What Is Centella Asiatica & Why Is Everyone Obsessed With It?
- Subha Punj
- Mar 14
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is everyone slathering their face with something called Centella?”—welcome to the club. Centella Asiatica, also known as “Cica” (we’ll explain that later), is a plant extract that’s basically like therapy for your skin—soothing, repairing, and telling your face to calm the heck down.
It’s been used for centuries in traditional medicine, but now, skincare brands are throwing it into everything because of its healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. If your skin gets red faster than you do in an argument, Centella might just be your new best friend.
Centella Asiatica's Skincare Superpowers (Backed by Science, Not Just Hype)
🌿 Soothes Redness & Irritation – Perfect for sensitive, inflamed, or acne-prone skin.
💦 Boosts Hydration – Helps lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier.
🛠 Speeds Up Healing – Studies show it helps with wound healing and post-acne scars.
🧴 Anti-Aging Benefits – Rich in antioxidants that help fight environmental damage.
🔬 Pore-Friendly – Helps regulate oil production without clogging your skin.
A 2018 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Centella extract significantly improved wound healing, while a 2020 study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences confirmed its anti-inflammatory benefits.
How to Use Centella in Your Skincare Routine
Centella is versatile and can be used in multiple ways, depending on your skin type and concerns. Here’s how to incorporate it into your routine:
1. As a Serum or Ampoule
Apply a Centella-based serum after cleansing and before moisturizing to soothe irritation, hydrate, and repair your skin barrier. Look for products with a high percentage of Centella extract for maximum benefits.
2. In a Moisturizer
Centella-infused creams work well for locking in moisture and calming inflammation. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, using a lightweight Centella moisturizer can help reduce redness without clogging pores.
3. As a Spot Treatment
For breakouts or irritated patches, apply a Centella-based gel or cream directly to the affected area. It can help reduce redness and speed up healing without causing dryness.
4. In a Toner or Essence
Using a Centella-infused toner can help prep your skin for the rest of your routine while delivering a soothing, hydrating boost. Ideal for those who experience redness or sensitivity after cleansing.
5. In Face Masks
Sheet masks infused with Centella extract can be a great way to calm inflamed skin after sun exposure, shaving, or a long day of stress.
👉 Pro Tip: Pair Centella with other gentle ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and panthenol for an extra dose of hydration and skin barrier support.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because You’re Not Alone in Wondering)
1. How long does it take for Centella to work?
Patience, young grasshopper. Centella isn’t an overnight miracle, but studies suggest you can see reduced redness and improved hydration within 2-4 weeks of regular use. Faster than your ex texting back, but slower than an Instagram filter.
2. What’s the difference between Cica and Centella?
Short answer: Nothing, really. Long answer: Cica is just a trendy nickname for Centella Asiatica, used by brands to sound cuter. Some Cica creams may contain additional soothing ingredients, but at the core, they both come from the same plant.
3. What are the side effects of Centella cream?
For most people? None. But if your skin is extra sensitive, there’s a small chance of irritation or an allergic reaction. Always patch test before going full skincare scientist on your face.
4. Does Centella help with pores?
Kind of. It won’t shrink your pores (because that’s physically impossible), but it helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, making pores look less visible over time.
Should You Add Centella to Your Routine?
If you have sensitive, acne-prone, dry, or irritated skin, then yes—Centella is a great addition. Whether you’re dealing with breakouts, redness, or just looking for an extra hydration boost, this ingredient is worth trying.
Look for it in serums, creams, and toners—because let’s be real, if there were a Centella-infused pillow, we’d buy that too.
Comments