Ingredient Spotlight: Centella Asiatica
How to add this soothing, ancient natural herb to your skincare routine.
Published:
2 minute read
Centella asiatica — also known as cica or tiger grass — is a powerhouse skincare ingredient renowned for its calming, hydrating properties and backed by centuries of traditional use. In modern skincare, it’s become a go-to for anyone looking to soothe, protect, and strengthen their skin barrier.
Fast Facts: Centella asiatica
- Also known as: Cica, Tiger Grass
- Main benefits: Soothes irritation, hydrates, supports the skin’s barrier
- Best for: All skin types, including sensitive, dry, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin
- Common formats: Serums, creams, toners
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What is centella asiatica?
Centella asiatica is a perennial herb prized in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, especially for its skin-healing and soothing properties. In fact, clinical studies suggest that key compounds naturally found in Centella — including madecassoside and asiaticoside — help calm irritation, support collagen production, and reinforce the skin’s natural barrier, making it one of today’s most trusted ingredients for stressed or compromised skin.
Benefits of centella asiatica for skin
Centella asiatica delivers multiple skin benefits, making it a versatile ingredient for many skin types. Research indicates it can:
- Soothe irritation: Helps minimize visible redness and calm skin after exfoliants or retinoids — particularly beneficial for acne-prone or rosacea-prone skin.
- Hydrate and protect: Supports the skin barrier to maintain moisture and resilience.
- Support healing: Aids in skin recovery after breakouts or environmental stress.
- Defend against stress: Provides antioxidant protection that helps limit damage from free radicals.
How to use centella asiatica in your routine
Apply Centella products after your treatment steps to help rebalance and soothe the skin. For hydration and barrier support, pair it with a lightweight moisturizer like SLMD Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer to lock in hydration and calm any lingering irritation. During the day, always finish with sunscreen to protect your skin.
Dr. Pimple Popper's Centella Asiatica Picks
Who should use centella asiatica?
Centella is ideal for sensitive, dry, acne-prone, or rosacea-prone skin, but its benefits extend to nearly everyone. If your skin experiences dryness, irritation from active ingredients, or environmental stress, Centella helps soothe without feeling heavy or greasy.
Tips for choosing a centella product
For the best results:
- Choose fragrance-free formulas if your skin is reactive.
- Opt for gels, creams or serums that combine Centella with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
- Always patch-test first if you have highly sensitive skin.
FAQs: Centella asiatica
Q: What skin types benefit most from Centella asiatica?
A: Centella asiatica works well for almost everyone. It’s gentle enough for sensitive, acne-prone, or rosacea-prone skin — but even normal and combination skin can benefit from its hydrating, barrier-supporting boost.
Q: Can I use cica every day?
A: Yes — its soothing and hydrating properties make it safe for daily use.
Q: How does Centella compare to other soothing ingredients?
A: While many soothing ingredients simply calm irritation, centella also offers antioxidant protection and supports the skin barrier — so it helps with both immediate comfort and long-term skin health.
Dr. Lee's Last Word
Centella asiatica has been used for centuries to soothe and protect the skin — and today, we know it helps support a strong, healthy barrier for calm, resilient skin.
