Have you heard of Cica? Nothing is permanent in the skincare world: one moment a product is in, and the next thing you know, everybody seems to get over it and ‘discover’ new ingredients and trends. One such skin care ingredient that has been getting a lot of buzz in the past years is Cica.

If you need some justification on how great it is for the skin, well – the Koreans are head-over-heels over this moisturising ingredient. We break down everything there is to know about this skincare miracle and why it might be the new thing your skin could never live without.

What is CICA?

Cica (pronounced as ‘see-ca’) is short for Centella Asiatica. You may have also heard of its other names, like tiger grass, gotu kola, and Indian pennywort. This perennial plant is native in the wetlands of Asia, and it is a medicinal herb that treats wounds, burns, prevents hypertrophic scars, and relieves inflammation for more than a thousand years now. And take note that this plant is not only famous with people because tigers are fond of them too – tigers massage their wounds against the plant, earning it the moniker ‘tiger grass.’

From ancient herbal medicine books, Cica rose to become one of the most in-demand beauty ingredients today. The reason? It is not just a treatment for wounds. Digging deeper into this plant, there are potent substances that make it unique among its competitors. Cica is rich in amino acids, fatty acids, phytochemicals, and vitamins A, B1, B2, and C. Combining all these and the healing extract in its leaves, there is no wonder it is booming with skin benefits.

What are the benefits of cica?

Cica eases skin inflammation

Wild tigers all love rolling in Cica, and it is for good reasons. This moisturising ingredient has potent soothing properties, thanks to the asiaticosides in it. It can calm down your acne breakouts and relieve your eczema and psoriasis flare-ups while also reducing redness in the skin. 

It restores your skin barrier

Cica helps strengthen your skin barrier from harsh irritants and pollutants that damage your skin. To those constantly in front of blue light or under the sun, this ingredient also reinstates your protection from harmful UV rays and other aggravators. 

It boosts hydration and blood circulation

If your skin is on the drier side, Cica will be your new best friend. It keeps your skin looking bright and plump as it helps retain moisture and boost circulation in your skin. 

Cica boosts collagen production

All the fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamins we mentioned earlier explain why cica is such a skincare gem. Together, these substances help boost collagen production, which gives you firmer, smoother, and younger-looking skin. And yes, Cica helps reverse the visible signs of ageing too.

It is safe for all skin types

Cica improves moisture levels in the skin, making it more resistant to irritants and environmental aggressors. It works exceptionally well for dry and sensitive skin, but everyone can benefit from it.

And there you have it – all the reasons why this skincare hero deserves the laurels it gets! For a whole range of Cica infused skincare, check out our curated selection here.