Madecassic Acid

Best

Antioxidant

Madecassic Acid at a glance

  • One of four main bioactive compounds in Centella asiatica
  • Assists in soothing reddened or sensitized skin
  • Contributes to hydration
  • Helps shield skin from pro-aging environmental aggressors

Madecassic Acid description

Madecassic acid is a skin care ingredient used primarily for its soothing benefits. It’s one of the four standout bioactive compounds and triterpenes in _Centella asiatica_ extract alongside asiaticoside, asiatic acid and madecassoside. This active component serves many purposes when included in skin care formulas. It’s been proven to help soothe and calm skin. This ability makes it particularly suited for eczema; it’s even suitable for those with rosacea-prone skin. As a triterpene, madecassic acid also exhibits antioxidant benefits. Like the other bioactive compounds in _Centella asiatica_, it assists in protecting skin from the pro-aging damage that environmental aggressors, like UV rays and pollution, can inflict on skin. When used in a mix with asiaticoside, asiatic acid and madecassoside, madecassic acid can help prompt the creation of natural moisturizing factor hyaluronic acid. This prompts further skin hydration. Madecassic acid is most commonly used in cosmetic formulas in conjunction with other bioactives from _Centella asiatica_ in concentrations ranging from 0.1–2%.

Madecassic Acid references

  • Drug Design, Development and Therapy, November 2022, pages 3793-3804
  • The Korean Journal of Food And Nutrition, December 2020, pages 692-701
  • Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jan-Feb 2016, pages 27-33
  • Phytotherapy Research, January 2014, pages 1117-1124
  • Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, July 2012, pages 7697-7701

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.