Mugwort Cica Essence Toner
Mugwort Cica Essence Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A soothing and deeply hydrating essence toner formulated with Mugwort, Centella Asiatica (Cica), and Cactus Extract to calm inflammation, reduce redness, and strengthen your skin barrier. pH-balanced, lightweight essence texture absorbs quickly for plump, healthy-looking skin.
Mugwort + Cica Dual Calming
Combines Artemisia Capillaris Extract and Centella Asiatica to deliver powerful anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing benefits, reducing redness and irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMugwort + Cica Dual Calming
Combines Artemisia Capillaris Extract and Centella Asiatica to deliver powerful anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing benefits, reducing redness and irritation.
Deep Humectant Hydration
Loaded with Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol (~2%), Glycerin, and Cactus Extract for multi-layer hydration that plumps skin from within.
Barrier Repair Complex
Panthenol and Centella Asiatica work synergistically to strengthen the skin barrier, promote wound healing, and protect against environmental stressors.
Tetrapeptide-44 Anti-Aging
Contains the signal peptide Tetrapeptide-44 to support collagen production and improve skin firmness for a youthful, supple appearance.
7 Botanical Extracts
A herbal powerhouse blend of Green Tea, Licorice Root, Chamomile, Rosemary, Aloe Vera, Skullcap Root, and Japanese Knotweed for antioxidant and brightening benefits.
Clean & Gentle Formula
Free from fragrance, alcohol, parabens, SLS, artificial colors, and silicones. pH-balanced and safe for sensitive skin. Refrigerator-friendly for an extra cooling effect.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The brand confirms pregnancy safety.
Contains Polysorbate-free formula, but Glycerin and Butylene Glycol at higher concentrations may feed Malassezia in some individuals. Patch test recommended if you are prone to fungal acne.
Oil-free, silicone-free formula with no heavy occlusives. Very low chance of clogging pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and formulated with soothing Centella Asiatica, Chamomile, and Aloe Vera. Patch test recommended for extremely reactive skin.
Safe to layer with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Its soothing properties actually help buffer irritation from strong actives.
Does not contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-harming chemicals. Safe for ocean-conscious users.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica Extract (Cica) ~1.3%Proven
One of the most researched soothing ingredients in skincare. Contains active compounds called centellosides (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) that calm inflammation, promote wound healing, and stimulate collagen synthesis.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation through multiple pathways including NF-κB inhibition
- Wound Healing: Stimulates fibroblast proliferation and collagen I & III synthesis
- Hydration: Promotes natural hyaluronic acid synthesis in the skin (confirmed in 4-week clinical study)
Artemisia Capillaris Extract (Mugwort) ~0.5–1%Promising
A traditional East Asian herbal extract with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Clinical studies show it can improve dry skin symptoms in atopic dermatitis and help calm irritated, reactive skin.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Ethyl acetate fraction shown to suppress inflammatory markers in RAW264.7 cells (Kim et al., 2018)
- Antioxidant: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds that neutralize free radicals
- Soothing: Traditionally used to reduce skin irritation and promote healing
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~2%Proven
A powerful humectant that penetrates deep into the skin and converts to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). Attracts and retains moisture, promotes skin barrier repair, and accelerates wound healing.
- Hydration: Acts as a humectant, binding water molecules to keep skin hydrated from within
- Barrier Repair: Supports lipid synthesis in the stratum corneum for stronger skin barrier function
- Wound Healing: Promotes fibroblast proliferation and helps close open wounds
Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract (Cactus) ~0.5%Promising
Prickly pear cactus extract rich in polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Provides intense hydration and helps the skin retain moisture in dry or dehydrated conditions.
- Hydration: High concentration of polysaccharides creates a moisture reservoir on the skin surface
- Antioxidant: Contains betalains and flavonoids that protect against UV-induced oxidative stress
Sodium Hyaluronate <1%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular weight for better skin penetration. Capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, delivering intense hydration to deeper skin layers.
