Meet the Anti-Ageing Skincare Ingredient: Gotu Kola

Have you noticed a considerably newer name “Gotu Kola/ Cica” doing rounds on the skincare table? If this new ingredient has you wondering about its benefits, you must continue reading this blog!

Well, known by its scientific name Centella Asiatica or commonly as Pennywort or Cica, Gotu Kola is best known in the ancient world for its health benefits (improves brain function, eases anxiety, treats infections and is revered as an herb of longevity, among others). 

Today, due to its potent combination of amino acids, beta carotene, fatty acids and phytochemicals which help the skin fight off signs of aging and environmental stressors, it has been labelled as the “skincare elixir”.

This heal-all ingredient is one of the most important anti-aging, skin healing, blood vessel supporting, skin tightening and anti-cellulite actives known today. Lets see why:

1) Gotu Kola is rich with antioxidants:

It augments the skin’s ability to fend off environmental stressors that can wreak havoc on your skin, and gets rid of impurities that can bring about signs of premature aging like dark spots, wrinkles, and dull skin.

2) Stimulates collagen production:

Gotu kola’s ability to stimulate new collagen synthesis and enhance blood circulation helps in achieving younger looking skin and fight skin aging. Due to this property, it also aids in the removal of cellulite, scars and stretch marks.

3) Aids in skin hydration:

Age, internal health conditions and exposure to the elements deplete and damage the skin barrier. This leads to poor moisture retention and dry, dehydrated skin.

Bioactive ingredients in Gotu Kola such as saponins, flavonoids, phenolic compounds and essential amino acids help repair the skin barrier and prevent transepidermal water loss. With increased moisture content, your skin appears plump, hydrated and healthy.

4) It has cleansing properties:

It has amazing detoxifying properties and cleanses your skin and removes dirt, bacteria that are known to cause various skin conditions. Further, its astringent nature removes excess oil from the face, keeping your pores squeaky clean.

5) It can brighten, tighten, and smooth skin:

Gotu Kola can dramatically reduce the look of scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles. It’s also fabulous for your eye area as it can minimize the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. Overall, it will rejuvenate and revitalize your skin helping you feel fresh faced and fabulous!

6) Gotu Kola fights inflammation:

Full of calming properties, Gotu Kola reduces temporary redness and relieves discomfort associated with skin sensitivity. This makes it a great ingredient to look for if you have sensitive skin.

7) Treats acne:

Gotu kola has been used since ancient times to cure a variety of skin diseases including acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties treat inflamed acne. Its antibacterial and antioxidant properties curb bacterial proliferation in your pores and initiate quick wound healing. Gotu kola also prevents the formation of acne scars and marks.

8) Accelerates wound healing:

Gotu kola can work magic on wounds and burns. Its antiseptic properties prevent further infection and its anti-inflammatory abilities reduce swelling around the wound site. Gotu kola calms the skin and improves blood supply to the wound for quick healing.

9) Treats Skin Infections:

Gotu kola exhibits antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help treat various skin infections. Acetic acid in gotu kola is effective against a number of bacterial strains.

This skincare elixir has been used as an active ingredient in our Rejuvenating Night Face Elixir and Radiance Sleeping Mask. 

This ingredient goes deep within our skin to hydrate, nourish and work on the signs of aging overnight. A non-sticky, miraculous ingredient, it works in harmony with the other potent ingredients to also give you a radiant glow.

Next time you’re shopping, don’t forget to check out for this wondrous herb!