What is Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract?
Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract, also known as Gotu Kola, is derived from the leaf cells of the Centella Asiatica plant, a member of the Mackinlayaceae family. This plant is native to the wetlands of Asia and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its healing properties. The extract is rich in triterpenoids, compounds known for their antioxidant and skin-protecting abilities.
The use of Centella Asiatica in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its beneficial properties. It is obtained through a process of cell culture, where the leaf cells of the plant are grown under controlled conditions. This allows for the production of a pure, concentrated extract that is free from any environmental pollutants.
While there are other plant extracts used in cosmetics for their antioxidant properties, such as green tea or grape seed extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract stands out due to its unique composition. The triterpenoids found in this extract not only act as antioxidants but also have skin-protecting properties, making it a multifunctional ingredient.
Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract is typically used in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers and serums. Its antioxidant and skin-protecting properties make it a valuable addition to these products, helping to protect the skin from environmental stressors and promote a healthier complexion.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract:
Antioxidant Properties
One of the primary benefits of Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. In the context of skincare, this means that Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract can help protect your skin from damage caused by environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. This can result in a healthier, more youthful appearance.
Skin Protecting
Another key benefit of Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract is its skin-protecting abilities. This ingredient can help to strengthen the skin’s barrier, which is the outermost layer of skin that helps to keep harmful substances out and essential moisture in. A stronger skin barrier can result in healthier, more resilient skin that is less prone to dryness and irritation. This makes Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract a valuable ingredient in products designed to soothe and protect the skin.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, should be considered with caution.
Safety Profile
Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, like with any ingredient, individual reactions may vary and it may not be suitable for all skin types.
While it is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects of topical application of Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Allergic reactions in individuals with plant allergies
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently a lack of data on the safety of topical usage of Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Centella Asiatica Leaf Cell Extract are not common, but it is always recommended to perform a patch test before widespread usage to ensure no adverse reaction occurs.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
