Last Updated: July 28, 2025 By Ggot-song Kim, a Seoul-based K-lifestyle expert and avid K-Pop fan. She combines her professional beauty knowledge with a deep understanding of idol culture to bring you the most authentic tips.
To answer the question “what is cica,” we need to look at this miracle herb.
If you’ve spent any time exploring K-Beauty, you’ve seen one ingredient everywhere: Cica. But what is it? Also known as Centella Asiatica, this traditional medicinal herb has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine to treat and heal the skin. It’s famously called “Tiger Grass” because legend has it that tigers would roll in the plant to heal their wounds. This power of natural healing is why Cica has become the undisputed king of calming ingredients in modern Korean skincare.
From a traditional remedy, Cica has now become a global skincare trend, especially popular for those with sensitive and troubled skin. Let’s dive into the science and secrets behind this miracle herb.
Ggot-song’s Expert Analysis: My Personal Cica Story
I can personally attest to the power of Cica. There was a time when my skin completely flipped out due to stress, becoming red and severely irritated. A Cica cream was my savior. It dramatically calmed my skin down and made my skin barrier feel stronger and more resilient. The effects were most powerful when I used a product rich in Madecassoside.
The Science of Cica: A Quick Guide to Its Power Compounds
Madecassoside: The star player for soothing and reducing inflammation.
Asiatic Acid: Helps to strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Madecassic Acid: Boosts collagen production to improve skin elasticity.
Ggot-song’s Pro-Tips for Using Cica
It’s for All Skin Types: While Cica is a hero for sensitive skin, it’s beneficial for everyone. It can provide soothing effects for oily, dry, and combination skin alike.
Layer for Maximum Effect: To maximize the calming benefits, try layering. Use a Cica toner to prep the skin, followed by a Cica serum or cream.
Use It Before Bed: Your skin regenerates most while you sleep. Applying a Cica cream at night is highly effective.
Ggot-song’s Holy Grail K-Beauty Cica Product: Dr.G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream
This cream is the definition of a perfect Cica product in K-Beauty. It’s a rescue cream that combines a high concentration of TECA (a potent Centella Asiatica extract) with 5-Ceramides to both soothe the skin and rebuild its barrier. It’s a go-to for anyone with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Global Cica Favorites
Cica’s popularity isn’t limited to Korea! Here are a couple of globally famous Cica products that are also fantastic:
- La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 (France): A multi-purpose balm with Panthenol and Cica, perfect for troubled and sensitive skin.
- Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream (Korea/Global): A cult favorite that uses Madecassoside and Green Tea extract to soothe and moisturize.
P.S. Cica creams are a perfect final step in a soothing routine. Learn more about building a full routine in our Ultimate Guide to the 10-Step Korean Skincare!
[…] pimples pop up, the Dr.G Red Blemish Serum is the first thing I reach for. The TECA (a high-quality Centella Asiatica extract) calms inflammation in just 2-3 days. What I love most is the watery-light texture that absorbs […]
[…] it’s a must-buy: This cream is a legendary soothing solution in Korea. Formulated with 5-Cica Complex and Ceramides, it’s a rescue cream that helps calm irritated skin and strengthen the skin […]