Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica): what it is in skincare
A calming plant extract that helps soothe and hydrate skin while supporting a comfortable, balanced feel.
What it does
Function: soothing / humectant. Humectants draw water into the upper layers of skin, the backbone of K-beauty "dewy" hydration. They work best sandwiched under an emollient or occlusive that locks the water in.
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How to spot it on a label
On a Korean product's INCI list, look for Centella Asiatica Extract (Cica). Ingredients are listed high-to-low by amount, so its position hints at how much is in the formula. See all humectants →
Explore more K-beauty guides →🙋 People also ask
What is cica or centella in skincare?
Cica is short for Centella asiatica, a plant also called tiger grass and widely used in Korean skincare to soothe the look of redness and support a comfortable, resilient barrier. It's a go-to for sensitive, stressed or breakout-prone skin in calming creams and serums.
What does cica mean in Korean skincare?
Cica is shorthand for Centella asiatica, a botanical used across Korean soothing products. Cica formulas are aimed at the look of redness, irritation and a stressed barrier.
Related
Glycerin (Glycerol)Sodium HyaluronateHyaluronic AcidHydrolyzed Hyaluronic AcidSodium Hyaluronate CrosspolymerAcetylated Sodium Hyaluronate (Super HA)✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed: 2026-08-08.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.