Cica + Ceramide + 2% Niacinamide Advanced Barrier Repair Cream
Cica + Ceramide + 2% Niacinamide Advanced Barrier Repair Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A multi-action barrier repair cream that combines the soothing power of Centella Asiatica (Cica), skin-identical Ceramide NP, and 2% Niacinamide to strengthen, hydrate, and protect damaged skin barriers. Formulated for dry, sensitive, and compromised skin at an affordable price point.
Barrier Strengthening
Ceramide NP replenishes skin lipids and reinforces the protective barrier against environmental stressors.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Strengthening
Ceramide NP replenishes skin lipids and reinforces the protective barrier against environmental stressors.
Soothing Cica Complex
Centella Asiatica calms irritation, reduces redness, and accelerates skin healing with its anti-inflammatory properties.
Brightening Niacinamide
2% Niacinamide improves skin texture, minimizes pores, and helps fade hyperpigmentation over time.
Deep Hydration
Glycerin and Snail Mucin provide multi-level hydration that lasts throughout the day without feeling heavy.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAll ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone present.
Free from malassezia-feeding ingredients. Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride which has anti-fungal properties against yeast.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with soothing ingredients like Allantoin and Cucumber Extract for reactive skin.
While gentle, those with extremely sensitive or reactive skin should patch test before full application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica (Cica)Proven
Also known as Gotu Kola, this traditional Asian medicinal herb has been used for centuries to heal wounds, burns, and skin irritations. It contains powerful compounds including asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid.
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show Cica stimulates collagen synthesis and improves skin barrier function.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms irritated, sensitized skin effectively.
- Wound Healing: Accelerates healing of micro-wounds, acne scars, and post-procedure skin.
Ceramide NPProven
A skin-identical lipid that makes up approximately 50% of the natural lipid barrier. Ceramide NP (formerly Ceramide 3) is one of the most researched ceramides for topical application.
- Barrier Repair: Replenishes depleted ceramides to restore skin's protective function.
- Moisture Retention: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) for lasting hydration.
- Synergy: Works best when combined with other lipids and humectants present in this formula.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2%Proven
A multitasking powerhouse ingredient that addresses multiple skin concerns simultaneously. The 2% concentration provides gentle yet effective benefits without risking irritation.
- Barrier Support: Increases natural ceramide production within the skin.
- Sebum Regulation: Helps control oil production without over-drying.
- Brightening: Reduces hyperpigmentation and evens out skin tone over time.
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and reduces inflammation associated with acne.
Snail Secretion FiltratePromising
A K-beauty favorite ingredient rich in glycoproteins, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid. Known for its regenerative and hydrating properties.
- Hydration: Contains natural hyaluronic acid for moisture binding.
- Regeneration: Promotes cell turnover and accelerates skin repair.
- Texture: Helps smooth and refine skin surface over time.
Cucumber ExtractSoothing
A classic calming ingredient that provides hydration, reduces puffiness, and soothes irritated skin with its cooling properties.
- Hydration: High water content delivers instant moisture boost.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms sensitized skin.
- Antioxidant: Contains vitamin C and caffeic acid for protection.
AllantoinProven
A gentle, non-irritating compound that promotes cell regeneration and soothes the skin. Found naturally in comfrey plant.
- Cell Regeneration: Stimulates healthy tissue formation.
- Soothing: Relieves irritation and enhances skin smoothness.
- Keratolytic: Gently softens keratin to improve skin texture.
22 ingredients
Aqua, Propylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Silica, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Dimethicone, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Laureth-7, Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) Extract, Triolein, Olive Glycerides, Ceramide NP, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract, Allantoin, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the moisturizing step in your routine. Can be used both morning and night. Layer sunscreen on top for daytime use.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with clean, toned skin. Apply any serums or essences first and allow them to absorb.
Dispense
Take a pea-sized amount of cream onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this formula.
Apply & Pat
Gently spread across face and neck using upward strokes. Pat gently to enhance absorption.
Wait & Layer
Allow 1-2 minutes to absorb before applying sunscreen (AM) or sleeping mask (PM).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- Your skin barrier is damaged or compromised
- You experience dryness, tightness, or flaking
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
- You're recovering from over-exfoliation or retinol use
- You want a budget-friendly barrier repair cream
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe skincare
- You have fungal acne and need a safe moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin and prefer gel textures
- You need intense anti-aging actives (retinol, peptides)
- You prefer heavily fragranced products
- You need a very rich, occlusive night cream
- You're looking for a mattifying moisturizer
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESCeramide NP and glycerin provide deep hydration. May layer with a face oil in winter for extra moisture.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with soothing Cica and Allantoin. Ideal for reactive, sensitized skin.
