Centella
Centella asiatica — aka cica — is K-beauty's signature calming ingredient: a herb used for centuries to heal skin, now the star of Korea's best-selling toners, serums and creams. It soothes redness, supports the skin barrier and plays nice with almost everything else in your routine.
Who it's for: sensitive, redness-prone, breakout-prone — and honestly, everyone else too. How to pick a format: toner for daily calm, ampoule/serum for concentrated repair, cream to seal it in. Browse Skin1004 (the centella specialists), sensitive skin picks or redness care.
What does centella (cica) actually do?
It calms visible redness, supports barrier repair, and soothes irritation — thanks to compounds like madecassoside and asiaticoside. It's gentle enough for daily use.
Can I use centella with other actives?
Yes — cica pairs well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and even retinol (it helps offset irritation). It's one of the most compatible ingredients in skincare.
