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  4. 10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
  • 10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 4
  • 10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 5

10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

These days, products with Centella Asiatica or Cica are available in different forms such as gels, creams, toners, and cleansers. Want to have that Korean glass skin? Here’s one of the secrets in K-beauty - Centella Asiatica. Also known as cica, it is a natural and gentle ingredient that can help in healing wounds, soothing the skin, and delaying the signs of aging. 


It is a plant-derived extract that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. In this article, we will walk you through the many benefits of cica and also share our top 10 picks on the best cica-infused skincare products to buy online. To help you make the right choice, we asked for some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison!

Last updated 07/14/2023
Dr. Meg Sison
Expert
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.

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Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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Table of Contents

Centella Asiatica and Its Benefits

Nowadays, it seems that Centella Asiatica is a common ingredient in most skincare products. But what does it really do? Read below as we discuss everything you need to know about this holy-grail ingredient.

What Is Centella Asiatica or Cica?

What Is Centella Asiatica or Cica?

Centella Asiatica or Cica is also referred to as Gotu Kola, Indian Pennywort as well as Tiger Grass because tigers are known to rub their wounds against this plant for healing. It grows in the tropical and subtropical regions of South Africa, Indonesia, India, China, and even the Korean Peninsula. 


Generally, skincare products that are infused with cica are great for all skin types- they can enhance the overall appearance of the skin by clearing the complexion. However, cica is especially beneficial to sensitive, acne-prone and mature skin. For it to be effective, always check if the product contains at least 5% of cica extract.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Centella Asiatica (also known as tiger grass, Indian pennywort, or Gotu kola) is an herb used to treat a variety of diseases in China, India, Africa, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. The main chemical components responsible for its pharmacological activity are triterpenes, mostly asiaticoside, asiatic acid, madecassoside, and madecassic acid.

Benefits of Using Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica

Benefits of Using Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica

Cica is known to soothe and repair irritated skin for those who suffer from acne, stubborn breakouts, and redness. It is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that aid in lowering inflammation, killing bacteria, and fighting free radicals. 


It can also hydrate your skin- making it an excellent moisturizer, especially for dry skin. It enhances the skin barrier to improve your skin’s suppleness and elasticity as well as delay other signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.


Cica contains amino acids, which can speed up the healing of wounds by increasing collagen production. This makes it a great treatment for burns, eczema, and psoriasis. Furthermore, it’s an effective anti-photoaging agent in skincare products, protecting your skin from sun damage. Lastly, it also helps in lessening the appearance of stretch marks.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

In traditional herbal medicine, Centella Asiatica has been used in dermatological conditions to treat small wounds, scratches, burns, and anti-inflammatory agents, particularly in eczemas. In vitro studies also showed benefits for acne, baldness, and vitiligo.

How to Choose Skincare Products With Cica - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Select the product form that works for you.
  2. Identify your skin type.
  3. Check the label to address more skin concerns.
  4. Read customer reviews and clinical reports to verify the effectiveness.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Select the Product Form That Works for You

Select the Product Form That Works for You

With the rise of cica as a gentle yet effective skincare ingredient, many beauty brands have launched different products that are infused with this "miracle" extract. You can opt for calming toners, hydrating sheet masks, and foaming facial washes according to your skin type and regimen needs.


The most common type, however, are creams and gel-based products in the form of moisturizers and soothing gels. Some are specifically formulated for acne control, reducing wrinkles, neutralizing the skin tone, and soothing irritated skin. 


If you don't have an established routine yet, you can also try the cica line of certain skincare brands to experience the full benefits of this natural ingredient. 

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Centella Asiatica can be found in several skincare products such as toners, sheet masks, cleansers, sunscreens, moisturizers, and serums. Skincare brands also developed a whole line dedicated to Centella Asiatica as their key ingredient. 


You can just choose a particular product that you will be using for a long time, depending on what your skin needs. Consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance on choosing the right skin care product that will benefit your skin the most.

