Luxiface Ingredient Intelligence

Centella / Cica

Centella, commonly called cica, is widely used in Korean skincare for soothing and barrier-support routines.

Also known as: Centella Asiatica, Cica, Tiger Grass

Soothing & Barrier Evidence: Established

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Ingredient overview

What is Centella / Cica?

Centella asiatica is a botanical widely used in Korean skincare and commonly marketed as cica or tiger grass. Its extracts contain triterpenoid compounds including madecassoside, asiaticoside and related acids, although the amount of each compound varies by extract and processing method.

Centella has a long history of topical research around wound healing and skin repair, with laboratory and clinical evidence supporting anti-inflammatory and skin-conditioning potential. Cosmetic formulas use it mainly for soothing and barrier-support positioning, but the performance of a cica product depends on extract quality, concentration and the rest of the formula.

At a glance

Why it is used

SoothingBarrier supportComfort

Often chosen for

Common concerns

SensitivityRedness appearanceBarrier stress

Skin types

DryNormalOilyCombinationSensitive

Routine role

SoothingBarrier supportTreatment

Routine guidance

How to use it

Centella can be used morning or evening in toners, ampoules, serums, creams and masks, especially when a routine is focused on comfort or barrier support.

Pairing guidance

Routine compatibility

Centella is broadly compatible with panthenol, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, retinoids and exfoliating acids.

Formula context matters

Good to know

Different Centella extracts are not chemically identical. A product labelled cica may contain whole-plant extract, purified triterpenes or both, so judge the finished formula rather than the name alone.

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Relevant Luxiface routines

See complete routines where this ingredient fits alongside compatible steps.

K-Beauty Beginner Daily Essentials Routine€66,95View routine →

Korean Body Acne Routine for Back Acne & Chest Acne€70,95View routine →

Korean Gentle Sun Recovery and Barrier Trio€58,95View routine →

Korean Men’s Skincare Starter Routine€77,95View routine →

Korean Moderate Acne and Pore Balancing Trio€45,95View routine →

Korean Moderate Dehydrated Skin Complete Routine€104,95View routine →

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Related ingredients

Madecassoside Asiaticoside Panthenol Ceramides

Ingredient information is educational. Product suitability depends on the complete formulation, concentration, how it is used and your individual skin.

Sources & further reading

These references support the ingredient overview. Performance and suitability still depend on the finished product, concentration and how it is used.