- Deep Hydration: Smaller molecule than hyaluronic acid allows better penetration into the skin
- Plumping: Fills in fine lines and wrinkles by attracting water to the dermis
Tetrapeptide-44 <0.5%Promising
A signal peptide that communicates with skin cells to boost hydration and support collagen production. Helps improve skin firmness and elasticity over time.
- Anti-Aging: Supports collagen synthesis to improve skin firmness
- Hydration: Enhances the skin's natural moisture-retention mechanisms
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) ~0.5%Proven
One of the most researched natural antioxidants containing catechins (especially EGCG). Provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and photoprotective benefits for the skin.
- Antioxidant: EGCG neutralizes free radicals up to 200× more effectively than vitamin E
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces UV-induced inflammation and redness
- Antimicrobial: Shown to inhibit P. acnes bacteria associated with acne breakouts
28 ingredients
Aqua, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Artemisia Capillaris Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrapeptide-44, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Nitrate, Glyoxal
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night after cleansing. As a humectant-only product, always follow with a moisturizer to lock in hydration. Can be layered 2–3 times for extra hydration (7-skin method).
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean face. Use your regular cleanser and pat your skin dry gently, leaving it slightly damp for better absorption.
Dispense 3–5 Drops
Pour a few drops of the essence toner onto the palm of your hands. You can also use a cotton pad for a gentle wipe-on application.
Pat Gently Into Skin
Apply evenly across your face and neck using a light patting motion. Gently press the product into your skin to aid absorption — avoid rubbing.
Wait & Layer
Allow 30–60 seconds for full absorption. For extra hydration, repeat steps 2–3 up to 3 times (cotton pad soaking method or 7-skin method). Follow with your serum and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, irritated, or red skin that needs calming
- You want lightweight hydration without heaviness or greasiness
- You are looking for a soothing toner to pair with active ingredients (retinol, AHA/BHA)
- You experience acne-related inflammation and redness
- You want a clean, fragrance-free formula safe for pregnancy
- You are on a budget but want effective Korean/Asian-inspired skincare
- You enjoy the 7-skin layering method for deep hydration
Consider alternatives if:
- You need heavy-duty occlusive moisturization (this is purely humectant)
- You want strong anti-aging benefits — this focuses on soothing/hydrating
- You have confirmed fungal acne and are strict about FA-safe products
- You prefer thicker, cream-type toners for very dry climates
- You want a toner with exfoliating properties (AHA/BHA/PHA)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight essence texture absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Oil-free formula provides hydration without clogging pores.
Provides excellent humectant hydration, but lacks occlusive ingredients. Layer multiple times and always follow with a rich moisturizer for best results.
Balances perfectly across different face zones. Hydrates dry patches without overwhelming oily areas. Ideal for T-zone/cheek balance.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with Cica and Mugwort specifically targets irritation and redness. Holy grail for many sensitive skin users.
Non-comedogenic (rating 1/5), oil-free, and anti-inflammatory. Great for calming acne redness, though it does not directly treat acne. Pair with a targeted treatment.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Hydration & Soothing
Skin feels noticeably more hydrated, plump, and calm right after application. Redness and tightness begin to subside. Many users report an instant cooling, soothing sensation.
85% noticed immediate hydration boostReduced Redness & Calmer Skin
Visible reduction in redness and inflammation. Skin texture begins to improve, feeling smoother and less reactive. Bumps and small breakouts start to flatten.
70% noticed reduced redness in first weekStronger Skin Barrier & Glow
Skin barrier feels noticeably stronger — less reactivity to environmental triggers. Complexion appears more even-toned, dewy, and healthy. Dullness fades as hydration levels stabilize.
65% reported improved skin barrier strengthLong-Term Skin Health
Consistent use shows continued improvement in overall skin clarity, reduced frequency of breakouts and irritation, and a more resilient complexion. Best results with consistent AM/PM routine.