2

Identify Your Skin Type

Identify Your Skin Type

Your skin type can range from normal, dry, oily, combination to sensitive, and they change over time due to factors like hormones, aging, medications, and the weather. Normal skin isn’t too dry nor too oily and may have a radiant complexion. In contrast, dry skin looks dull, has less skin elasticity, and some may have red patches and roughness.


Oily skin has enlarged pores that are visible. You may have blackheads, whiteheads, and other skin blemishes as a result of excessive sebum. Meanwhile, you have a combination skin type if your chin, nose, and forehead, also known as the t-zone, are oily while the rest of your face is dry. 


Having excess oil on your skin is also the typical cause of having acne-prone skinSensitive skin is more susceptible to redness, itching, and dryness. This skin type may not tolerate some products because of their harsh ingredients and fragrance. Always check the label to avoid allergens that may trigger reactions that can harm your skin.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Normal skin type usually is supple and does not react easily to skincare products. Those with dry skin have rough, itchy, and flaky skin. 


Oily skin is characterized by having shiny and greasy skin with enlarged pores. Combination skin is characterized by having dry patches in some areas while oily in other areas, especially the T-zone. 


Acne-prone skin may or may not be oily, and this is characterized by having whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, and nodules. Those with sensitive skin are likely to burn or sting after using a skincare product.

3

Check the Label to Address More Skin Concerns

Aside from your skin type, you may also have a particular skin concern that you want to address. This will help you narrow down your options since some cica-infused skincare products are formulated to treat a specific skin issue. Moreover, cica is often paired with other potent ingredients in order to effectively combat skin woes. 

Vitamin C for Healing Wounds

Vitamin C for Healing Wounds

Science has proven that when vitamin C is combined with Centella Asiatica, they provide wound healing benefits and increase collagen production. Moreover, a study also showed that when these two ingredients are paired together, they can give your skin extra hydration and improved suppleness, in addition to their ability to refine the appearance of wrinkles. 

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Vitamin C aids in collagen production. When combined with Centella Asiatica, they showed significant improvement of the deep and superficial wrinkles, suppleness, firmness, roughness, and skin hydration after 6 months of treatment in a clinical trial done on 20 female participants. In addition, there was also a noted improvement in the skin elasticity of the participants.

High Concentration of Cica Compounds for Treating Acne

High Concentration of Cica Compounds for Treating Acne

When it comes to treating acne, cica balms or moisturizers contain a concentrated formulation of its active compounds including madecassoside, madecassic acid, asiatic acid, and asiaticoside. They help in reducing redness and inflammation as well as speeding up the healing process of acne on your skin.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

An in vitro study was done on the effect of madecassoside on human monocytic cells. Madecassoside significantly inhibited the pro-inflammatory cytokines responsible for the inflammation in acne. 


It also enhanced skin hydration by increasing the key moisturizing contributors of aquaporin-3, loricrin, and involucrin in skin cells. However, more clinical studies on humans are still needed to document the benefit of Centella Asiatica and its compounds on acne.

Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Vera for Moisturizing the Skin

Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Vera for Moisturizing the Skin

If you need extra hydration for dry skin, you may want to look for hyaluronic acid and aloe vera extract for added moisture on your skin. On the other hand, AHA, BHA, and PHA products help in removing sebum and dead skin cells to smoothen the skin’s texture.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that draws water from the environment to moisturize the skin. It is a great addition to products with Centella Asiatica for added skin hydration. Aloe vera is also a humectant and has anti-inflammatory properties as well. 


AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs function as chemical exfoliants that help gently remove dead skin cells and excess sebum from the skin's outermost layer. They can also aid in skin hydration at low concentrations.

Adenosine and Retinol for Warding-Off the Signs of Aging

Adenosine and Retinol for Warding-Off the Signs of Aging

Check other ingredients such as adenosine, an amino acid that helps boost collagen to maintain the skin’s elasticity. Some brands like L'Oréal have joined the cica bandwagon and launched a cream packed with retinol to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Clinical studies showed that both adenosine and retinol could stimulate collagen production and thus confer anti-aging benefits. Adenosine also has anti-inflammatory effects that can help with irritation and redness for those with sensitive skin.

