Cica or Centella Asiatica or Gotu kola is a plant-based ingredient that has been used traditionally over the years. Its medicinal properties have been used for years in healing, reducing inflammation, and easing skin irritation. Cica has been a buzz ingredient in the skincare industry for the past few years and many dermatologists' favourite ingredients when it comes to damaged skin barrier concerns.
What does Cica contain?
Cica is like an antioxidant to the skin renewal system which not only helps skin to renew itself but to repair most of the free radical damage that has been done to the skin. It contains ingredients like flavonoids and asiaticoside which help settle any skin irritation and inflammation that happens as a result of barrier damage to the skin in conditions like psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, and acne vulgaris.
So as we know when the skin barrier is damaged the skin tends to become dry, flaky, sensitive, and saggy at the same time, this is where Cica helps strengthen the skin barrier and helps in hydrating the skin & resolve most of the skin issues to the deepest of layers thus providing not only repair but anti-ageing benefits to the skin.
Cica is rich in triterpenoid saponins which can help induce collagen production thereby reducing fine lines and wrinkles and adding firmness to the skin structure internally.
Why should CICA be a part of your skincare routine?
- Cica has anti-inflammatory properties which help in conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, acne flare-ups, and eczema
- It has antioxidant properties preventing free radical damage
- Helps in collagen induction which helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles
- Strengthens skin barrier system
- Protects from environmental damage
- Helps with the reversal of conditions like hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and melasma-like conditions
Cica can be used in the form of creams, serums, masks, and cleansers for all skin types acne prone, dry, ageing skin, and sensitive as a part of a regular skincare regimen. Cica has really helped many patients settle down their angry skin over 1-2 months when done with the right grade of skincare products. Cica can be beneficial in the lowest of concentrations too when it comes to its anti-inflammatory action.
Patients who have conditions like rosacea and sunburn have benefited and seen positive results after using Cica in their skincare regimen. We are yet to explore more such benefits to Cica and many more to come. Cica has calming and soothing effects which help the skin to settle any fungal and bacterial activity on the skin. If you have been dealing with any skin condition where the barrier looks compromised then Cica is the go-to ingredient. Cica is not only for acne-prone and sensitive skin but also for all skin types.
Conclusion: Cica can be used for all skin types but works great in the case of acne-prone, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis-like conditions. Cica is generally safe for everyone but it is only recommended when you have any pre-existing skin concerns. Make sure to consult your dermatologist and get a prescription-based skincare regimen in case of any severe. Cica can be a great addition to your skincare basket and serve you the best results.
