Centella Asiatica
Cica — a foundational ingredient in modern Korean cosmetic formulation
Function in skin biology
Centella asiatica (commonly abbreviated "Cica") is a plant traditionally used in several East and Southeast Asian formulation traditions, now widely studied in cosmetic science. Its key constituents — madecassoside, asiaticoside, asiatic acid and madecassic acid — have been evaluated for their role in supporting skin comfort and the visible appearance of skin resilience, particularly in formulas aimed at reactive or recently-stressed skin.
Why Ambernay evaluates it
Centella extract is evaluated for formulas targeting comfort and visible calm in sensitised skin contexts. As a plant-derived ingredient, the concentration and quality of active constituents vary by extraction method and supplier — this variability is part of Ambernay's formulation evaluation criteria before any inclusion decision.
Where concentration matters
Centella extracts are typically standardised by total triterpenoid content (madecassoside, asiaticoside and related compounds) rather than raw extract percentage. Cosmetic research generally references formulas containing 0.1–1% standardised extract, though raw extract percentages in finished products vary by concentration and purity of the source material.
What we do not claim
We do not claim that centella asiatica treats eczema, rosacea, wound healing or any diagnosed dermatological condition. We do not make anti-inflammatory drug claims. Centella in a cosmetic formula is evaluated for its comfort and visible-calm contribution — not as a medicinal intervention.
Best paired with
Centella pairs well with panthenol and ectoin in formulas targeting comfort for reactive skin, and is compatible with niacinamide and standard barrier-support actives.
Claim caution / regulatory note
Centella asiatica extract is a cosmetic botanical ingredient. Claims must remain within cosmetic function: comfort, visible calm, skin feel. Anti-inflammatory, wound-healing or disease-treatment claims are not permitted for a cosmetic product.