Centella Asiatica in Korean Skincare
Centella asiatica (cica) soothes inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and aids wound healing. Its key active compounds — madecassoside, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid — make it one of the most effective botanical ingredients for sensitive, reactive, and post-breakout skin in Korean skincare.
This guide explains what Centella asiatica is, what its active components are, what it may support in a daily skincare routine, and which skin types it is best suited to.
General Information Only. This page provides educational skincare information and is not medical advice. If you have persistent acne, eczema, rosacea, allergies, skin irritation, pigmentation changes or any medical skin condition, please consult a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional before changing your skincare routine. Individual results vary. Always patch test new products.
What is Centella asiatica?
Centella asiatica (also known as Gotu kola or Asiatic pennywort) is a small herbaceous plant native to wetland environments across Asia, including Korea, China, India, Sri Lanka and parts of Africa. It has been used in traditional Ayurvedic, Chinese and Korean herbal medicine for centuries.
In Korean traditional medicine (hanbang), Centella was known for its soothing applications. In modern Korean cosmetic science, the plant extract and its specific active compounds have been studied and incorporated into a wide range of skincare formulations.
In INCI listings, Centella asiatica appears as Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, or through its isolated active compounds listed individually (madecassoside, asiaticoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid).
Active components
The primary active constituents of Centella asiatica are a group of triterpenoid compounds:
Madecassoside
A triterpenoid glycoside. One of the most studied compounds in Centella for its potential skin-soothing properties. Often isolated and used as a standalone ingredient in Korean formulations.
Asiaticoside
Another key triterpenoid glycoside. Works alongside madecassoside in supporting skin calming and barrier function.
Asiatic Acid
The aglycone form of asiaticoside. Found in whole plant extracts and also used in isolated form.
Madecassic Acid
The aglycone form of madecassoside. Contributes to the overall activity of Centella in skincare formulations.
What Centella asiatica may support
Reducing visible redness
Centella is widely used in formulations targeting redness-prone and reactive skin. Its triterpenoid compounds are associated with a calming effect on skin that appears red or irritated.
Calming skin irritation
Many people with sensitised or post-procedure skin find Centella-based products soothing. It is a common ingredient in "recovery" skincare lines and after-sun products.
Supporting the skin barrier
Centella is often used in barrier-support formulations alongside ceramides and niacinamide. It may help maintain the integrity of the skin's protective outer layer.
Skin comfort in reactive conditions
Commonly recommended by Korean skincare enthusiasts as a gentle daily ingredient for those whose skin reacts easily to environmental changes, pollution or other skincare products.
Best suited skin types
Sensitive skin
Redness-prone skin
Acne-prone skin
Post-procedure skin
Reactive skin
Most skin types
Use with care
While Centella asiatica is generally well-tolerated, any individual can have a reaction to any ingredient. Those with known allergies to plants in the Apiaceae (carrot/parsley) family should approach Centella with caution, as it belongs to the same family. Always patch test before using any new product containing Centella asiatica extract.
Korean product types containing Centella
Ingredient combinations that work well
Ceramides
Both support the skin barrier. Excellent combination for sensitive or compromised skin.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide adds brightening and barrier support; compatible and widely combined in Korean products.
Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata)
Two calming botanicals often combined in Korean soothing products. Complementary effect.
Hyaluronic Acid
Adds deep hydration alongside Centella's soothing properties. Commonly co-formulated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research references
- Bylka W et al. Centella asiatica in cosmetology. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2013;30(1):46–49.
- Shukla A et al. In vitro and in vivo wound healing activity of asiaticoside isolated from Centella asiatica. J Ethnopharmacol. 1999.
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