Effects of 5% Centella asiatica extract cream for skin whitening

Abstract

Background: Centella asiatica is a medicinal herb renowned for its wide range of dermatological benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. Crucially, its bioactive compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, have demonstrated significant anti-tyrosinase activity in vitro, indicating a strong potential for inhibiting melanogenesis. However, robust clinical evidence for its efficacy as a standalone skin-lightening agent has been lacking. Objective: To study the effects and safety of a 5% Centella asiatica extract cream for facial skin whitening. Materials & Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental, before-and-after design. Twenty healthy male and female volunteers (aged 25-45 years with Fitzpatrick skin types III-V) were enrolled. Participants applied the 5% Centella asiatica extract cream to the entire face twice daily for 12 weeks. The efficacy of the treatment was objectively assessed at baseline, 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks by measuring the mean melanin index using a Mexameter® MX18 and through comparative photographic analysis with the VISIA® system. Participant satisfaction and any adverse effects were independently evaluated by three dermatologists and recorded throughout the study duration. Results: The mean melanin index of the facial skin showed a statistically significant decrease at each follow-up visit compared to baseline. Dermatologist evaluations noted progressive clinical improvement, with 70% of participants achieving moderate improvement and 30% showing good improvement by week 12. The product achieved a high satisfaction score, with 60% of participants reporting moderate satisfaction and 40% reporting being very satisfied. Critically, no adverse effects were observed or reported throughout the 12-week study period. Conclusion: The findings of this study confirm that a 5% Centella asiatica extract cream is an effective and safe topical treatment for facial skin whitening. It significantly reduces melanin content and is exceptionally well-tolerated, presenting a viable natural alternative to conventional synthetic depigmenting agents.