Asiaticoside
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
One of the soothing compounds present in Centella asiatica Has proven skin-soothing properties
EWG Safety Score
What Is Asiaticoside?
Asiaticoside’s one of the major triterpene saponins present in Centella asiatica (AKA Gotu Kola and cica), functioning as an antioxidant and soothing ingredient when used in skin care.
It might be easy to confuse asiaticoside for the plant extract \Centella asiatica\’s other impactful compounds, madecassoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid, however asiaticoside is its own substance.
Research continually demonstrates asiaticoside’s soothing properties on skin, making it particularly suitable for sensitive skin types, as well as even being suitable for skin prone to eczema or rosacea.
Asiaticoside also assists skin in mitigating the damage that’s associated with external pro-ageing aggressors, like UV rays and pollution. This additional defense helps keep skin appearing more youthful in the long-term, deterring the formation of wrinkles, fine lines and an uneven tone often associated with environmental damage.
Further studies have suggested that asiaticoside might have a positive impact on skin firmness through helping to support skin’s underlying architectural structure, but more research needs to be conducted to confirm this conclusion.
When used in skin care and cosmetics, asiaticoside’s usually included in formulas in amounts between 0.2% and 5%.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
- ULProspector, Accessed December 2022, Webpage
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology, November 2022, ePublication
- Pharmaceutics, January 2022, ePublication
- Materials Science and Engineering: C, February 2021, ePublication
- Applied Biological Chemistry, December 2021, ePublication
- Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, June 2016, pages 1269-1274
- Phytochemical Analysis, November 2015, pages 436-443
Published Research
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Asiaticoside from Centella asiatica International Journal of Dermatology, 1999
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Centella asiatica triterpenoids in wound healing Molecules, 2013
Frequently Asked Questions
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Take the skin quizOther forms of Asiaticoside
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Asiaticoside is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Centella Asiatica Derivatives
Isolated cica compounds for targeted skin soothing
Ascorbyl Stearate
A stabilised form of vitamin C that works to neutralise free radicals in the skin
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate
Oil soluble derivative of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) Helps prevent pro-ageing environmental damage
Ascorbyl Tocopheryl Maleate
A stabilised vitamin C derivative that works as an antioxidant and skin conditioner
Aspalathus Linearis Extract
Plant extract that’s also known as Rooibos
Aspergillus Ferment
Fungi/mold extract produced via fermentation Noted in research for skin-brightening benefits
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