Pine Calming Cica Cleanser
Pine Calming Cica Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH-balanced foaming cleanser infused with Pine Cica Activer™ that combines pine leaf extract with 5 types of Centella Asiatica compounds to soothe irritated skin while BHA and LHA gently exfoliate without stripping moisture. Dermatest certified "Excellent" for sensitive skin.
Pine Cica Activer™ Complex
Proprietary blend of Korean pine leaf extract and 5 Centella Asiatica compounds that quickly soothes irritated, troubled skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPine Cica Activer™ Complex
Proprietary blend of Korean pine leaf extract and 5 Centella Asiatica compounds that quickly soothes irritated, troubled skin.
Dual Exfoliation System
BHA (Salicylic Acid) and LHA work together to gently remove dead skin cells and unclog pores without irritation.
Triple Hyaluronic Acid
Three molecular weights of hyaluronic acid prevent post-cleanse dryness and maintain skin's moisture balance.
Dense Micro-Bubble Foam
Creamy, dense foam texture provides thorough cleansing while remaining gentle on sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains low-concentration salicylic acid. While wash-off products at ≤2% are generally considered low-risk, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Topical salicylic acid in wash-off cleansers is unlikely to be absorbed in significant amounts. Avoid applying to chest area.
Free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, and esters that feed malassezia. BHA can actually help fungal acne.
Dermatest certified "Excellent." Passed skin irritation tests. Uses gentle amino acid-based surfactants.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPine Cica Activer™Proprietary
Round Lab's exclusive complex combining Pinus Densiflora (Korean Pine) Leaf Extract with 5 Centella Asiatica-derived ingredients including Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, and Glycoprotein.
- Pine Extract: Rich in antioxidants and traditionally used in Korean folk medicine for skin healing
- CICA Compounds: Clinically proven to stimulate collagen synthesis and accelerate wound healing
Centella Asiatica Extract 10.6ppmProven
Also known as Cica or Gotu Kola, this powerhouse botanical has been used for centuries to treat wounds, burns, and inflammatory skin conditions.
- Study: 25-person, 4-week study confirmed moisturizing and anti-inflammatory effects
- Mechanism: Stimulates GAGs (glycosaminoglycans) and hyaluronic acid synthesis in skin
- Benefits: Speeds healing, reduces inflammation, prevents scarring and dark spots
Salicylic Acid (BHA)Proven
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates pores to dissolve sebum plugs and dead skin cells, making it highly effective for acne-prone skin.
- Function: Exfoliates inside pores, reduces inflammation, unclogs sebaceous filaments
- Clinical Use: Gold standard ingredient for acne treatment
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA)Promising
A gentler derivative of salicylic acid with a larger molecule size, providing exfoliation benefits with less irritation potential.
- Study (2009): Found to be comparable to benzoyl peroxide for acne treatment
- Advantage: Less penetrative than regular BHA, making it suitable for sensitive skin
- Result: Significant decrease in comedones observed in clinical study
Triple Hyaluronic Acid ComplexProven
Three molecular weights of hyaluronic acid work at different skin depths to provide comprehensive hydration.
- Hyaluronic Acid: High molecular weight for surface hydration
- Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid: Smaller molecules penetrate deeper layers
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Salt form with excellent skin absorption
32 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Palm Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Cladosiphon Okamuranus Extract, White Willow Bark Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Glycoproteins, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside, Glyceryl Stearate, Dextrin, Decyl Glucoside, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Phytate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in double cleansing (PM) or as your sole cleanser (AM). Can be used morning and night.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Start with damp skin. If double cleansing, use after your oil-based cleanser.
Create Foam
Dispense a small amount onto wet palms and rub together to create a rich, dense foam.
Massage Gently
Apply foam to face in gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on oily areas.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until no residue remains. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone or oily skin
- Your skin is easily irritated or sensitive
- You want gentle exfoliation in a cleanser
- You experience redness or inflammation
- You need a cleanser that won't strip moisture
- You want to control excess sebum production
Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all BHA products
- You need heavy-duty makeup removal (use oil cleanser first)
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free option
- You want a non-foaming cream or gel cleanser
- You're allergic to any botanical extracts listed
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBHA and LHA effectively control sebum and unclog pores. Dense foam thoroughly removes excess oil without over-drying.
Balances T-zone oil while triple hyaluronic acid keeps dry areas hydrated. Perfect balance for mixed skin types.
Salicylic acid targets acne at the source while Centella soothes inflammation. Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe.
