Ingredient guide

Centella asiatica (cica): what it does and how to use it

Updated November 2026

Safety first: general cosmetic information, not medical advice. Patch-test new products and follow label directions. Pregnant, breastfeeding, using prescription skin treatment or managing a skin condition? Ask your doctor before trying new actives. Medical disclaimer
In short: A traditional botanical extract that soothes, hydrates and supports barrier repair. Best used morning or night. Top benefit: calms redness and irritation.

A traditional botanical extract that soothes, hydrates and supports barrier repair.

Best timeMorning or night
StrengthGentle
Good forCalms redness and irritation

Benefits

Who it's for

Sensitive, irritated and redness-prone skin.

How to use it

Use morning and night as a serum or cream.

Watch out for

Rare allergies exist. Patch test like any new product.

Best centella (cica) products

Serum$
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule

Watery centella serum that soothes and hydrates stressed skin.

Check price on Amazon →
Serum$$$
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Serum

Centella-based serum that visibly soothes redness.

Check price on Amazon →
Night treatment$$$
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Sleepair Mask

Calms and comforts skin overnight.

Check price on Amazon →

Can you mix centella (cica) with…

✅RetinolYes, a soothing pair✅Vitamin CYes, generally fine together✅NiacinamideYes, generally fine together✅AHAsYes, generally fine together✅Salicylic acidYes, generally fine together✅Benzoyl peroxideYes, generally fine together✅Hyaluronic acidYes, generally fine together✅Azelaic acidYes, generally fine together✅PeptidesYes, generally fine together✅CeramidesYes, generally fine together✅SunscreenYes, generally fine together✅Tranexamic acidYes, generally fine together✅BakuchiolYes, generally fine together✅SqualaneYes, generally fine together

Routines that use centella (cica)

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FAQ

What does centella (cica) do for skin?

A traditional botanical extract that soothes, hydrates and supports barrier repair.

When should I use centella (cica), morning or night?

Use morning and night as a serum or cream.

Who should use centella (cica)?

Sensitive, irritated and redness-prone skin.

This page is general cosmetic information for educational purposes. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and it doesn't replace a dermatologist or other qualified professional. Product formulas change, so always read the label. Full medical disclaimer.