The rapprochement between skincare e haircare has increased the presence of ingredients traditionally associated with skin care in hair products. Among those beginning to gain prominence in this movement is centella asiatica, an asset widely disseminated throughout the world. K-beautyrecognized for its regenerating and calming properties.

Also called Gotu Kola or CICA, the plant of Asian origin has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. In recent years, under the influence of South Korean cosmetics and their care routines, it has gained worldwide recognition in cosmetics aimed at repairing the skin and strengthening the skin barrier. Now it is starting to appear more frequently in formulas aimed at treating the scalp and hair.

The hair market’s interest in the component is linked to the trend known as “skinification of hair.” hair“, which proposes treating the scalp with the same attention given to the skin of the face. In this context, active ingredients with calming and regenerating properties are now also valued in shampoos, tonics, masks and specific treatments for the hair fiber.

Main benefits of centella asiatica for hair health

According to Ana Regina Farias, hairdresser and hair process technician at Embelleze, centella asiatica can contribute to the balance of the scalp and the health of the hair. “It has bioactive compounds that help stimulate regeneration processes and improve the quality of the scalp, which directly impacts the health of the fiber. In hair formulas, it can contribute to strengthening the hair, reducing scalp sensitivity and promoting a more balanced environment for growth”, he explains.

According to the expert, the component also appears associated with formulas aimed at recovering sensitized hair. “When combined with ingredients that help balance the pH of the hair, as in treatments acidifiers, centella asiatica can enhance fiber repair and help reduce porosity. One example is Novex Acid Control Anti-Damage Acidifier, a product that combines CICA with lactic acid in a care proposal aimed at sealing the cuticles and recovering damaged hair”, he comments.

Among the main benefits attributed to the extract in hair care are its healing action, which helps maintain the integrity of the scalp. Furthermore, its natural compounds, such as triterpenes and flavonoids, are associated with improving tissue regeneration and strengthening the hair structure.

Indications for use of centella asiatica

Products formulated with the active ingredient are usually recommended especially for those whose hair is weakened by chemical processes, such as bleaching, coloring or straightening, as well as people with scalp sensitive or who seek to strengthen hair health in a preventive way.

Although it is still better known in the world of skincarethe growing presence of centella asiatica in hair products indicates a movement of innovation in the sector, which is betting on multifunctional ingredients and an increasingly integrated approach between skin and hair care.

By Caroline Amorim