# Centella asiatica (cica)

> Source: https://thecastindex.com/beauty/ingredients/centella-asiatica — updated 2026-09-25

Centella asiatica, often shortened to “cica”, is a plant extract widely used in Korean skincare to soothe and calm skin. Its active compounds, such as madecassoside and asiaticoside, are studied for wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties, and cosmetic formulas use it to comfort stressed or irritated-feeling skin.

- Also on labels as: Cica, Gotu kola, Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Tiger grass
- Type: Botanical

## What it does

- Soothes the feel of irritated or stressed skin
- Supports barrier comfort in lightweight formulas
- Common in K-beauty sunscreens, serums and toners

## Who it suits

Sensitive, redness-prone and combination skin, and anyone looking for a calming step.

## How to use it

1. Use morning or evening as directed
2. Works in toners, serums and sunscreens alike

## Take care

- Plant extracts can occasionally cause allergy — patch test if you react to botanicals

## What it pairs with

Pairs well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and sunscreen.

## Products in the catalogue that list it

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum](https://thecastindex.com/beauty/skin1004-madagascar-centella-hyalu-cica-water-fit-sun-serum)
- [Beauty of Joseon Light On Serum: Centella + Vita C](https://thecastindex.com/beauty/beauty-of-joseon-light-on-serum-centella-vita-c)
- [Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner](https://thecastindex.com/beauty/anua-heartleaf-77-soothing-toner)

## Questions

### What does cica do for skin?

Cica (Centella asiatica) is used to soothe and calm skin. Research on its compounds focuses on wound healing and inflammation; cosmetic claims are usually about comfort and calm.

### Is centella good for sensitive skin?

It is popular for sensitive skin, but as a plant extract it can still cause an allergy in some people — patch test first.

## Sources

- [Bylka et al., “Centella asiatica in cosmetology”, Postępy Dermatologii i Alergologii, 2013](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3834700/)

General information, not medical advice.