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Centella Asiatica Benefits for Sensitive Skin

Feb 28, 2025

If you have redness-prone, sensitive skin, you’re going to want to take note of the following two words: Centella asiatica. Never heard of it? No worries. We’re here to give you the lowdown on this noteworthy skin care ingredient.

What is Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica)?
Also referred to as gotu kola, Indian pennywort and, more commonly, cica, Centella asiatica is a leafy green herb that has served as a staple in both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. The herbaceous plant is also known as tiger grass, as, in Asia, it is known to be a plant that tigers roll in when injured to help soothe their wounds. (Clearly, the tigers were on to something.) Today, Centella asiatica has continued to grow in popularity, especially in skin care products, particularly in the K-Beauty realm.

How does Centella asiatica help skin?
Centella asiatica (cica) has quite a lengthy list of benefits. It is known to be rich in fatty acids and antioxidants that help hydrate and soothe skin and relieve redness associated with dryness. A 2016 study* found that cosmetic formulations containing Centella asiatica extract provided moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, both helpful when dealing with sensitive skin concerns.

Over the years, many studies** have also provided evidence of its ability to promote wound healing due to its microbial properties. The four active compounds in Centella asiatica—asiaticoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid and madecassoside—are also said to help stimulate the production of collagen†: a protein that gives skin structure, strength and elasticity.

How can you incorporate Centella asiatica into your routine?
Avon’s new Beyond Glow Centella Collection will help you get the relief you need. Our latest collection features three new formulations powered by this skin-soothing plant. For an instant dose of hydration, try the Beyond Glow Centella Cooling Toner, which refreshes and moisturizes irritated skin caused by dryness in seconds— 96%‡ of users said their skin felt instantly cooled after application. If redness is a concern, you’ll love the Beyond Glow Centella Redness Relief Serum with panthenol and glycerin, which helps relieve the look of redness caused by dryness in one use§. And finally, made with a titrated extract of Centella asiatica, the Beyond Glow Centella Soothing Cream moisturizes and reduces the look of redness caused by dryness. This soft, non-sticky cream is non-comedogenic, so you don’t have to worry about it potentially clogging your pores, making it suitable for daily use.

If you’re struggling with redness-prone and dry skin, (tiger-approved) Centella asiatica may just be what your skin care routine is missing. Start reaping the benefits of this wondrous, soothing herb.