A Prospective Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind Trial of the Efficacy Using Centella Cream for Scar Improvement

Objective. This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of Centella asiatica extract in cream, a preparation for the prevention of scar development of the split-thickness skin graft (STSG) donor site. Methods. A prospective randomized, double-blind control study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of Centella cream in 30 patients who underwent a STSG operation. Both Centella cream and placebo were applied equally to the donor site at least 2 weeks after epithelialization was completed. A scar assessment using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) was taken at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Results. Of the original 30 patients, 23 patients completed evaluation. There were significant differences in pigmentation parameter of VSS and comparative total VSS scores between 4 and 12 weeks in Centella cream group. Conclusion. The effect of Centella cream on scar development of a STSG operation may be attainable in terms of better pigmentation. By means of objective measurements and longer follow-up times, Centella cream may prove to be an alternative product for hypertrophic scar amelioration