Cica Extract
INCI: Centella Asiatica Extract
Centella asiatica — often labeled cica — calms irritation and supports the skin's own repair process, which is why it shows up so often paired with stronger actives: it's there to offset what the retinoid or acid is doing, not to treat a concern on its own.
How it works
A botanical extract rich in triterpenoid saponins that reinforces the extracellular matrix and stimulates type I collagen synthesis. It downregulates proinflammatory cytokines like IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha, rapidly extinguishing localized neurogenic inflammation and reinforcing thin skin structures.
In practice, that's why it shows up on the ingredient list of so many products that also contain a retinoid or acid — it's there as insurance, not the headline active.
How to introduce it
Wait about 2 minutes before the next step. Judging Cica Extract before week 4 means judging it before it's had time to actually work — most of what reads as "this isn't doing anything" in the first couple of weeks is just too early to tell.
- No restrictions — safe to combine with every other class.
Who should be careful
Cica Extract's safety rating is the lowest tier tracked here — well tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin, without a slow introduction.
Common in these product forms
Among the products Skinzy tracks in India that contain Cica Extract, it most often shows up as a serum, a cleanser or a moisturizer.
Questions people ask
A calming, barrier-supporting extract — usually paired with a stronger active to offset irritation, not used to treat a concern alone.
Most people see a fair result around 4 weeks of consistent use — judging earlier usually means judging too soon.
Either — Cica Extract works in both a morning and an evening routine.
Research
Selected studies and reviews on Cica Extract. Each link opens the abstract on PubMed. This is background reading, not a substitute for advice from a dermatologist.
- Centella asiatica in cosmetology.Bylka W et al. Postepy Dermatol Alergol, 2013 · PMID 24278045