Centella asiatica doesn't typically "whiten" skin in the sense of bleaching or dramatically changing the overall skin color. Instead, it primarily works to brighten skin tone and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, leading to a more even and radiant complexion.
How Centella Improves Skin Tone and Brightness
According to research, Centella asiatica contains beneficial compounds that contribute to its positive effects on skin tone. These compounds help to address uneven skin and dark spots, which results in a brighter look.
Key Brightening Compounds in Centella
The reference specifically highlights certain active compounds found in Centella asiatica that are responsible for its skin-brightening properties:
- Asiaticoside: This compound is part of the group shown to have positive effects on skin tone.
- Madecassoside: Similar to asiaticoside, madecassoside is another key component contributing to the skin-brightening effects of Centella.
These compounds have been shown to have skin-brightening effects. They work to improve overall skin tone and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation (like dark spots or post-inflammatory marks), contributing to a more uniform and brighter look rather than a general lightening of the skin.
Therefore, while it may not cause a "whitening" effect in the traditional sense, Centella effectively enhances skin brightness and evens out discoloration.
