Insider Blog

If you have dry 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 dry skin. A 2016 study* found that cosmetic formulations containing Centella asiatica extract provided moisturizing properties, helpful when dealing with skin care concerns. 

How can you incorporate Centella asiatica into your routine?  

Avon’s new Beyond Glow Centella Collection will help you get the hydration you need. Our latest collection features three new formulations powered by this plant. For an instant dose of hydration, try the Beyond Glow Centella Cooling Toner, which refreshes and moisturizes in seconds— 96%‡ of users said their skin felt instantly cooled after application. You’ll also 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 dryness. This soft, non-sticky cream is suitable for daily use.  

If you’re struggling with dry skin, (tiger-approved) Centella asiatica may just be what your skin care routine is missing..  

*Ratz-Łyko A, Arct J, Pytkowska K. Moisturizing and Antiinflammatory Properties of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Centella asiatica Extract. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2016 Jan-Feb;78(1):27-33. doi: 10.4103/0250-474x.180247. PMID: 27168678; PMCID: PMC4852572. 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4852572/. Accessed on 2/16/2025. 

‡Based on a consumer perception study of 31 people.  

§Based on a consumer perception study of 32 people.