Centella Asiatica
SoothingBarrier RepairNaturalAlso known as: Cica, Tiger Grass, Gotu Kola, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside
A herbaceous plant used for centuries in traditional medicine. Rich in active compounds (madecassoside, asiaticoside) that calm inflammation and promote wound healing.
Routine placement
Serum · AM & PM
Time to results
2-4 weeks for calmed irritation; 8-12 weeks for scar improvement
Soothes irritation and inflammation, promotes wound healing, strengthens skin barrier, anti-aging properties, calms redness.
Apply morning and/or evening. Available as serums, creams, and masks. Works well with most other actives. Suitable for daily use.
Beginner
0.1%
Intermediate
0.5-1%
Advanced
1-5% (extract)
Traditional use supported by modern research. Studies show centella extracts promote collagen synthesis, improve wound healing, and reduce inflammation.
Key Studies
Centella asiatica in dermatology (2013)
Phytotherapy Research
Centella asiaticas triterpenes (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) stimulate collagen synthesis and have potent anti-inflammatory effects.
Wound healing properties of Centella asiatica (2012)
Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Centella asiatica accelerates wound healing and reduces hypertrophic scarring by modulating collagen remodeling.
CICA in sensitive skin care (2020)
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
Centella asiatica extract significantly reduced skin sensitivity, redness, and transepidermal water loss in clinical trials on sensitive skin subjects.
- rare plant allergies
Cautions
Very well tolerated. Rare cases of contact dermatitis. Patch test if you have plant allergies.
What is CICA in skincare?
CICA is short for Centella asiatica, also called tiger grass. It is a soothing, healing ingredient popular in Korean skincare for calming irritation and repairing the skin barrier.
Can I use Centella asiatica with retinol?
Yes — Centella is an excellent pairing with retinol as it calms the irritation and redness retinol can cause while supporting barrier repair.
Is Centella asiatica good for acne scars?
Yes. The triterpenes in Centella stimulate collagen remodeling, which can improve the appearance of acne scars over 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
Centella asiatica vs niacinamide for redness?
Both reduce redness but through different mechanisms. Centella is anti-inflammatory and healing. Niacinamide strengthens the barrier and reduces sebum. They work well together.
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