Soother
Centella Asiatica
Also: Cica · Tiger Grass
A K-beauty staple for calming reactive, broken-out, or inflamed skin. Centuries of traditional use, validated by modern research.
What it is
A perennial herb native to South Asia. Used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Its active triterpene compounds (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) are responsible for the wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effects modern dermatology has confirmed.
How it works
Stimulates collagen synthesis, reduces inflammatory cytokine activity, and supports skin barrier integrity. The Korean 'cica cream' category is built almost entirely on this plant.
Who it is for
Reactive skin. Active acne. Post-procedure (laser, peels). Compromised barrier. Anyone whose skin flares more easily than it used to.
What to watch for
Look for the standardised extract or named actives on the INCI, not just 'Centella Asiatica Extract' — the latter could be a token amount.
Found in