Cica (Centella Asiatica): Korea's Favourite Calming Herb

October 27, 20262 min read

Sun, sweat, a new product that didn't agree with you. When skin goes red and cranky, cica is what Korean skincare reaches for first.

What is cica?

Cica is short for Centella asiatica, a leafy plant also known as tiger grass or gotu kola. Its key compounds include madecassoside and asiaticoside. On labels you'll see Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside or Cica.

What it does for your skin

Calms the look of redness. It helps settle skin that looks flushed or irritated.
Soothes and comforts. Skin feels less hot, tight and sensitive.
Supports recovery. It helps stressed skin get back to feeling like itself.

Who it suits

Sensitive, reactive and redness-prone skin, and anyone using strong actives like retinol or acids. Great after a day in the sun or a long-haul flight.

Skin MBTI match: S (sensitive). Not sure of yours? The Skin MBTI quiz tells you in three minutes.

How to use it

Use a cica toner or serum after cleansing, morning and night.
On bad-skin days, layer a cica cream on top or use a cica sheet mask.
Patch-test new formulas if your skin is very reactive.

When you'll notice it: Skin often feels calmer the same day. Redness looks more settled after a week or two of steady use.

Good to know: Gentle for most people. As with any plant extract, patch-test first if you have plant allergies.

What to pair it with

Cica pairs well with panthenol, ceramides and hyaluronic acid. It also makes a good buffer alongside retinol, AHA or BHA.

Myth vs fact

Myth: Cica only works in creams.
Fact: Toners, ampoules, masks and even cleansers can all carry it. Pick the format that fits your routine.

How to choose one

Look for Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside or 'cica' near the top of the list.
Toners and ampoules work for everyday calm. Creams and sheet masks suit bad-skin days.
If you're very reactive, choose formulas without fragrance or essential oils.

Where to find it

From the big names, SKIN1004's ampoule is 100% Madagascar centella extract, and Purito's Wonder Releaf serum has no synthetic fragrance. Ongredients and Dancing Whale bring cica to a softener and a sheet mask.