4

Read Customer Reviews and Clinical Reports to Verify the Effectiveness

Read Customer Reviews and Clinical Reports to Verify the Effectiveness

Take a look at what customers are saying about the product before purchasing. While cica skincare products are known for their skin repair, soothing, moisturizing, and anti-aging benefits, they’re not equally formulated. Some brands incorporate other ingredients to treat specific skin conditions. 


Look for product reviews that talk about skin issues and skin types that are the same as yours. Also, check out the brands that show third-party clinical reports to verify the effectiveness of their products. 

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Reading customer reviews can give you an idea if the product works for the reviewer or not. Take note that reviews can vary from one person to another and that every person's skin reacts differently to skincare products.

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10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Luxe Organix

Cica Rescue Calming Cleanser

Luxe Organix Cica Rescue Calming Cleanser 1

₱289

Low Mid

A Gentle Cleanser for Sensitive and Dry Skin

2

COSRX

Pure Fit Cica Cleanser

COSRX Pure Fit Cica Cleanser 1

₱640

Mid

Cica-7 Complex for Relaxing the Skin

3

SOME BY MI

AHA BHA PHA Real Cica 92% Cool Calming Soothing Gel

SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA Real Cica  1

₱599

Mid

A Multipurpose Soothing Gel for Cooling the Skin

4

Dr. Jart+

Cicapair Re-Cover CreamSPF40 PA+

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Re-Cover Cream 1

₱2,150

High

Correcting Cream With SPF 40 to Hide Redness

5

Luxe Organix

Cica Rescue Calming Toner

Luxe Organix Cica Rescue Calming Toner 1

₱314

Mid

A Calming Toner to Soothe Irritated Skin

6

Baroness

Cica Intense CreamQuick-Effect Repairing Cream

Baroness Cica Intense Cream 1

₱249

Low Mid

Anti-Aging Cream for Reducing Wrinkles

7

Missha

Premium Cica Aloe Soothing Gel

Missha Premium Cica Aloe Soothing Gel 1

₱300

Low Mid

Soothing Cica Aloe Gel for the Face and Body

8

Heimish

Cica Live Ampoule Mask

Heimish Cica Live Ampoule Mask 1

₱80

Low

Hydrating Sheet Mask for Moisturizing Your Face

9

Dermatory

Hypoallergenic Cica Rescue Gauze Pad

Dermatory Hypoallergenic Cica Rescue Gauze Pad 1

₱950

High Mid

Sterilized Gauze Pad With Cica Essence

10

Nacific

Fresh Cica Plus Clear Kit

Nacific  Fresh Cica Plus Clear Kit 1

₱830

High Mid

Cica Skincare Set Straight From South Korea

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Luxe OrganixCica Rescue Calming Cleanser

Cica Rescue Calming Cleanser 1
Source:watsons.com.ph
Reference price
₱289
Low Mid
Reference price
₱289
Low Mid

A Gentle Cleanser for Sensitive and Dry Skin

Luxe Organix is a local brand that offers affordable Korean skincare products here in the Philippines. Its Cica Rescue Calming Cleanser is a gel-type facial wash, which is easy to lather on your face. It aims to soothe irritated skin and balance your skin's pH level.


It also works to control sebum production to prevent too many pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. Its star ingredient is Centella Asiatica, specifically- its Madecassoside, which is suitable for sensitive and dry skin. The cleanser is also alcohol-free and paraben-free. If you want to get better results, use this cleaner with the brand's calming toner and serum from the same Cica Rescue line.

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No.2

COSRXPure Fit Cica Cleanser

Reference price
₱640
Mid

Cica-7 Complex for Relaxing the Skin

This cica cleanser from COSRX has a low-pH formula, giving you that gentle cleansing, without compromising your skin's moisture level. It is a hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested foam cleanser, which has enhanced and concentrated cica ingredients called CICA 7-Complex.  


This means that the cleanser is infused with Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Root Extract, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside to relax the skin. 


