If you are big into Korean skin care (aka K-beauty) then you must have heard about this next ingredient Centella Asiatica. Its one of the latest rage in K-beauty. Its know by a lot of other names such as Asiatic Pennywort, Tiger Grass, Brahmi and Gotu Kola. This plant is highly praised for its hydrating skin saving abilities. It is also rich in amino acids and numerous potent phytochemicals which helps reduce inflammation, increase collagen, improve circulation and increase new cell renewal.
Centella Asiatica is included in countless moisturizers from various South Korean Brands, the most popular ones being from Cosrx. They are labelled as 'Cica Creams', the word Cica is short for Centella Asiatica.
What is Centella Asiatica?
Centella Asiatica is a perennial herb that grows mainly in Asia. For years it's been used for it culinary and medicinal use but in the recent years it has been gaining popularity as a skin care ingredient.
Cica Creams became one of the most popular products to use in K-beauty rituals because of their alleged soothing benefits. It contains active compounds and antioxidant properties that are really beneficial for your skin...
It Soothes and Repairs your skin...
If you have sensitive skin or if you suffer from redness, irritation or dehydration, then this is the product for your skin. First of all the astringent properties of Tannis help fight inflammation by controlling the pain and reducing the swelling, redness and itching. Secondly its ability to heal sensitive skin makes it an ideal choice for this skin type. This is made possible to Asiaticosides and Madecassoside which are compounds found in this ingredient that help speed up the healing process.
It has Anti-Ageing properties...
Centella Asiatica contains Flavonoids, which are similar to what is found in green tea. These antioxidants help to reduce free radical damages caused by pollution and UV rays which cause premature ageing. Plus it helps boost the production of type I & II collagen which helps in improving the tightness and firmness of the skin making it more younger looking.
It keeps your skin Hydrated...
Centella Asiatica is very effective in retaining the skin's moisture, giving your skin a more hydrated look over time. It also prevents elastin and hyaluronic acid from breaking down and improves the skin's barrier function to increase hydration deep within the skin.
It reduces Cellulite...
Cellulite is caused by weak connective tissue and Centella Asiatica can helps strengthen these tissues to prevent the appearance of dimpling. Another cause of cellulite is poor circulation- Centella also helps to improve your blood circulation and strengthen the blood vessels to give you smoother and firmer looking skin.
Centella Asiatic has numerous benefits for just one plant but it is the best natural ingredient that can improve your skin. While there are many benefits of natural ingredients and there are also some great synthetic ingredients, however Centella Asiatica is one of those ingredients whose claims are backed by strong research.
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II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II