skin. In fact, regular use can make the skin feel more comfortable in various weather conditions.
Helps healing burns and ordinary woundsStein said that Centella Asiatica is rich in antioxidants. This content plays a role in fighting free radicals that can damage skin cells. That way, the skin regeneration process is more optimal.
"We need antioxidants to fight small molecules of free radicals that damage important components of our body's defense system, as well as damage DNA and the skin's protective layer," he explained.
He added that this material can help heal burns and ordinary wounds if used with other products.
"Centella increases antioxidant levels to help fight free radicals. So, if used with other products such as petrolatum jelly, this ingredient can help heal burns and ordinary wounds," he explained.
Reduce inflammation on the skinInflammation is a common cause of various skin problems such as acne and eczema. Centella Asiatica has anti-inflammatory properties that help calm the skin.
"Acne is inflammatory. Eczema is also inflammatory. Many skin problems are related to inflammation. The use of active ingredients such as Centella can help relieve inflammation when used in conjunction with other medications or over-the-counter skin care products," explained Stein.
Helps slow down the signs of agingCentella Asiatica also has the potential to help slow down signs of aging. Its active content is known to stimulate the production of collagen in the skin. In addition, Centella Asiatica contains phytochemicals that are important for reducing oxidative stress in skin cells.
Samantha Stein added, "Centella can make the skin look more hydrated, supple, and healthy." Skin that is more hydrated usually looks fresher and younger.
Centella Asiatica Risks and Side EffectsCentella Asiatica is widely used in skin care products because it is considered safe for most people. Stein said, "The side effects are very minimal, because this ingredient helps hydrate the skin and increase the strength and ability to retain moisture in the skin barrier."
However, this does not mean that this ingredient is suitable for everyone. Although it is rare, allergic reactions to Centella Asiatica may still occur, with the most common symptoms being a burning sensation or contact dermatitis. Therefore, as with other skin care products, it is recommended to do a trial on the inner skin area of the arm and wait at least 24 hours to ensure there is no negative reaction.
Stein also emphasized, "Centella Asiatica is very versatile. This material is used for various purposes. However, the condition of everyone's skin is very different and unique. So, I always recommend consulting a medical professional or health expert first."
Consultation with a dermatologist is highly recommended, especially for those who:
Under the age of 18, Pregnant or breastfeeding, Have a history of liver disorders such as hepatitis, Or have a history of skin cancer.Excessive use, especially if taken orally or injected, can also cause side effects. Some symptoms that may appear are headaches, digestive disorders, drowsiness, dizziness, to the risk of miscarriage.
So much for discussing the benefits of Centella Asiatica for the face and its side effects. Centella Asiatica does offer a variety of interesting benefits for facial skin health. However, like other skincare ingredients, the results can be different for everyone. Therefore, it is important to understand your skin condition before using it regularly.
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