Centella Asiatica (Cica)
INCI: Centella Asiatica Extract
soothing
Centella asiatica, commonly called 'cica' in K-beauty, is a medicinal herb with powerful anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It contains madecassoside, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid — compounds that calm irritation, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Key Benefits
- Powerfully soothes irritation, redness, and sensitivity
- Accelerates wound healing and post-procedure recovery
- Strengthens the skin barrier with madecassoside
- Stimulates collagen synthesis — anti-aging benefit
- Protects against oxidative stress
- Safe for rosacea, eczema, and post-acne skin
Potential Side Effects
- Extremely well-tolerated — one of the safest K-beauty ingredients
- Rare contact dermatitis in individuals with daisy family (Apiaceae) allergies
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cica in Korean skincare?
Cica is the K-beauty nickname for Centella Asiatica, a medicinal herb used for centuries in Asian medicine. In skincare, it is prized for its ability to soothe, repair, and strengthen sensitive skin.
Is centella asiatica good for rosacea?
Yes. Centella asiatica is one of the best ingredients for rosacea-prone skin. Its madecassoside component reduces inflammatory redness and strengthens the compromised barrier typical in rosacea.
Can I use centella asiatica every day?
Yes, twice daily. It is gentle enough for morning and evening use and pairs well with sunscreen, niacinamide, and ceramides.
What is the difference between centella asiatica and tiger grass?
Tiger grass is another name for centella asiatica. Both refer to the same plant — the 'tiger grass' name refers to the legend that tigers rubbed against it to heal wounds.
Is cica good for acne?
Yes. Cica reduces the inflammation caused by acne, speeds up healing of active breakouts, and fades post-acne marks. It is ideal for inflamed, sensitive acne-prone skin.