Among all the other unexpected twists and turns that 2020's pandemic brought with it, our skin drastically changing was one we could have done without.
Increased screen time, a lack of Vitamin D, ever rising stress levels and a lifestyle that often centred more around red wine than 5km runs all contributed to our skin becoming more reactive than ever. Not to mention our new routine of wearing a face covering gifting us with an unwanted bout of maskne.
As our health and happiness took a hit, so too did our skin barriers leading to everything from breakouts to redness, and a whole host of issues in between.
Which is where cica comes in. The hottest new skincare ingredient to hit our beauty routines, cica helps to heal, soothe and hydrate your skin - just what 2021 ordered.
Everything You Need To Know About Cica Skincare
What is cica?
Whenever a hyped new skincare ingredient comes around, our first question is always, 'Ok, but what is it?'
'Cica, also referred to as Gotu Kola and Tiger Grass, is a leafy herb which has been used for years in Traditional Chinese Medicine,' explains medical and cosmetic expert Dr Ewoma Ukeleghe. 'Studies have since shown that it can facilitate the healing of burns or cuts. It’s full of amino and fatty acids, vitamins and beta-carotene to repair and soothe skin.' In short, all the good stuff your skin needs.
What are the skincare benefits of cica?
Whether you're using cica skincare on your face or all over your body, its benefits are almost endless.
1.Firming
'Cica is rich in triterpene saponins, which are known to firm and tighten your skin's appearance,' says skin and wellness expert, Marie Reynolds. It's something pro facialist Ada Oi also confirms. 'Cica helps encourage collagen production, reduces the appearance of scarring & wrinkles and can help prevent sagging.'
2. Protecting from environmental aggressors
'Cica is also rich in flavonoids, a powerful antioxidant agent, which may help regulate your skin’s cellular activity and fight off free radicals that cause oxidative stress - therefore helping to protect your skin from environmental stressors,' Reynolds continues.
3. It's perfect for sensitive skin
'Cica is the ultimate healing elixir, it assists healing, soothes sensitive complexions, stimulates collagen production and has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties,' says Dr Ukeleghe.
ELLE Edit: Cica Skincare
Aveeno Skin Relief Nourish & Repair Cica Balm
Is cica good for rosacea?
Ideal for sensitive or reactive skin, cica's soothing properties are rosacea's best friend as well. 'Along with its anti-inflammatory response, it is a healing, regenerative and soothing ingredient that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for such purposes,' explains Reynolds.
Is cica good for acne?
And the benevolent power of cica doesn't stop there. Acne sufferers can benefit from its skin barrier protecting properties as well. 'Cica has some amazing amino acids, vitamins, minerals and triterpenesaponins (which is a pre-curser to Squalane),' says Reynolds. This is something Dr Ukeleghe reiterates, who notes: 'It’s anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties means it can be a key ingredient for acne or breakout prone skin. It can also speed up the healing process of broken skin and minimise the appearance of scarring.'
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