It is suitable for calming inflammation, lessening breakouts, and quicker skin healing. It is oil-free and best for normal & sensitive skin types. It also has Pinus Pinaster Bark extracts for enhancing your skin's defenses.

No.3

SOME BY MIAHA BHA PHA Real Cica 92% Cool Calming Soothing Gel

Reference price
₱599
Mid

A Multipurpose Soothing Gel for Cooling the Skin

This soothing gel is a great buy, especially during the summer months. It contains 92% of Centella Asiatica for soothing the face and body. This is perfect for treating your skin after a day of strong sun & dust exposure as well as wearing a mask. These factors can contribute to red bumps on your face, itchy skin, and excessive sebum. 


This gel helps prevent acne as it removes dead skin cells, impurities, and sebum. Moreover, it contains three layers of hyaluronic acid, delivering moisture into your skin. If you're suffering from redness and skin troubles, the soothing gel can pacify them immediately. 


Put this in your fridge and experience a refreshing cooling sensation. It is smooth and doesn't feel sticky on your skin. You can use it as a moisturizer for daily use, a sleeping pack, a cooling eye pack as well as an emergency calming pack. It's a multipurpose soothing gel that's worth the try. 

No.4

Dr. Jart+Cicapair Re-Cover CreamSPF40 PA+

Cicapair Re-Cover Cream 1
Source:sephora.ph
Reference price
₱2,150
High
Reference price
₱2,150
High

Correcting Cream With SPF 40 to Hide Redness

This correcting cream from Dr. Jart+ conceals acne, blemishes, redness, and minor skin imperfections- turning from green to beige to even out your skin tone. It's a versatile cream that also offers protection from UV rays with its SPF40 PA++ rating.


You can apply this cream after using your moisturizer, or include it in your makeup routine- serving as a CC cream. Of course, its cica content works to calm the skin- lessening irritation and inflammation. According to customers who have tried this product, "a little goes a long way."

No.5

Luxe OrganixCica Rescue Calming Toner

Reference price
₱314
Mid

A Calming Toner to Soothe Irritated Skin

If you have sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin, this calming toner is for you. It's formulated with Centella Asiatica and Madecassoside, which are potent ingredients to soothe irritated skin. Those who bought this calming toner claimed that after a few weeks of regular use, it has reduced the redness and irritation of the skin as well as the presence of excessive oil.


After washing your face, get a cotton pad or ball, then soak it with the toner. Gently pat it on your face- especially the targeted areas to gently remove impurities and control sebum production. This toner is paraben & alcohol-free and has a water-based texture. It's also useful for cleaning up makeup residues.

No.6

BaronessCica Intense CreamQuick-Effect Repairing Cream

Reference price
₱249
Low Mid

Anti-Aging Cream for Reducing Wrinkles

This repairing cream from Korea has Centella Asiatica as its prime ingredient and 7 other natural ingredients such as Rosa Damascena Flower Extract, Green Tea Extract, and Soybean Ferment Extract to moisturize and rejuvenate the skin as well as heal flare-ups. 


It is a smooth and silky cream that is easily absorbed by the skin. It is also a trending K-Beauty moisturizer that can reduce wrinkles to reduce the sign of aging. It contains adenosine, an amino acid that stimulates collagen production to maintain the skin's elasticity. 


It also has niacinamide, which controls melanin production, and aloe vera & squalene to keep the skin moisturized. This cream-based product is ideal for morning and night skincare regimens. 

No.7

MisshaPremium Cica Aloe Soothing Gel

Premium Cica Aloe Soothing Gel 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱300
Low Mid

Soothing Cica Aloe Gel for the Face and Body

This multipurpose Premium Cica Aloe Soothing Gel is perfect for calming sensitive skin after being exposed to UV rays. This skincare gem has a 95% cica and aloe vera leaf juice using Centella Asiatica that is grown in Jeju Island in Korea. It offers double the moisturizing effects to soothe the targeted area. What's more, this can be used on other parts of your body such as hands, legs, and neck.


You can also use this on mosquito bites to pacify the redness or apply it as a sleeping mask all night long. For people who experience after shave burns, this cica gel can calm those areas as well. Want a double cooling effect? Put this in the fridge, and it's a perfect treat to combat the summer heat. 

