What Is Cica in Skincare? Benefits and Uses Explained
If you’ve been looking for a skincare ingredient that’s soothing, healthy, and gentle, chances are you’ve heard of Cica—or Centella Asiatica. This powerhouse herb has been a staple in K-beauty for years, and it’s no wonder why. From calming irritation to supporting the skin barrier, Cica does it all. But what exactly is it, and how can it work wonders for your skin?
At Banila Co, we’re passionate about skincare that makes you feel good inside and out. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the calming world of Cica—what it is, how it works, and how your skin can benefit from it. Whether you’re new to this healing herb or already a fan, this guide will help you make the most of Cica in your daily routine.
In This Article
- What Is Cica in Skincare? Discover the Soothing Power of Centella Asiatica
- Top 5 Skin Benefits of Cica
- Is Cica Good for Your Skin Type?
- How to Use Cica in Your Skincare Routine
- Best Cica Skincare Products from Banila Co
- Summary: Why Your Skin Will Love Cica Skincare
What Is Cica in Skincare? Discover the Soothing Power of Centella Asiatica
Cica—short for Centella Asiatica—is a leafy green herb that’s been treasured in traditional Korean and Chinese medicine for centuries. Also known as Gotu Kola, Indian Pennywort, or Tiger Grass, this soothing plant earned its nickname when people noticed that tigers were known to use its leaves for natural comfort. That skin-calming reputation has stood the test of time, and today, Cica is a go-to ingredient in Korean skincare for calming redness and supporting the skin barrier.
The magic lies in its active compounds—asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid—which are rich in antioxidants and help improve the skin’s natural firmness, calm irritation, and help improve the appearance of skin. You’ll often spot these listed individually in ingredient lists, especially in formulas designed for sensitive, irritated, or unbalanced skin.
At Banila Co, we’ve taken this time-tested botanical and combined it with modern science to deliver gentle, effective products that bring out your skin’s natural glow—without overwhelming it.
Top 5 Skin Benefits of Cica
Cica isn’t just a trendy K-beauty buzzword—it’s a true multitasker your skin will thank you for. Whether you’re dealing with skin imperfections, sensitivity, or dryness, here are five reasons to love this calming herb:
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Soothes redness and irritation
Cica is famous for calming reactive, stressed-out skin, making it ideal for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin. -
Supports the skin’s natural barrier
Rich in antioxidants and triterpenoids, Cica helps reinforce your skin’s natural barrier so it stays resilient, even in harsh weather or during seasonal changes. -
Helps improve the appearance of skin
Thanks to compounds like Madecassoside and Asiaticoside, Cica helps support the appearance of healthier-looking skin —perfect after skin imperfections, sun exposure, or skincare solutions. -
Hydrates and locks in moisture
This herb is a hidden hydration hero. It helps your skin retain moisture, which is why it’s loved by those with sensitive or dehydrated skin. -
Helps improve skin’s natural firmness and improves skin elasticity
The four active compounds of Cica stimulate help support collagen production, promote healthy connective tissue, and reduce oxidative stress. The result? Skin that appears firmer, plumper, and more youthful over time.
Improving the appearance of blemish-prone skin, Cica delivers powerful benefits in the gentlest way possible.
Is Cica Good for Your Skin Type?
Absolutely. Cica is one of those rare ingredients that supports almost every skin type. If your skin ever feels out of balance, Cica might be the peacekeeper it’s looking for. Its calming and skin-supporting benefits help your skin function at its best, no matter your skin type:
- Sensitive skin: Soothes redness and irritation with its naturally calming effects
- Oily or unbalanced skin: Helps regulate visible oiliness and helps soothe visible redness and irritation without disrupting your skin's natural balance
- Dry skin: Supports hydration and comfort by supporting the skin’s natural barrier and reducing moisture loss
- Combination skin: Balances where needed—softening dry areas while supporting clarity in oilier zones
- Mature skin: Helps support collagen production and helps improve skin elasticity for a smoother, firmer looking appearance
Whether your skin is visibly irritated, feeling parched, or showing signs of aging, Cica meets it with gentle support exactly where it's needed.
How to Use Cica in Your Skincare Routine
Cica is incredibly versatile and gentle, making it easy to incorporate into your routine. You can find it in everything from cleansers to toners, serums, moisturizers, and even sunscreens. It’s known for being non-irritating, so feel free to layer multiple Cica products daily.
Morning Routine
In the morning, use a Cica toner or serum to soothe and support your skin’s natural barrier before heading out into the sun. Some sunscreens also contain Cica for added calming benefits.
Evening Routine
At night, opt for a Cica ampoule, cream or a sleep mask to help support the skin’s natural renewal process and soothe irritation.
Pro Tip:
Cica pairs well with other calming ingredients like Niacinamide and Panthenol, enhancing its soothing effects for a balanced, effective routine.
Best Cica Skincare Products from Banila Co
If your skin is feeling stressed, sensitive, or just in need of some extra love, we’ve got you covered. Our Cica-infused essentials are designed to soothe, hydrate, and nourish—morning and night.
Clean It Zero Calming Cleansing Balm
A gentle first step in your routine—perfect for all skin types, especially sensitive ones.
Why we love it:
- Melts away waterproof makeup and daily buildup
- Our Cica-Relief™ blend calms irritation while cleansing
- Powered by ZERO BALANCE TECHNOLOGY™ to deeply cleanse without stripping your skin
- Infused with 7 soothing herbs, Hot Springs Water, Vitamin C & E, and Centella Asiatica extract
How to use it:
Use as the first step in your evening routine—or even in the morning if your skin feels congested. Massage onto dry skin, add water to emulsify, and rinse.
Overnight Soothing Cica Sleep Mask
Your nightly dose of calm for skin that feels tired, tight, or reactive.
Why we love it:
- Packed with 76% Centella Asiatica Leaf Water to soothe and strengthen
- Formulated with Panthenol for deep, lasting hydration
- Helps improve skin texture while you sleep
- Lightweight gel-cream formula that won’t clog pores
How to use it:
Apply as the final step of your nighttime routine. No need to rinse—just drift off and let it do the work.
Summary: Why Your Skin Will Love Cica Skincare
Whether your skin is feeling irritated, dry, or just in need of some extra care, Centella Asiatica (Cica) offers the gentle support it craves. Loved for centuries and now a K-beauty favorite, this botanical powerhouse helps calm, hydrate, and restore balance—day or night. Think of it as your skin’s natural comfort blanket.
Ready to give your skin the love it deserves?
Explore our soothing, barrier-supporting range and find your perfect Cica-powered match at Banila Co. From cleansing balm to overnight mask, we’ve packed this calming ingredient into formulas that work for every skin type—especially when your complexion needs a little extra TLC.
Your skin’s calm, hydrated glow starts here.
