So What Exactly is Centella? 🌿

Annyeong Beauties!

If you have sensitive skin, you have probably come across this ingredient that almost all K-Beauty products have: CENTELLA ASIATICA. This particular ingredient is known by many names such as, Cica, Gotu Kola, Indian pennywort or Tiger grass.

* Fun fact: did you know tigers roll around in this plant to heal their wounds?😲🐅

This oriental herb has been used for centuries in both traditional Chinese and Indian medicine and it looks like this:

It’s a natural acne-fighting ingredient that soothes inflammation, repairs skin and prevents scarring without causing flakiness like many topical acne medications that use Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide.There are four triterpenoids of Centella that have been analysed to show skin care benefits. They are Asiatic acid, Madecassic acid, Asiaticoside and Madecassoside. Being rich in an assortment of phytochemicals, centella is an effective ingredient that has been found to calm inflammation whilst giving a brightening effect on skin, build collagen, improve circulation and stimulate new cell renewal.

You may find they are sometimes included in a product alone in pure form, or in combination as “Centella Asiatica extract”.

Product recommendations:

NEOGEN Real Cica Micellar Cleansing Foam

This foam cleanser is perfect for those who have dry, sensitive skin that is prone to redness! It has a pH level of 5.5-6.5 giving it a mild, gentle finish for a dewy and smooth skin look. It's also suitable for Beauties that have rosacea, since the main ingredient in this is Centella Asiatica extract combined with Madecassoside. 🌿

Innisfree Bija Cica Balm

The Innisfree Bija Cica Balm is suitable for all skin types but, it's particularly beneficial for sensitive and acne prone skin. The word ‘balm’ may put you off thinking it might be too heavy for your skin, but surprisingly it is lightweight, non sticky and very soothing once it's on the skin. It’s free from parabens, sulfates, alcohol and is cruelty free! 🙌🏻

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum

If you are suffering from acne marks, acne all over the face, redness, general irritation, or simply in need of a good fast-acting calming serum that soothes skin sensitivity, this serum should be your number one choice. The texture of the serum has quite a watery consistency, it's super lightweight and has a nice herbal scent. 🍀

I hope I’ve cut down some of your options in choosing the right products for you :)

Let me know your thoughts on these products!

Till then, stay home, stay safe and stay beautiful as always 💖