Meet Centella Asiatica, aka “Cica” – the skincare essential everyone’s talking about! It is a botanical herb that grows in temperate and tropical swampy areas. It has become more popular as a natural skincare ingredient because it promotes healthy, calm skin. Let’s discover the skin benefits of Centella Asiatica! 🌿
How Does Cica Transform Your Skin?
1. Soothes Irritation
Did you get sensitive skin that reacts to every little thing? Cica to the rescue! This soothing herb is packed with anti-inflammatory compounds like asiaticoside and madecassoside, which work to reduce redness and keep irritation in check. Whether you’re dealing with acne, sensitivity, or just a little too much sun, Centella is here to cool things down and restore balance.
Product Pick: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Think of this as a soothing spa day in a bottle! This lightweight ampoule is filled with pure Centella Asiatica from Madagascar to keep your skin feeling cool, calm, and collected. Perfect for those days when your skin just needs a little extra TLC.
2. Wound Healing and Collagen Boosting
With impressive wound-healing properties, Centella is ideal for fading acne scars and reducing stubborn dark spots. It even stimulates collagen production, giving your skin a boost in firmness and elasticity.
Product Pick: GLAD2GLOW Centella Allantoin Soothing Gel Moisturizer
This gel moisturizer combines Centella with allantoin, which is like double the soothing power. It’s ultra-lightweight and great for oily or acne-prone skin. Plus, it gives you a refreshing, hydrated glow – no heavy residue, no stickiness, just pure, cool comfort!
3. Hydrating
Dry, flaky skin got you down? Don’t worry, Centella helps to keep your skin plump and and deeply moisturized while strengthening its natural barrier. A healthy barrier means skin that’s less prone to moisture loss, fine lines, and irritation.
Product Pick: COSRX Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner
This toner is a lifesaver for thirsty skin. With Centella water as its star ingredient and zero alcohol, it’s super gentle and leaves your skin feeling soft and dewy. Ideal for layering on moisture or as a prep step before your moisturizer!
Centella Asiatica is beneficial in the management of eczema, psoriasis, veins, and stretch marks. For acne sufferers, it speeds healing, helping to prevent scarring and prevent future blemishes. Centella Asiatica contains “Madecassoside” that boosts antioxidant activity at the site of wounds, strengthening the skin and increasing blood circulation.
4. Antioxidant Protection
Centella not only protects but deeply hydrates your skin from within. Think of it as your skin’s personal moisture magnet – it helps draw and lock in hydration while its antioxidant properties work to strengthen your skin’s natural defenses. When delivered through an essence mask, these benefits are amplified, allowing for maximum absorption and giving your skin that coveted bouncy, dewy glow.
Product Pick: Watsons Deep Hydra Essence Mask
This intensive hydrating mask combines the antioxidant power of Centella with deep moisture, creating a protective barrier that helps shield your skin from environmental stressors. Perfect for those days when your skin needs an extra boost of protection and hydration. The essence-rich formula ensures your skin stays nourished and resilient against daily environmental challenges.
Extras!
When your skin is feeling stressed, irritated, or just needs some extra TLC, Centella really shows its strength as a calming superhero.
Product Pick: PB Cica Soothe Cream
This gentle yet powerful cream harnesses the full potential of Centella (also known as Cica) to provide immediate comfort to sensitive or irritated skin. The rich, soothing formula creates a protective cushion that helps reduce redness and calm inflammation while strengthening your skin barrier. Whether you’re dealing with occasional sensitivity or just want to maintain balanced, happy skin, this cream works as your daily dose of comfort. Its non-greasy texture makes it perfect for both day and night use, helping your skin stay calm and collected 24/7.
How Is Cica Used in Skincare and Beyond?
1. Skincare Products
Centella Asiatica has been used as a natural skincare ingredient extensively in recent years. This natural botanical herb first started appearing in South Korean Cica creams. Now, Cica creams have become cornerstones of the K-beauty ritual because of their noticeable soothing benefits. The extract of Centella Asiatica “Madecassoside” is also sold as Madécassol Cream in France.
2. Topical Medications
Beyond skincare, Centella Asiatica is used in topical treatments for a variety of skin concerns, including burns, stretch marks, raised scars, and inflammation. It has even been used in the treatment of leprosy due to its healing and restorative benefits.
3. Oral Medications/ Dietary Supplements
Centella Asiatica isn’t just for external use—it’s also available in oral medications and dietary supplements. When consumed, it can help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling, making it a versatile addition to your wellness routine.
Suggested Dosage of Centella Asiatica
(1) Centella Asiatica extract for poor blood circulation/vein problems: 60mg orally two to three times daily
(2) Centella Asiatica topical cream for burns: Apply 3% Centella Asiatica cream daily
***Please consult your doctor before using the medications***
Side Effects
Although Centella Asiatica Extract is a natural ingredient and allergies are rare, it is possible to be allergic. It may cause itchiness and redness. It would be great to do a patch test behind your ear or on your arm for a few days before applying to your face. For oral intake of Centella Asiatica, it may cause nausea and stomach pain.
