In the last few years years, Cica has had a revival and has begun to get more attention for its remarkable ability to soothe and boost the appearance of skin. Although traditionally a staple in asian skincare, you can now readily find Cica in a number of trendy products where it is the core ingredient. Beyond the hyper though we ask what exactly is Cica and what does it do for your skin? In this article, we’ll explore what is Cica or Centella and the science behind its benefits for skin. We’ll also review the best way to use Cica skincare for calmer, smoother, plumper and more radiant skin.
What Is Cica?
Cica is actually short for Centella Asiatica which is also commonly known as Gotu Kola or tiger grass. It’s a plant native to Southeast Asia and has long use in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for its wound-healing and soothing properties. In fact, it’s often said that wild tigers roll in these plants to heal their wounds—hence the nickname “tiger grass”. Despite Cica being around for centuries, it is currently enjoying a moment!
The main ways Cica works is it helps calm inflammation, support wound healing and reinforce the skin barrier. It also helps regnerate the skin and protect against environmental damage. These benefits make it a perfect addition for those with sensitive, reactive, acne-prone or ageing skin. Global skincare brands have started to take notice. Spurred on by the success of Korean beauty, beauty brands have set their sights on Cica as the next big ingredient. You can now find it in everything from creams and serums to cleansers, toners, essences and masks.
Benefits of Cica (Centella Asciatica) for Skin
Beyond the hype, there are actually benefits to the skin form using Cica. Here are the properties that make Centella Asciatica an attractive skincare ingredient:
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Cica deserves its reputation as a calming ingredient. It contains bioactive compounds such as asiaticoside, madecassoside and asiatic acid which help reduce inflammation. This makes Cica ideal for soothing redness and irritation. It can provide relief for acne-prone, Rosacea, Eczema or sensitive skin. Cica can help reduce redness and swelling for a smoother more even complexion.
- Skin Barrier Support: A healthy skin barrier is key to resilient and hydrated skin. When this barrier is compromised, the skin can become more prone to sensitivity, dryness and irritation. Cica helps to strengthen the skin barrier by promoting collagen production. This boosts skin’s strength, firmness and elasticity.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Free radicals from pollution, sun exposure and environmental stressors can lead to premature ageing and uneven skin tone. Cica’s antioxidant properties help neutralise these free radicals. This reduces oxidative stress and helps to prevent fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation and brighten the skin.
- Moisture Boost: Cica’s ability to draw moisture to the skin makes it a fantastic option for people struggling with dry or dehydrated skin. It not only hydrates but also helps the skin retain moisture thus preventing water loss. These actions leave skin feeling softer and smoother. Additionally, Cica’s moisture-retentive quality also boosts skin plumpness and elasticity.
Who Should Use Cica Skincare?
Cica has quickly become a skincare staple because it offers a bit of something for everyone. It is also quite widely tolerated with few side effects. That being said there are people who will benefit more than others. Here are the types of skin that could get the most out of using Cica:
- Sensitive Skin: Cica’s calming properties make it ideal for those with reactive skin.
- Acne-Prone Skin: Cica can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. It can also minimise the irritation caused by acne treatments like Retinoids and azelaic acid.
- Dry & Dehydrated Skin: Thanks to its moisturising properties, Cica is perfect for skin that struggles to retain hydration.
- Mature Skin: With its antioxidant benefits and support for collagen production, Cica can help tackle signs of skin ageing.
How to Use Cica Skincare
Now a days, you can find Cica in a range of skincare products. You will either find Centella Asiatica as the active ingredient or some products isolate its individual compounds (like madecassoside or asiaticoside). If you have sensitive or reactive skin, try to avoid formulas with added fragrances or irritants, as these can counteract Cica’s soothing properties. Here are the best ways to introduce Cica or Centella into your skincare routine:
- Cleansers: If you’re dealing with acutely irritated or very sensitive skin, a gentle cica cleanser can help start your skincare routine on the right note. Cica cleansers remove impurities while respecting the skin’s natural oils, ensuring your skin stays clean without feeling stripped or tight. This is a good choice for people with sensitive or reactive skin but not necessarily useful if you have dry or mature skin which is better off with a leave on product.
- Toners & Serums: Cica toners are an excellent option if you regularly suffer from redness, sensitivity or inflammation. They provide an initial layer of hydration and protection to calm and soothe the skin.
- Moisturisers: For dry or mature skin (or if you;re short of time), moistrusiers are probbaly the best and easiest way to get the benefits of Cica. You can use Cica moisturisers day and night to help seal in moisture, support the skin barrier and revive the skin.
- Masks: For very dry or irritated skin you can use a Cica mask for intense soothing treatment. Cica masks are ideal after exposure to harsh weather, stress or treatments like chemical peels. These masks calm and hydrate the skin to provide a noticeable difference in skin texture and tone.
Cica is a standout ancient skincare ingredient that has a long history of use to soothe and heal the skin. It is an-all rounder that provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hydrating and collagen boosting benefits. It is particularly beneficial for those struggling with sensitivity, dryness, reactive or ageing skin. With regular use, Cica can boost our skin’s health for smoother, brighter and fresher looking skin.
At City Skin clinic, we are devoted to personalised skincare. Through our virtual skin clinic, we connect clients with our doctors for safe and effective treatments like Tretinoin and Hydroquinone where appropriate. We treat skin conditions like acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma and skin ageing. To start your personalised skincare protocol, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
