Centella Asiatica Skincare

Why Centella Asiatica has cult status in skincare

Centella Asiatica has earned its place in the K-beauty hall of fame. Also known as cica, tiger grass or gotu kola, the botanical is widely used in Korean skincare formulas created to soothe, hydrate and support the skin barrier. You'll find it in everything from lightweight serums and ampoules to nourishing moisturisers and masks.

Its skin-loving reputation comes from naturally occurring compounds including madecassoside and asiaticoside. The result? Centella skincare is an especially popular choice when your complexion is feeling dry, sensitive or simply in need of some TLC. Discover more formulas for sensitive skin or explore our full Korean skincare edit.

What does Centella Asiatica do for skin?

Centella Asiatica is best known for its soothing and hydrating properties. In skincare, it's commonly used to help keep the complexion feeling comfortable while supporting a healthy-looking skin barrier, making cica formulas a go-to when skin feels dry, stressed or prone to visible redness.

For a routine built around hydration, try pairing Centella with hyaluronic acid. Looking to balance hydration with brightening benefits? Niacinamide skincare is another popular pairing.

How do you use Centella Asiatica in your skincare routine?

The beauty of Centella is its versatility. Depending on the formula, it can appear in cleansers, toners, serums, ampoules, moisturisers and masks. For a typical routine, apply lighter Centella treatments after cleansing and toning, then follow with moisturiser and SPF during the day.

If targeted treatments are more your thing, discover our edit of Korean skincare ampoules, including formulas powered by some of K-beauty's most talked-about ingredients.

Is cica the same as Centella Asiatica?

You'll often see the words cica and Centella used interchangeably in skincare. Cica commonly refers to Centella Asiatica or ingredients derived from the plant, so a product described as a cica cream or cica serum may feature Centella extract, madecassoside or other Centella-derived compounds. Check each product's ingredient list to see exactly what's inside.

Is Centella Asiatica good for sensitive skin?

Centella is frequently found in formulas created with sensitive-feeling skin in mind thanks to its soothing reputation. As with any new addition to your routine, the complete formula matters, so always check the ingredients and product directions for your individual skin needs. You can also explore our redness skincare selection for more complexion-calming options.