Why Cica Is the Star Skincare Ingredient You've Probably Never Heard Of

New buzz-worthy ingredients are constantly popping up in skincare. Ask a beauty expert to name their top skincare tips, and there's a good chance they'll advise you to look for their go-to ingredient. Perhaps it's anti-aging retinol or hydrating hyaluronic acid, but finding the "miracle" ingredient for your skin type can be, to say the least, challenging.

That's why there's something to be said for a botanical skin savior that suits almost all skin types, which brings us to cica. While cica is just starting to be a true standout on skincare shelves (in drugstores and department stores alike) this ingredient is actually an ancient wonder — and for good reason.

So, What is Cica?

For starters, it's a nickname: Scientifically speaking, it's known as centella asiatica, "an herb from the the family Apiaceae, also known by the common name gotu kola or Indian pennywort," explains Good Housekeeping Beauty Lab Director, Birnur Aral, Ph. D.
Cica has been used for nearly 3,000 years in wound healing. The animal kingdom discovered these benefits long ago: Tigers are said to rub their wounds on the Asian plant to help them heal — hence its other well-known nickname, tiger grass. Now, skincare brands are adding the ingredient to moisturizers, serums, and more to restore skin compromised by redness and sensitivity.

What is Cica Good for?

Those who struggle with acne, rosacea, or even severe dryness can benefit from the skin-soothing active: "It is well tolerated by even the most sensitive skin,"says Ava Shamban, M.D., a dermatologist and founder of SkinFive Clinics and Ava MD Dermatology in Los Angeles.

"Rich in anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties, cica has been shown to fight off free radicals, regulate collagen synthesis, and prevent future damage from environmental stressors," says Dr. Shamban.

What should you know when using a cica product?

"It is always best to start using any new active ingredient several times a week and slowly work your way up to nightly use," recommends Dr. Shamban.

Also, be sure to check the ingredient list: though most brands include the word "cica" or "tiger grass" in the ingredient list, some formulas like Kiehl's cream use an active extract from cica instead, such as the Madecassoside.

Which products are worth the splurge?

Opt for a serum or cream that will be left on skin for an extended period of time, and "for the most effective results, use it as a night-time treatment, while skin is in repair mode," advises Dr. Shamban.

For best results, make sure your product is truly packed with cica: "You will get the biggest benefit when it is listed high up on the ingredient list, rather than cluttered in at the end," says Dr. Aral. Here, our favorite cica skincare:Why Cica Is the Star Skincare Ingredient You've Probably Never Heard Of