Study Finds Korean Skincare Ingredient May Help Fight Drug-Resistant Bacteria
By Afaq Wajdan Malik | Published April 24, 2026
A compound commonly found in Korean skincare products may have potential uses beyond beauty treatments, according to new scientific research. The ingredient, known as madecassic acid, could help in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, one of the world’s growing health challenges.
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Kent in collaboration with University College London (UCL) and used both computer modelling and laboratory testing.
Natural Compound From a Medicinal Plant
Madecassic acid is extracted from Centella asiatica, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional Asian medicine and modern skincare products.
Researchers found that the compound shows strong antibacterial activity, making it a promising candidate for future medical research.
This discovery is particularly important as antimicrobial resistance continues to rise globally, with experts warning that drug-resistant infections could cause millions of deaths in the coming decades.
How the Compound Works
According to the study published in RSC Medicinal Chemistry, madecassic acid was able to stop the growth of antibiotic-resistant E. coli bacteria in laboratory tests.
Scientists explained that the compound targets a bacterial protein system known as the cytochrome bd complex, which bacteria use to survive and generate energy.
This system is not found in humans, making it a potential safe target for new antibiotics.
By interfering with this process, the compound weakens the bacteria and prevents it from functioning normally.
Modified Versions Show Stronger Effects
Researchers also created modified versions of the compound to test its effectiveness.
- The team extracted the substance from a plant sample collected in Vietnam
- Three modified versions were developed in the lab
- All versions blocked bacterial growth
- One version was able to kill E. coli at higher concentrations
Scientists say further research is needed to improve its effectiveness and explore its potential as a future treatment.
Link to Skincare and Future Research
Experts also noted that the findings could help explain how madecassic acid interacts with the skin microbiome when used in cosmetic products.
This may provide new insights into how skincare ingredients affect both skin health and bacteria on the skin surface.
Lead researcher Dr. Mark Shepherd from the University of Kent said that many modern medicines are originally derived from plants, and advanced research is now helping scientists better understand how these natural compounds work.