No.8

HeimishCica Live Ampoule Mask

Reference price
₱80
Low

Hydrating Sheet Mask for Moisturizing Your Face

Do you love to relax by putting a sheet mask on your face? This ampoule mask contains Centella Asiatica leaf extract obtained by applying Vege Live technology- an eco-friendly extraction method to get the full benefits of the vegetable cells. It has a great number of nutrients to soothe sensitive skin, including hyaluronic acid for extra moisturization.


To use, prep your face with your choice of toner, then put on the mask and leave it for about 10 to 20 minutes. Afterward, you can use the remaining essence to gently massage your face; finally, apply your favorite moisturizer. This product is highly recommended for dry and parched skin. 

No.9

DermatoryHypoallergenic Cica Rescue Gauze Pad

Hypoallergenic Cica Rescue Gauze Pad 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Hypoallergenic Cica Rescue Gauze Pad 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱950
High Mid

Sterilized Gauze Pad With Cica Essence

This hypoallergenic rescue gauze pad is a life-saver for anyone who's suffering from redness. It is infused with cica essence to soothe and calm even sensitive skin. It also contains traditional ingredients for improving the skin's moisture barrier, protecting the skin from UV rays, and cleansing the skin with natural surfactants.


This soothing pad from Korea is great for when you need fast exfoliation and skin calming in the morning. There's even a space in the container for writing the opening date so you can use the 60 pads before they expire. It comes with tongs for a hygienic and convenient way of picking-up the pads, which are 5-cm in diameter.

No.10

Nacific Fresh Cica Plus Clear Kit

 Fresh Cica Plus Clear Kit 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱830
High Mid

Cica Skincare Set Straight From South Korea

If you're looking for a cica skincare set, then Nacific has a cleansing foam, toner, serum, and cream to complete your skincare regimen. This set contains a fresh cica calming solution, ideal for people who have troubled, oily and dry skin.


The key ingredients include Madecassic Acid, which works wonderfully to soothe irritated skin; Ceramide NP, which has hydrating and tightening power; and cypress water that keeps your face moisturized. The skincare set offers a 4-step regimen for cleansing & exfoliating, smoothing, hydrating & soothing as well as moisturizing the skin. 

Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison

Still have unanswered questions on your mind? Below, Dr. Meg answers some of the web's most asked questions!

Can Centella Asiatica Fade Scars?

In vitro studies on Centella Asiatica and its compounds showed benefit in wound healing and prevention of hypertrophic scars, but there were no human trials conducted if it can fade scars. More studies are needed to prove this claim.

Are There Ingredients You Should Not Use With Centella Asiatica?

Centella Asiatica is generally safe to use, and there are no reports of incompatibility with other skincare ingredients.

Does Centella Asiatica Cause Purging?

Centella Asiatica does not cause increased cell turnover on the skin, so it cannot cause purging. If you experience an increase in acne while using a product with Centella Asiatica, stop using the product and consult a board-certified dermatologist.

More Tips From Dr. Meg Sison

Avoid introducing so many new skincare products in your skincare routine all at the same time to avoid skin irritation and breakouts. Always consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance on choosing the right skincare products based on your skin concern.

Start a Skincare Routine for a Healthy and Glowing Skin

If you don't have a skincare routine yet, it's time to start one- regardless of your age and skin type. Your skin will definitely thank you in the future. Simply follow the basic 3-step skincare regimen, which includes cleansing, toning, and moisturizing the skin. Here are some of the best skincare products to get you started.

Author: Maria Krisette Capati

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica)

No. 1: Luxe OrganixCica Rescue Calming Cleanser

No. 2: COSRXPure Fit Cica Cleanser

No. 3: SOME BY MIAHA BHA PHA Real Cica 92% Cool Calming Soothing Gel

No. 4: Dr. Jart+Cicapair Re-Cover CreamSPF40 PA+

No. 5: Luxe OrganixCica Rescue Calming Toner

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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