Sensitive skins rejoice: cica skincare has arrived
Cica skincare is having a moment right now. But what is cica, and how can you use it in your skincare routine?
What is cica?
Cica is the nickname or shorter, more commonly used term for Centella Asiatica, a herb that's well known in Asia. Also known as asiatic acid, hydrocotyl, or gotu kola in different parts of the world, you may also see cica-infused products that are labelled as 'tiger grass'. This is due to the fact that tiger's in Asia roll around in the plant in order to regenerate their skin. Cica has always been popular in Chinese medicine for years, and has recently hit the big time in Western culture thanks to our fascination with K-beauty. While initially 'cica cream' was the most recognised of cica-infused products, you can now buy anything from cica cleansers to CC creams.
Why should we use cica skincare?
Cica has a huge list of skin benefits, but it is most well known for its healing, soothing, antibacterial, and inflammatory properties, meaning it is ideal for sensitised skin. Cica skincare is great for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, scarring, and cellulite, and are incredibly moisturising.
Dr Eleanor Bradley, Skincare Scientific Advisory for YourGoodSkin explains that cica is good for 'skin that is out of balance and prone to fluctuations due to busy lifestyles, lack of sleep or environmental stress.'
'Cica pastes can help strengthen the skin barrier and improve the healthy appearance of your skin whilst you sleep,' she continues.
It is therefore a brilliant all-rounder wonder ingredient that's definitely worth investing in.
Best cica moisturiser
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Cica Anti Wrinkle Repair Cream, Boots
As well as targeting mature skin types that are concerned with fine lines, this product is ideal for sensitive skin that needs extra repair and nourishment. Made with the Centella Asiatica plant, you can use this formula to heal the skin as well as to turn back time.
Buy now
Best cica serum
Dr Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Re.Pair Serum, Amazon
Even the most sensitised skin can handle this super gentle serum, which features cica to reduce inflammation, redness and blemishes. Instead of rubbing this into skin like a cream, pat it gently to maximise its efficacy and active ingredients. In terms of cica skincare, this is one of the best buys you can get.
Buy now
Best cica lip balm
La Roche Posay Cicaplast Lip Balm, Boots
Lips that suffer from severe dryness even after using lip balm will benefit from a dose of cica. This formula forms a protective barrier around the lips, protecting them from the elements and other outside aggressors. It is so gentle it can even be used on children from the age of three.
Buy now
Best cica body cream
Mixa Cica Repair Body Lotion Pump Bottle
Cica is an ingredient which really comes into its own in body products. Skin on the body can easily become rough and dry, and also tends to be the most common area to go neglected. Mixa's formula for extra dry skin will soothe even the sorest of chapped limbs.
Buy now
Best cica CC cream
Erborian CC Cream SPF 25, Space NK
This popular bestseller works as a moisturiser, primer, and base, making it a great investment. Infused with centella asiatica, it is the perfect skincare meets makeup hybrid for all skin types.
Buy now
Best cica cleanser
Kiehl's Centella Sensitive Facial Cleanser, John Lewis
The dreamiest creamy gel cleanser, Kiehl's cica-infused product effectively cleans, while being gentle enough to use on sensitive skin types or those that are suffering from extreme dryness. It also lasts a really long time, and has the easiest lid for the perfect sized application, every time.
Buy Now
Want more cica options? Take a look at these other brilliant infused products...
The perfect accompaniment to the La Roche Posay Cicaplast lip balm, this all over baume is a dream for eczema sufferers, and can be used on the face as well as the body.
As well as Centella Asiatica, this formulation contains vitamin C and green tea to give skin an antioxidant super boost. A rich paste, this is designed to be used before bed time to sink in overnight, so that you wake up to calmer, brighter skin.
Due to its rich texture, this is best used to soothe as a targeted treatment on dry, flaky skin, rather than an all over face cream.
-
Anne Hathaway had to kiss 10 men during a 'gross' chemistry audition early in her careerUgh
-
There was a hidden code in Baby Reindeer that everyone completely missedDid you spot it?
-
I'm a Health Editor who's tried 100's of shoes - these are officially the best gym trainers you can buyFor running, weight training, walking, and more.
