Soothing · Barrier Support · Antioxidant
Centella Asiatica
Centella Asiatica Extract · Cica · Gotu Kola · Tiger Grass
A calming herbal extract, often called 'cica,' built around redness relief and barrier recovery.
Good for
- Sensitive
- Acne-Prone
- Combination
Targets
- Redness
- Barrier
- Acne
What it is
Centella asiatica is a small, leafy herb — also known as cica, gotu kola, or tiger grass — that has been used in traditional medicine for wound healing for centuries. In skincare it's extracted for its active compounds, including madecassoside and asiaticoside, and became a Korean skincare mainstay through "cica" creams and ampoules aimed at calming irritated or compromised skin.
What it does
Centella's active compounds help visibly reduce redness and support the skin's natural barrier repair process, which is why it's a go-to for skin that's reactive, breakout-prone, or recovering from over-exfoliation or sun exposure. It also carries antioxidant properties that help protect skin from everyday environmental stress. Because it calms without heavy occlusive ingredients, it's a common pairing for acne-prone skin that still needs soothing support.
How to use it
Look for it in toners, ampoules, and creams layered right after cleansing, especially on days when skin feels flushed, tight, or freshly treated with an active ingredient. It's gentle enough for daily morning and night use and pairs well with barrier-supporting moisturizers.
Good to know
Well tolerated by most skin types, including reactive skin, though the fresh-cut leaf scent in some formulas can be a mild sensory irritant for a few people.
Keep exploring
Build the next layer.
Use this ingredient as a starting point, then compare it with nearby actives, your routine, and product guides before you buy anything.