Centellys-CA

Centellys-CA at a glance

Centellys-CA is an active based on centella asiatica, the plant behind the cica trend. It is an off-white to pale brown viscous solution that disperses in water. The supplier specification gives a pH of 4.5 to 6.5 and lists facial cosmetics, serums, creams, essences, masks, body lotions and creams, appearance-focused cosmetic formulas, sensitive skin care and after-sun products. Confirm the full INCI and the content of centella compounds on the certificate of analysis.

Why centella is so popular

Centella asiatica, known as gotu kola in Ayurveda and as cica in Korean beauty, contains triterpene compounds such as madecassoside and asiaticoside. In skin care it is associated with a soothed, comfortable feel and with care that supports a stronger, more resilient-looking skin barrier. It has become a key ingredient for sensitive-looking skin, leave-on cosmetic serum comfort products and calming routines.

Formats

Cica creams and balms

Rich creams for dry, sensitive-looking skin are the signature cica format.

Essences and serums

Light essences and serums bring centella into a layered routine.

Masks

Sheet masks and gel masks with centella are popular for a quick calming boost.

After-sun and body care

After-sun lotions and body creams use centella for comfort after sun exposure.

How to use it

Disperse the solution in the water phase during cool-down, below 40 °C, and stir until uniform. Its viscosity means it should be added slowly to a stirred phase. It can slightly tint very clear products, so check color. Keep the final pH between 4.5 and 6.5.

Partners

Calming concepts often combine centella with barrier and moisture ingredients. Ceramide NP supports a barrier message, and D-panthenol adds comfort. More calming and barrier concentrates are listed in the actives catalog.

Characteristics

Basis: centella asiatica. Appearance: off-white to pale brown viscous solution. Solubility: water-dispersible. PH: 4.5 to 6.5. Listed uses: facial cosmetics, serums, creams, essences, masks, body care, appearance-focused cosmetic, sensitive skin care, after-sun. Full INCI and content: stated on the CoA supplied with each lot.

Cica comfort cream recipe, 100 g

Distilled water 70.60 g, glyceryl stearate citrate 3.00 g, cetearyl alcohol 2.00 g, caprylic and capric triglyceride 7.00 g, shea butter 3.00 g, squalane 2.00 g, glycerin 4.00 g, Centellys-CA 4.00 g, panthenol 2.00 g, xanthan gum 0.20 g, allantoin 0.20 g, phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin 1.00 g, sodium citrate solution 1.00 g. Heat the water and oil phases to 75 °C, emulsify, cool while stirring, then add Centellys-CA, panthenol, allantoin and preservative below 40 °C and adjust the pH to about 5.5.

Fragrance-free is the norm

Products for sensitive-looking skin are usually fragrance-free. Consumers who buy cica products often check for this, so keep fragrance and essential oils out and choose mild preservatives. A short ingredient list builds trust.

Testing

Use a patch test on sensitive panelists and measure redness with a chromameter or skin barrier with TEWL readings before and after use. Consumer self-assessment of comfort and calm adds a useful perspective.

Dose guidance

Follow the dose in the technical sheet. In creams for sensitive-looking skin, a moderate dose with a good barrier base works better than a very high dose in a thin product.

Centella in a range

Cica ranges usually include a cream, a serum and a mask, and sometimes a cleansing gel. The cream is the hero product, so give it the highest dose and the richest barrier base. The serum can be lighter and layer under a moisturizer, and the mask can be used for a quick calming boost.

Storage

Store tightly closed in a cool place, protected from light.