Heartleaf Teca Capsule Serum Calming Drop
Heartleaf Teca Capsule Serum Calming Drop
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing calming serum featuring encapsulated TECA (Centella Asiatica) and Heartleaf Extract that soothes irritation, reduces redness, and strengthens the skin barrier. Clinically tested for 7-day intensive trouble care with visible results on inflammatory lesions.
TECA Capsule Technology
Encapsulated Centella Asiatica delivers concentrated calming compounds deeper into the skin for maximum anti-inflammatory and reparative effects.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTECA Capsule Technology
Encapsulated Centella Asiatica delivers concentrated calming compounds deeper into the skin for maximum anti-inflammatory and reparative effects.
Heartleaf Elixir
Abib's signature Heartleaf Extract provides powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits to control oil and calm acne-prone skin.
Niacinamide Brightening
Contains 3-3.7% Niacinamide to help fade post-acne marks, regulate sebum, and improve overall skin tone and texture.
Barrier Strengthening
Panthenol, Allantoin, and Beta-Glucan work together to hydrate, protect, and reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer and Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Dermatologist tested non-comedogenic. Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale - unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Hypoallergenic tested, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free. Formulated specifically for sensitive and irritated skin types.
Can be used alongside retinoids and exfoliants to soothe irritation. Apply this serum first to buffer active ingredients.
Contains 3-3.7% Niacinamide. If using other niacinamide products, monitor for overloading which can cause irritation in some people.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHeartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) ExtractProven
A K-beauty favorite, Heartleaf is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids. It controls excess oil production, calms inflammation, and has potent antibacterial properties that make it especially helpful for acne-prone skin.
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and sebum-regulating
- Research: Studies show it helps reduce inflammatory acne lesions and soothes irritated skin
TECA (Centella Asiatica Complex) ~1%Proven
TECA stands for Titrated Extract of Centella Asiatica, containing four key centelloids: Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, and Asiatic Acid. Encapsulated for enhanced absorption and efficacy.
- Madecassoside (0.20-0.40%): Strongest anti-inflammatory and wound healing compound
- Asiaticoside (0.15-0.25%): Stimulates collagen synthesis and skin repair
- Madecassic Acid (0.15-0.25%): Supports skin barrier restoration
- Asiatic Acid (0.15-0.25%): Neutralizes free radicals and boosts antioxidant defense
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 3-3.7%Proven
A well-studied multi-tasking active that regulates sebum production, reduces acne and clogged pores, fights photodamage, and improves skin tone by reducing pigmentation marks.
- Efficacy: 2-4% concentration effective for barrier support and evening skin tone
- Research: Solid evidence for reducing blemishes, oil control, and improving fine lines
Panthenol (Provitamin B5)Proven
Attracts water to the upper layer of skin, calms inflammation and irritation, restores barrier function, and supports wound healing. Proven effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
- Benefit: Deep hydration without greasiness
- Function: Strengthens skin barrier and promotes healing
Succinic AcidPromising
A gentle alternative to BHA (salicylic acid) that helps unclog pores and minimize breakouts. Naturally occurring in sugarcane, it has antibacterial properties without the irritation potential of stronger acids.
- Function: Pore-clearing and antibacterial
- Benefit: Gentler than salicylic acid for sensitive skin
50 ingredients
Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Amber Powder, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Malus Domestica Fruit Extract, Betaine, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isononyl Isononanoate, Panthenol, Glucose, Fructooligosaccharides, Fructose, Tromethamine, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Madecassoside, Allantoin, Sodium Phytate, Succinic Acid, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Arginine, Beta-Glucan, Amodimethicone, Tocopherol, Ectoin, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid, 4-Terpineol, Sorbitol, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on damp skin. Can be used both morning and night. Layer under heavier serums if using multiple treatments.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean skin. Apply your toner and let it absorb while skin is still slightly damp.
Dispense 2-3 Drops
Use the dropper to dispense a moderate amount onto your fingertips. You'll see the visible green TECA capsules in the formula.
Gently Pat to Absorb
Apply evenly across your face and gently tap/pat the skin to help absorption. The capsules will burst and release the concentrated actives.
Follow with Moisturizer
Once absorbed (about 30 seconds), continue with your moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive or easily irritated skin
- You experience redness, rosacea, or inflammation
- You're dealing with acne or breakouts
- You want to strengthen your skin barrier
- You use retinoids and need a soothing buffer
- You prefer lightweight, non-greasy formulas
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (pregnancy-safe)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains oils that feed Malassezia)
- You need intensive dark spot correction (better options exist)
- You prefer richer, more emollient textures
- You have very dry skin needing heavy hydration
- You're sensitive to niacinamide
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight formula absorbs quickly, controls excess sebum with niacinamide, and won't add shine or greasiness.
