Ingredient decoded

Centella asiatica

A plant extract often called cica. Small topical studies have explored hydration and soothing effects, but different centella extracts and finished formulas are not interchangeable.

Botanical extract

Black line drawing of Centella asiatica leaf sprig — Centella asiatica · source plant illustration
Reference

First things first: what is it?

Centella asiatica is a plant. Its extract contains multiple compounds, rather than one single active molecule.

What does it do?

Hydration and soothing research

A four-week study in 25 volunteers found hydration and irritation-model benefits with specific centella-containing formulations.

Science or just a good story?

The trial tested 2.5% and 5% extracts on forearms. It cannot establish the same results for every cica serum or for a skin disease.

Spot it on the label

Look for Centella Asiatica Extract.
Madecassoside and asiaticoside are individual centella compounds, not exact aliases for the whole extract.

So, is it a useful ingredient?

There is some human research behind cica. Its name alone does not show the strength or effect of a particular product.

Centella asiatica

First things first: what is it?

What does it do?

Hydration and soothing research

Science or just a good story?

Spot it on the label

So, is it a useful ingredient?

Common product types

serum

sunscreen

Related skin concerns

dryness

Related product profiles

Glow Serum: Propolis + Niacinamide

Calming Barrier Serum

Madagascar Centella Ampoule

Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++

Sources