Written by Dhatri
Grooving to BTS and binge-watching K dramas have been popular these days. Often, admiration for K-pop stems from the performers' bright, shiny, and spotless skin rather than the story or music.
Everyone dreams of having such beautiful skin and is ready to use any skin care product to achieve it. Many might be wondering about the secret of K-beauty products. A big thanks to pop culture for introducing their k-beauty products to us. There is one skincare ingredient that stands out among the vast collection of K-beauty products.
Cica (Centella Asiatica) is the one wonder ingredient present in most of their beauty products. This ingredient in their skincare routine aids in calming irritation and redness. Koreans have sensitive skin that gets easily irritated by pollution, and this skincare helps keep their skin beautiful. People with sensitive skin would be worried as there are fewer product choices left for them. Fortunately, this great ingredient is now available to you. In addition, it is incredibly moisturizing for dry skin types.
Here is more information about the surprise ingredient, "cica."
What is CICA?
Centella Asiatica, or cica, is a medicinal herb found throughout the tropical parts of Asia. It is a Chinese medicine that has been used for thousands of years for its healing properties. Cica has been used to treat wounds, incisions, and burns, demonstrating just how powerful it really is. As a matter of fact, it is said that tigers rub their wounds on Asian plants to heal them. It is also called Gotu kola, or tiger grass.
Cica is currently the most in-demand skincare ingredient and is found in cleansers, face masks, and moisturizers.
How does it work?
Cica works on soothing and repairing inflamed skin. It is rich in amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins A, B, and C. All these nutrients and acids help boost collagen, which is ideal for treating acne and calming irritated skin. Cica helps in cellular repair and boosts circulation and blood flow. The most effective way to reap the benefits of cica is to use cica-containing products such as serums, moisturizers, and night face masks.
Cica's Advantages
Fighting against signs of ageing
Its vitamin and amino acid content stimulates the production of collagen, which has anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, since cica produces collagen, it protects the skin against pollution damage, which causes premature ageing. The antioxidant in cica improves blood circulation, which gives firm skin and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
It moisturizes the skin
The fatty acids, beta-carotene, and other nutrients help to retain the moisture and oil levels. As a result, the skin appears young, soft, and dewy. Moisturizing the skin in the right proportion creates a barrier that protects the outer layers.
Reduces redness and inflammation
Cica contains Asiatic sides that have soothing properties. So, it soothes all skin irritations like redness, inflammation, and itchy skin. Soothing properties make it a remarkable ingredient for sensitive skin.
Ideal for acne-prone skin
The anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties of cica make it the perfect ingredient for people who suffer from breakouts. It also speeds up the healing process and reduces the appearance of scars, giving you bright, flawless skin.
Bottom line:
Cica is a wonder ingredient with umpteen beneficial properties. Cica is very safe to use, and people of all skin types can use it. Products with cica can be used every day, either in the morning or evening. Discover what works best for your skin type, and you'll have healthy skin.
Sources:
“Centella Asiatica in Cosmetology - PMC.” PubMed Central (PMC), www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 1 Feb. 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3834700/.
“In Vitro and In Vivo Wound Healing Studies of Methanolic Fraction of Centella Asiatica Extract - ScienceDirect.” In Vitro and In Vivo Wound Healing Studies of Methanolic Fraction of Centella Asiatica Extract - ScienceDirect, www.sciencedirect.com, 26 Oct. 2016, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0254629916302617?via%3Dihub.
Bylka, Wiesława, et al. “Review Paper Centella Asiatica in Cosmetology.” Review Paper Centella Asiatica in Cosmetology, www.termedia.pl, 20 Feb. 2013, https://www.termedia.pl/Review-paper-Centella-asiatica-in-cosmetology,7,20289,0,1.html.