Cica skincare: the K-beauty-inspired import that’s here to stay

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Want more cica options? Take a look at these other brilliant infused products...