CICA, a classic Korean cosmetic
Korean cosmetics containing a beauty ingredient called CICA have become widespread and are rapidly gaining popularity.
It sounds like it's good for your skin, but what kind of effect does it actually have on your skin?
In this article, we will explain the effects of CICA on the skin based on objective evidence.
What is CICA?
The raw material for CICA is a herb called "Centella asiatica" that grows indigenously in Asia and Africa. In Japan, it is known as Centella asiatica.
The extract extracted from the leaves and stems of Centella asiatica is called Centella asiatica extract, and in cosmetics it is known by the nickname CICA.
A wound treatment in Europe?!
CICA is known in Japan as a skin-beautifying ingredient, but it actually has a long history.
Apparently, there are records showing that it has been used as a panacea in folk medicine for over 3,000 years.
It was primarily used in traditional Asian medicine for its ability to speed up wound healing and reduce skin inflammation.
It was adopted into Western medicine in the 19th century and is now found in skin care products around the world, and is still used in European pharmacies as a wound treatment and soothing agent.
Useful ingredients contained in CICA
CICA contains three main beneficial ingredients:
- Madecassoside
- Asiaticoside
- Asiatic Acid
- Madecassic Acid
In addition to the four useful ingredients mentioned above, it is also rich in amino acids, beta-carotene, fatty acids, etc.
These beneficial ingredients are said to have the effect of soothing eczema and inflammation, which is why it has been used to treat burns and wounds.
CICA's effects on skin
The main effects expected from CICA are antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects.
But what kind of specific benefits can you expect from using skin care products containing CICA?
Collagen production
Collagen is a protein that makes up tissues throughout the body. It is essential for skin firmness and elasticity, but it is known to decrease with age.
One study has shown that CICA helps stimulate collagen production in human skin.
It is also possible that a compound called triterpene contained in CICA may help produce collagen .
Relieves skin irritation
A 2017 study in mice suggests it may be effective against dermatitis, as CICA's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe irritated skin.
Moisturizing
Research is also underway into the use of CICA to strengthen the skin's barrier function .
A 2017 clinical trial of 20 women showed that adding CICA to hyaluronic acid and glycerin improved moisturization.
About hyaluronic acid: Is sodium hyaluronate different from hyaluronic acid?
Wrinkles
Some research suggests it may also be effective against wrinkles .
The study was conducted in 2008 on 20 women with tanned skin.
They applied an antioxidant cream containing vitamin C and CICA, and compared the skin after six months. The results showed that two-thirds of participants saw improvements in skin moisture, elasticity, and wrinkles.
Another study , also from 2008 , found that using a cream containing asiaticoside, a component of CICA, twice daily for 12 weeks also improved wrinkles around the eyes in two-thirds of participants.
Acne
A 2018 test-tube study suggested that madecassoside, a compound found in CICA, improved hydration in human skin cells, reducing inflammation that can lead to acne.
About Acne: Does Salicylic Acid Work? The Effects and Risks
Research is ongoing, but...
As mentioned above, there is a lot of research being done on the effects of CICA, but most of the studies have been done on animals.
Therefore, it is unclear whether the same effects can be expected in humans.
In addition, the majority of research reports on its effectiveness against eczema, psoriasis, and acne have been conducted by cosmetic manufacturers. In other words, it cannot be denied that there may not be enough data to objectively prove its effectiveness.
Is CICA sustainable?
CICA is popular all over the world, but overfishing of the raw materials is becoming a problem.
The raw material for CICA, which is used in cosmetics and medicines, is wild Centella asiatica. In India and Madagascar, where it is mainly harvested, the natural ecosystem of Centella asiatica seems to be being destroyed by the rapidly increasing demand.
In other words, mass harvesting and overfishing continues unabated, and it appears that quality problems are beginning to arise, such as genetic disruption of wild Centella asiatica and reduced nutritional value.
The same problem exists in Nepal , where wild Centella asiatica populations are rapidly declining due to habitat destruction, over-exploitation and unsustainable harvesting.
Before jumping on the bandwagon just because it's a popular ingredient, it might be nice to choose cosmetics with consideration for the earth as well.
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*This does not guarantee that skin irritation or allergies will not occur in all people.