80% would repurchase after 2 monthsRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional soothing and calming effect — visibly reduces redness within days
- Lightweight essence texture absorbs quickly with no sticky residue
- Clean formula: fragrance-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free, silicone-free
- Very affordable price point for 100ml of high-quality essence toner
- Pregnancy-safe with no harsh chemicals or questionable ingredients
- Works beautifully for 7-skin method and cotton pad soaking
- 96% recommendation rate on Female Daily with 447+ reviews
- Pairs well with active ingredients like retinol and vitamin C
Criticized
- Purely humectant — needs to be followed with a moisturizer for lasting hydration
- 100ml size may feel small for daily AM/PM users
- Some oily skin users report it feels slightly heavy in very humid climates
- Limited availability outside of Southeast Asia and online retailers
- No significant anti-wrinkle or anti-aging active concentrations
- Not confirmed fungal acne safe — caution needed for FA-prone skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESCentella-focused toner with allantoin and panthenol. Higher Cica concentration with purified centellosides, but lacks mugwort and the botanical blend. Slightly thicker texture. 150ml size offers better value per ml.
Centella Asiatica-based ampoule with a more viscous texture. Fungal acne safe and vegan/cruelty-free. Focuses purely on centella without mugwort or the multi-botanical approach. 100ml size. More occlusive feel.
Focuses on 5 different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid for deep hydration. More hydrating but lacks the soothing mugwort/cica complex. Better for pure hydration seekers. 300ml size is excellent value.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigerator-friendly for an extra soothing, cooling effect on application.
Slim plastic bottle with screw cap and inner protective seal to prevent spills. Pastel green design.
Yes, 100ml size is under the standard carry-on liquid limit. Compact and lightweight bottle fits easily in travel pouches.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This toner contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The brand has confirmed this product is safe for use by pregnant and nursing women. All ingredients are gentle, plant-based actives and safe humectants.
Use with caution. While this toner does not contain ferments, polysorbates, fatty acids, or esters that are major fungal acne triggers, it does contain Glycerin and Butylene Glycol in significant concentrations. These ingredients can potentially feed Malassezia yeast in some individuals. If you are highly prone to fungal acne, patch test first or consult a dermatologist.
Yes, absolutely. This toner is designed to soothe and hydrate, making it an excellent companion for active ingredients that may cause irritation. Apply this toner first to provide a calming base, then follow with your retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliant. The Centella Asiatica and Mugwort help buffer potential irritation from these stronger actives.
This toner works well for all skin types but is especially excellent for sensitive, combination, and oily skin. Its lightweight essence texture absorbs quickly without heaviness. For dry skin, layer it multiple times and always follow with a rich moisturizer to seal in hydration. It is particularly loved by those with reactive, redness-prone skin.
Most users report immediate hydration and soothing from the very first application. Visible reduction in redness typically occurs within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Improved skin barrier strength and overall skin clarity are generally noticed by weeks 3–4. For best results, use consistently twice daily (morning and night) for at least one month.
Apply immediately after cleansing as the first step of your skincare routine. As an essence toner, it goes before serums, treatments, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Dispense 3–5 drops into your palms and pat onto your face and neck. You can also soak cotton pads for a mini sheet mask treatment on irritated areas.
No. This toner has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it has very low pore-clogging potential. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no heavy occlusives. It relies entirely on lightweight humectants (Panthenol, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin) that hydrate without blocking pores. It is safe for acne-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and freshness. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The product is also refrigerator-friendly, which can extend freshness and provide an extra soothing cooling effect during application.
Verdict: The True to Skin Mugwort Cica Essence Toner is an outstanding value-for-money soothing toner that delivers real results for sensitive, irritated, and redness-prone skin. Its clean, fragrance-free formula combines the calming power of Mugwort and Centella Asiatica with deep humectant hydration from Panthenol and Hyaluronic Acid. With a 96% recommendation rate from hundreds of users, pregnancy-safe ingredients, and an incredibly affordable price point, this is an excellent everyday toner — especially for those who want effective Asian skincare without the premium K-beauty price tag. Just remember to follow with a moisturizer since it is purely humectant-based.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|