Balances well across oily and dry zones. Hydrates without overwhelming T-zone or leaving dry patches feeling tight.
Specifically designed for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic tested. Soothes redness and irritation effectively.
Non-comedogenic, antibacterial heartleaf extract, and succinic acid help prevent breakouts. Clinically tested on inflammatory lesions.
Provides hydration but may need a heavier moisturizer on top. Works surprisingly well for calming dry, flaky, barrier-compromised skin.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Soothing & Hydration
Skin feels calmer, less reactive, and more comfortable. Visible redness may start to diminish. No irritation or stinging for most users.
85% noticed immediate soothingReduced Redness & Inflammation
Clinically tested to show significant reductions in inflammatory lesions within 7 days. Skin texture begins to improve and feel smoother.
78% saw reduced inflammationImproved Texture & Fewer Breakouts
Continued reduction in acne and congestion. Post-acne red marks begin to fade. Skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient.
72% noticed clearer skinLong-Term Barrier Strength
Consistent use leads to a more balanced, less reactive complexion. Skin better withstands environmental stressors and active treatments.
68% reported sustained improvementRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional calming effect on redness and irritation
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
- Visible results within 7 days (clinically tested)
- Pairs well with retinoids and exfoliants
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free
- Unique TECA capsule technology for enhanced delivery
- Great for strengthening compromised skin barriers
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains oils)
- 50ml size feels small for the price
- May not fade deep hyperpigmentation effectively
- Some users experienced initial mild stinging
- Capsules can feel slightly gritty
- Contains niacinamide (caution if stacking)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
100ml for nearly half the price. Pure Centella Asiatica extract with minimal ingredients. Similar soothing benefits but lacks the encapsulated TECA technology and niacinamide.
30ml with 76% CICA-7 Complex featuring all 7 Centella components plus Pine Bark Extract. Comparable calming benefits but smaller size. Lacks heartleaf and niacinamide.
60ml with 49% Centella extract plus niacinamide and panthenol. Simpler formula without capsule technology but excellent value for barrier repair and calming.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required but can be stored in fridge for extra cooling effect.
Glass bottle with dropper applicator. Frosted glass helps protect actives from light degradation.
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml TSA limit. Secure dropper cap prevents leaking. Consider protective pouch for glass bottle.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any of the ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy such as retinoids (retinol, tretinoin), salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The main actives - Centella Asiatica, Heartleaf, Niacinamide, and Panthenol - are all pregnancy-safe ingredients. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding new products to your skincare routine during pregnancy.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Castor Oil/IPDI Copolymer and Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, which are oils that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule or COSRX Pure Fit Cica Serum, which are fungal acne safe.
Yes! This serum is actually excellent to use alongside active treatments like retinol, vitamin C, and chemical exfoliants. The calming properties of Centella Asiatica and Heartleaf help soothe any irritation caused by these potent actives. For best results: apply the TECA serum before your retinol or after acids to buffer and calm the skin. When using vitamin C, apply the vitamin C first in the morning, then this serum. The niacinamide content pairs well with most actives, though some prefer to alternate niacinamide and pure vitamin C.
This serum works excellently for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin types. It's particularly well-suited for those dealing with redness, rosacea, inflammation, and breakouts. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly without adding greasiness, making it ideal for oily skin. While it works for dry skin too, very dry skin types may need a richer moisturizer on top. The formula is dermatologist tested for sensitive skin and is non-comedogenic.
Most users notice immediate soothing and hydration from the first use. Clinical testing showed significant reduction in inflammatory lesions within 7 days of consistent use. For visible improvements in redness, skin texture, and post-acne marks, expect to see results within 2-4 weeks. For long-term barrier strengthening and sustained improvement in skin health, continue use for 2+ months.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, while your skin is still slightly damp for better absorption. It goes before heavier serums, essences, and moisturizers. The typical order is: Cleanser → Toner → Abib TECA Serum → Other serums/ampoules → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). You can use it both morning and night.
This serum has been dermatologist tested and confirmed as non-comedogenic. It has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts. The lightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy residue. It's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and contains ingredients like succinic acid that help keep pores clear.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The frosted glass bottle helps protect the active ingredients from light degradation. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Abib Heartleaf TECA Capsule Serum is an excellent choice for anyone dealing with sensitive, irritated, or acne-prone skin. Its innovative encapsulated TECA technology delivers concentrated calming benefits, while the combination of Heartleaf, Niacinamide, and Panthenol provides comprehensive soothing and barrier-strengthening effects. The only drawbacks are its higher price point per ml compared to competitors and the fact that it's not fungal acne safe. If you struggle with redness, inflammation, or need a gentle serum to pair with retinoids, this is a highly effective K-beauty option backed by clinical testing.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 8 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|