Absorbs well without excessive heaviness. Focus on drier areas; use sparingly on T-zone if needed.
May feel slightly heavy for very oily skin. Consider using only at night or a lighter gel alternative for daytime.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. Niacinamide helps with post-acne marks and inflammation.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels more hydrated and comfortable. Reduced tightness and flaking. Redness begins to calm.
85% noticed improvementBarrier Strengthening
Skin barrier feels stronger. Less sensitivity to products and environment. Improved moisture retention.
78% noticed improvementVisible Transformation
Improved skin texture and tone. Reduced hyperpigmentation from niacinamide. Overall healthier complexion.
70% noticed improvementLong-term Benefits
Resilient, balanced skin that handles actives better. Reduced sensitivity and more even skin tone.
65% noticed improvementRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for money at ₱499
- Effectively repairs damaged skin barrier
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fungal acne
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Contains proven ingredients (Cica, Ceramide, Niacinamide)
- Good hydration without feeling overly heavy
- Local brand supporting Filipino beauty industry
Criticized
- May feel heavy for very oily skin types
- 50g size can run out quickly
- Not widely available outside Philippines
- No pump packaging (hygiene concerns with jar)
- Lower niacinamide concentration (2%) vs competitors
- Limited international shipping options
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lighter gel texture with Centella. Great for oily skin but lacks ceramides for intensive barrier repair.
Korean alternative with 7 Cica ingredients and 6000ppm Centella. No ceramides but excellent soothing properties.
Contains 5 types of ceramides plus Centella. Lighter gel texture, has fragrance. Very similar benefits.
Panthenol + Madecassoside focus. Thicker texture, no ceramides or niacinamide but extremely gentle formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Etude SoonJung 2x Barrier Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check for changes in smell, color, or texture.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is ideal.
Tube packaging with screw cap. Use clean hands or spatula to maintain hygiene.
Yes, 50g is under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cream is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All key ingredients (Cica, Ceramide NP, Niacinamide, Allantoin) are topically safe for expectant and nursing mothers. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Yes, this cream is fungal acne safe. It contains no ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast. The Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride in the formula actually has anti-fungal properties that inhibit Malassezia growth. It's free from ferments, problematic fatty acids (C12-C24), esters, and polysorbates that typically trigger fungal acne.
Yes, this cream works well with most actives. For retinol: Apply this cream after retinol to buffer and reduce irritation. For vitamin C: Use vitamin C in the morning and this cream can be applied over it. For AHA/BHA: Wait 20-30 minutes after acids before applying this cream, or use on alternate nights if you experience sensitivity. The barrier-repairing ingredients actually help your skin tolerate actives better over time.
This cream is best suited for dry, sensitive, and compromised skin types. It's excellent for those with damaged skin barriers, eczema-prone skin, post-procedure skin, and sensitive/reactive skin. Combination skin can use it effectively, focusing on drier areas. Those with very oily skin may find it slightly heavy and might prefer using it only at night or opting for the brand's gel formulations.
Most users notice immediate comfort and hydration within the first few applications. Reduced sensitivity and improved moisture retention typically occur within 2-4 weeks. For visible barrier repair and texture improvement, expect 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Brightening effects from niacinamide may take 8-12 weeks to become noticeable. Results vary based on your skin condition and consistent use.
Apply this cream as your moisturizing step, typically after cleansing, toning, and applying any serums or essences. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. At night, you can apply a sleeping mask or face oil on top if you need extra hydration. The general order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → Serum → This Cream → Sunscreen (AM) or Sleeping Mask (PM).
No, this cream has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. It's free from known pore-clogging ingredients and is labeled as non-comedogenic. The formula contains non-comedogenic emollients like Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and lightweight humectants. However, everyone's skin is different, so if you're prone to breakouts, introduce it gradually and monitor your skin's response.
The cream has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in smell, color, texture, or if the product separates, discontinue use. The 50g size typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily application on face and neck.
Verdict: DermoRepubliq Cica + Ceramide + 2% Niacinamide Advanced Barrier Repair Cream delivers exceptional value for those seeking an effective, gentle barrier repair solution. The combination of proven ingredients at an affordable price point makes it a standout choice in the Filipino beauty market. While the 2% niacinamide concentration is lower than some competitors, the overall formula is well-balanced and suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. Highly recommended for anyone dealing with a compromised skin barrier, post-treatment recovery, or simply wanting a reliable, pregnancy-safe, and fungal acne-safe daily moisturizer.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer
Anticaking Agent
|
|