Centella Asiatica (CICA) for Skin
Centella Asiatica (CICA) is an herbal powerhouse that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, but in recent years, it’s become a favorite in modern skincare, especially for those with sensitive, dry, or easily irritated skin. Backed by science and dermatologists, CICA offers gentleness and effectiveness, helping to restore the skin barrier.
What is Centella Asiatica?
Centella Asiatica (CICA) is a leafy green plant that grows in moist, tropical climates. In skincare, it’s often referred to as CICA (short for its scientific name) or tiger grass and its long-standing use in traditional medicine has been validated by modern research showing its ability to help soothe inflammation, accelerate wound healing, and reinforce the skin’s natural protective barrier.
What Does Centella Asiatica Do for the Skin?
Centella Asiatica offers a wide range of skin benefits that make it suitable for almost every skin type—especially those dealing with irritation or sensitivity.
- Soothes inflammation and redness and helps calm the skin
- Strengthens the skin barrier and reduces water loss
- Provides antioxidant protection from environmental stressors like UV and pollution.
- Help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin elasticity over time
Centella Asiatica Benefits by Skin Type
While Centella Asiatica is often labeled as "ideal for sensitive skin," its benefits go well beyond one category. Thanks to its calming, collagen-boosting, and barrier-restoring properties, it offers something for almost every skin type and concern.
Here's a closer look at benefits by skin type:
Centella Asiatica's anti-inflammatory benefits help relieve a compromised skin barrier. By reinforcing the skin barrier, Centella helps calm your skin over time.
Skin that’s dry or showing early signs of aging often suffers from a weakened barrier and reduced elasticity. Centella helps here by restoring hydration and stimulating collagen production, making skin feel plumper and smoother. Its antioxidant properties also combat the oxidative stress that can contribute s to premature aging. Over time, you’ll notice less flakiness, visibly improved tone, and a more resilient texture.
How to Use Centella Asiatica
One of the great things about Centella Asiatica is that it’s remarkably easy to incorporate into your skincare routine. Whether you’re a minimalist or a 10-step skincare enthusiast, Centella plays well with other ingredients.
Use Centella-based products in your morning routine to help defend against environmental stressors. At night, it helps to hydrate and retain moisture to support the skin’s natural barrier overnight. If you’re dealing with a damaged skin barrier or ongoing irritation, using it twice daily may help encourage results.
