Not a week passes that another skincare ingredient buzzword starts to trend, but one we’re hearing a lot about recently is cica. While it’s been used in traditional medicine for centuries, thanks to the K-beauty movement, people have been catching on to its multiple skincare benefits and it’s becoming increasingly popular.
One such brand to harness the power of cica is K-beauty staple, Dr Jart+, whose bestselling Cicapair range is designed to target redness and sensitivity, and help heal damaged or irritated skin.
Keep on reading to learn all about cica and the Dr Jart+ Cicapair range.
What is cica?
Derived from a plant found in tropical areas of Asia and Southern Africa, cica is scientifically known as centella asiatica and is sometimes called ‘tiger grass’ (in Asia, tigers rub their wounds on the plant to help their skin heal).
How does it work?
Cica is packed full of amino acids, fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins A, B, and C. These work together to stimulate collagen production, strengthen skin’s defense against bacteria, improve hydration, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Why should I use it?
Cica calms inflammation, redness, and irritation, and is able to trigger the repair and healing process of cuts and burns. It’s a beneficial ingredient if you’re looking to soothe, repair, or strengthen your skin, combat breakouts, or decrease your skin’s sensitivity.
There are also claims that cica can help to prevent the appearance of the early signs of aging (loose skin and wrinkles) by protecting it from pollution, and if dryness and dullness are your skincare concerns, cica is here for those too. It boosts circulation and blood flow to the skin, which in turn increases hydration in the top layer of skin, preventing moisture loss and boosting cellular repair so skin appears brighter.
When should I use it?
You’ll notice cica pops up in everything from cleansers to masks, but it performs best when used in products that are left on the skin, like serums and moisturisers. Since it’s ideal for sensitive skin, it’s gentle enough to use daily, day and/or night.
This overnight mask serves as a fast-acting solution against flare-ups. If you can feel breakouts lurking, have patches of dryness, or have experienced a bad reaction to a product, this will work its magic while you sleep. Swipe the lightweight, gel formula onto clean skin in place of your usual evening routine. When you wake up, skin will look and feel much calmer.
Not only does this silky serum quell inflammation and irritation, but it features a subtle tint which helps to cancel out and tone down redness. A kinder alternative to skin than a full face of makeup, it’s perfect for simultaneously concealing and treating breakouts and flare ups without worrying about triggering more.
For days when your skin feels too itchy and irritated to apply products to it, try this instant refresher. The cooling spray will provide instant relief and hydrate your skin while calming it. It’ll reverse any damage caused by redness and dryness, and with continuous use, you’ll notice your skin will be smoother, brighter, and clearer.
