What is Cica?
If you’re a fan of K-beauty brands (like us!), you’ll notice most of these brands carry products with the name “Cica”. No idea what these four letters stand for? Let us guide you and Cica products might just find their way into your skin care routine!
Cica is actually a nickname for the star ingredient Centella Asiatica, also commonly known as Indian Pennywort or Asiatic Pennywort. This plant is mostly found in the swamp lands of the Asian region. So far, it has mostly been used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Centella Asiatica and its benefits
- Reduce inflammation
The main active part of Centella Asiatica, Asiaticosides, has soothing and healing properties. Which makes Cica branded products ideal for people with sensitive skin, who experience redness, inflammation, irritation and itchiness.
- Antioxidant
Centella Asiatica also contains an active compound called Madecassoside which acts as an antioxidant. Among other things, it helps neutralise free radical damage caused by the sun and other external aggressors.
- Improve the skin’s hydration levels
Rich in Amino Acids, Madecassoside also plays a significant role in providing hydration to soothe dry, rough and irritated skin.
- Heal the skin’s barrier and wounds
Finally, the compound Madecassoside has the ability to protect or heal the skin’s barrier. It helps in the synthesis of collagen to heal wounds and maintain a youthful complexion.
For those who suffer from skin dryness, eczema, rosacea, and over-use of harsh skincare products or acne, Centella could be an ingredient that helps soothe and heal the skin, as it encourages healing and prevents scarring.
As we now know the benefits of Centella Asiatica, it could very well be the answer to put all those skin issues at bay. If you ever experience blemishes, redness, irritation, itchiness, here are some products we strongly recommend you to try to discover the wonders of Centella Asiatica.
- Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Centella Sensitive Facial Cleanser, SGD59 (Robinsons)
- L’OREAL Revitalift Dermalift Pure Centella Micro-Essence Water, SGD35.90 (Watsons)
- La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Blaume B5, SGD21.90 (Watsons)
- Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask, SGD45 (Sephora)
- Dr.Jart Cicapair Serum, SGD 66 (Sephora)
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