Dermatest certified and passed irritation tests. LHA is gentler than regular BHA. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Triple hyaluronic acid prevents stripping, but very dry skin may need extra hydration. Use once daily or every other day.
Results timeline
WEEK 4-8Clean, Refreshed Feeling
Immediate sensation of deep cleansing without tightness. Skin feels soft and hydrated post-wash.
95% noticedReduced Oiliness & Smaller Pores
BHA and LHA begin regulating sebum production. Pores appear less visible as they unclog.
78% noticedCalmer, Less Irritated Skin
Centella compounds reduce redness and inflammation. Existing breakouts begin to heal faster.
72% noticedClearer, Smoother Complexion
Consistent use shows significant reduction in acne and improved overall skin texture.
85% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective cleansing
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or dry
- Visibly reduces redness and calms irritation
- Controls excess sebum throughout the day
- Dense, satisfying foam texture
- Dermatest certified for sensitive skin
- Contains proven acne-fighting ingredients
- Good value for the ingredient quality
Criticized
- Foam density could be higher for some preferences
- 150ml size may not last long with twice-daily use
- Light herbal scent may not appeal to everyone
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
- Contains salicylic acid (concern for pregnancy)
- Not suitable as a makeup remover alone
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 0.5% salicylic acid and tea tree oil. Simpler formula without the Centella complex or triple hyaluronic acid. More affordable but less soothing benefits.
33% Centella Asiatica extract with coconut-derived surfactants. No BHA/LHA exfoliants. Better for those who want pure soothing without exfoliation.
Triple acid formula (AHA, BHA, PHA) with Truecica™ complex. More exfoliating power but can be drying. Better for severe acne, not for sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Easy to control dispensing amount.
Yes, 150ml exceeds TSA liquid limit (100ml). Transfer to smaller container for carry-on travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains salicylic acid (BHA), which requires caution during pregnancy. While the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers topical salicylic acid at 2% or less to be low-risk, and this is a wash-off product with minimal absorption, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid in cleansers is generally considered safe as it's unlikely to be absorbed significantly, but avoid applying to the chest area.
Yes, this cleanser is fungal acne safe. It does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acids, fatty acid esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Additionally, the salicylic acid content can actually help manage fungal acne by exfoliating and keeping pores clear. The Pine Cica line from Round Lab is known for being fungal acne friendly.
Yes, but with caution. Since this cleanser contains BHA and LHA, using it with other active products increases the risk of over-exfoliation. If you use retinol or strong acids in your routine, consider using this cleanser only once daily or alternating days. For vitamin C, there's no issue as they can work well together. Listen to your skin—if you experience irritation, dryness, or sensitivity, reduce usage frequency.
This cleanser is excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The BHA/LHA combination effectively controls sebum and unclogs pores while the triple hyaluronic acid prevents over-drying. It's also suitable for sensitive skin (Dermatest certified) but may be too drying for very dry skin with twice-daily use. Those with dry skin should use it once daily and follow with hydrating products.
Most users notice immediate results in terms of how their skin feels—clean and refreshed without tightness. Visible improvements in oiliness and pore appearance typically occur within 1-2 weeks. For acne reduction and calmer skin, expect results around 2-4 weeks. Significant improvement in overall skin texture and clarity generally develops within 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Use this as your second cleanser in a double-cleansing routine (after oil cleanser) in the evening to remove sunscreen, makeup residue, and impurities. In the morning, it can be used as your sole cleanser. Always use before toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. The BHA/LHA content makes it effective at preparing skin to absorb subsequent products better.
No, this cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1/5 (very low). It's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and contains BHA which actively works to unclog pores. The formula is free from heavy oils and pore-clogging ingredients. It's also non-comedogenic according to multiple ingredient analysis databases and has passed dermatological testing.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, as a small amount creates sufficient foam for effective cleansing. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain product integrity throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: The Round Lab Pine Calming Cica Cleanser delivers an impressive balance of gentle cleansing and effective acne care. The proprietary Pine Cica Activer™ complex combined with BHA and LHA provides thorough pore cleansing while five types of Centella compounds soothe and calm irritated skin. The triple hyaluronic acid prevents the tight, dry feeling common with acne cleansers. Dermatest certification and fungal acne safety make it suitable for even sensitive, reactive skin. While not the cheapest option, the comprehensive ingredient profile and proven efficacy justify the price point. Ideal for anyone seeking a K-beauty cleanser that tackles acne without compromising skin barrier health.
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 8 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrogenated Palm Acid
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Cocoyl Glycinate
|
|