Oil extract of gotu kola – a carrier of triterpene saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside). Barrier repair and anti-inflammatory action. Pregnancy-safe.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Centella triterpenes with confirmed barrier-healing action.
Centella Asiatica Oil is an oil maceration of Centella asiatica (gotu kola, tiger grass) leaves in a vegetable oil (sunflower, olive, grape seed). Compared with the aqueous extract, the oil form delivers lipid-soluble triterpenes and carotenoids. Where it is used. Cica-creams and serums for sensitive, reactive, and couperose skin, post-procedure products (laser, peel, microneedling), mature-skin formulations, and atopic dermatitis products. Concentrations 1-10%. In Spain: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5, Avène Cicalfate+, Mustela Cicastela. Composition. Contains triterpene saponins – asiaticoside 0.5-2%, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid. Additionally beta-carotene, tocopherols, and flavonoids. The main actives are the triterpenoids, responsible for regeneration and anti-inflammatory action. Mechanism. Centella triterpenes stimulate type I and III collagen synthesis by fibroblasts through TGF-beta activation. They accelerate re-epithelialization and reduce perilesional edema and erythema. They inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9), which limits collagen breakdown during inflammation. Antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging. Evidence base. Topical centella preparations have evidence base B in wound healing, post-acne, and mild-to-moderate atopy. The Lee 2012 RCT (n=22 with atopic dermatitis) showed a 35% reduction in transepidermal water loss and a 28% drop in erythema over 4 weeks. Bonté 1995 demonstrated 17% faster surgical wound healing. The Wijaya 2022 meta-analysis confirmed efficacy in moderate-to-severe atopy in children. Safety. Pregnancy and breastfeeding – topical use is safe. Oral Centella asiatica during pregnancy requires caution due to a theoretical hepatotoxic risk (isolated case reports). Irritation is rare. Patients with Apiaceae allergy (carrot, parsley, fennel) may have cross-sensitization – a forearm patch test is advisable before first application. Practical notes. In a good Cica formula INCI, Centella Asiatica Oil or extract sits at position 3-7. Compatible with every active – retinoids on alternate days, niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid. Non-comedogenic (Fulton 1). A solid option for patients with couperose, rosacea, post-acne, and post-laser care.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Centella Asiatica Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Centella Asiatica Oil suits: normal, dry, combination, sensitive.
Oil extract of gotu kola – a carrier of triterpene saponins (asiaticoside, madecassoside).
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Centella Asiatica Oil. It may also appear as: масло центеллы.
Published: · updated:
Pregnancy
SafeSuitable for