What is Cica or Centella Asiatica?

Why is it so popular in Korean skincare products?

(source: stock images) 

Cica is the shorten name of Centella Asiatica, an ingredient known for its healing efficacy. In fact, Cica has been used to treat wounds for centuries. There is a notion from which the use of Cica on skin is inspired: In Asia, tigers use this green herb to treat their wounds, as it helps with the regeneration of their skin. There are also scientific studies indicate that the extract from this leafy plant promotes healing of damages caused by burns and incisions.

In Korea, sensitive skin is one of the major skin concerns. This is believed to be due to the high level of air pollution, causing irritation and sensitivity. As a result, Korean beauty products, especially in terms of skincare, usually include sensitized skin-friendly ingredients in order to help reduce redness and calm inflammation derived from exposure to environmental aggressors.

How does Cica/ Centella Asiatica actually help?

It is widely believed that Cica has the “solution” for every skin type, be it oily, dry, or a combination of both. In addition, some common skin concerns such as acne and rosacea can be well treated with continuous use of products that have Cica extract in it. But the question is, how does it do it?

The benefits that Cica can bring about can be explained with its chemical composition. Particularly, it contains a variety of fatty acids, amino acids, beta-carotene, and full of different kinds of vitamins, including vitamin A, B1, B2, and C. While fatty acids enhance skin’s hydration level, amino acids help moisturize skin and strengthen skin barrier, beta-carotene protects skin from UVA-light induced damages and serves as an antioxidant, the vitamins help soothe, repair skin and neutralize free radicals. These chemical components together provide an antimicrobial boost for skin, preventing and treating skin inflammation. In order words, Cica can stimulate skin regeneration by promoting collagen production, blood circulation, cellular repair, and moisture retention. Thus, skin will appear more hydrated, less irritated, and less inflamed when using products with Cica in it.

What products to use?

Since Cica is “taking over” the K-beauty products, there are a lot of options in the market, which can be confusing to some. Furthermore, it is essential to use the right product for particular concerns. We have included some recommendations below to help you with your journey towards a better skin.

NEOGEN Calming Cica Tree Pads

A fine microfiber pad that gently impurifies skin while replenishing hydration and soothing irritation. Includes non-irritating peeling ingredients: PHA and LHA. Suitable for acne-prone, sensitive, congested skin.

VT Cosmetics Cica Sun Spray SPF50+/PA+++

Protect your skin from the sun damage and UV exposure with this easy-to-apply sun spray. VT Cica Sun spray is formulated with Centella Asiatica Extract to cool and calm the skin. You'll love the refreshing, breathable and non-greasy finish.

MEDI-PEEL Green Cica Rose Modeling Pack 1KG

Experience an at-home spa treatment in midst of lockdown. This essence modeling pack designed to be use without water to deliver rich moisture to the skin. It calms and makes the skin healthy by using 3 types of rose extract and 4 kinds of cica ingredients.

Rovectin Skin Essentials Dr. Mask Cica

A “magical” soothing sheet mask, providing extra hydration, calming redness, clearing out impurities. Contains Cica (madecassoside) and Calamine to calm and revitalizes sensitive and reduces the appearance of scars and dark spots. Also includes plant-based BHA ingredients to exfoliate dead skin cells without any irritation. Suitable for dry, sensitive, acne-prone skin with hyperpigmentation concerns.

Centellian24 Madeca Relief Cream Mist

Hydrate and calm your skin anytime of the day. Sprits this fine cream mist all over your face to hydrate and nourish sensitive and dry skin as if applying cream in anywhere and anytime. Formulated with Centella Asiatica extract and TECA (Titrated Extract of Centella Asiatica) helps to soothe skin.

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Cream

A powerful repairing cream infused with Centella RX (Centella Asiatica Extract + Green Repair Herb) is designed to calm irritation, redness and severely sensitized skin. Suitable for overly dry, dehydrated skin and ones seeking for recovery boost post treatment/exposure to skin stressors. 

What do you think about this magical skin repairing ingredient?

Visit us in-store (after lockdown) or message us online for more information and consultation! Browse our website for more Cica extract products at https://www.lacosmetique.com.au

We ship across Australia! Authenticity guaranteed!