R.E.D Blemish Cica Soothing Cream
R.E.D Blemish Cica Soothing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Dr.G R.E.D Blemish Cica Soothing Cream is a lightweight, gel-cream moisturizer from Korea's #1 dermatologist-founded skincare brand, formulated with a powerful 56% Centella Asiatica complex (40.4% Centella Asiatica Extract + 7.76% Leaf Extract + 7.76% Root Extract) and the brand's signature 5-CICA Complex to calm redness, soothe irritation, and strengthen sensitive, blemish-prone skin barriers — all in a 100% vegan, fragrance-free formula.
56% Centella Complex
Triple-source Centella (extract, leaf, root) plus the proprietary 5-CICA Complex delivers powerful soothing for reactive skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY56% Centella Complex
Triple-source Centella (extract, leaf, root) plus the proprietary 5-CICA Complex delivers powerful soothing for reactive skin.
Cools Skin Temperature
Designed to lower skin surface temperature and visibly reduce flushing, redness, and post-blemish marks.
Long-Lasting Hydration
Niacinamide, panthenol, and glycerin work together to support the moisture barrier without heaviness.
Cica Biome Technology
Bacillus Ferment supports the skin microbiome, helping resilience for sensitized, breakout-prone complexions.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, and Bacillus Ferment, which may not be ideal for those highly sensitive to malassezia-triggering ingredients.
Dermatologically tested for irritation. Free of fragrance, essential oils, drying alcohols, parabens, sulfates, and common allergens.
Plays well with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, and most actives — niacinamide and centella help buffer irritation from harsher treatments.
100% vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients and no animal testing.
Mildly acidic, around pH 5.0–5.5, which supports a healthy acid mantle and skin barrier.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica Extract 40.4%Proven
The hero ingredient — also known as Cica or Gotu Kola. This whole-plant extract delivers a powerhouse dose of soothing, anti-inflammatory, and barrier-repairing compounds at an unusually high concentration.
- Mechanism: Active triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid) reduce inflammatory cytokines and stimulate fibroblast collagen synthesis.
- Clinical evidence: Multiple peer-reviewed studies show centella accelerates wound healing, reduces redness, and boosts hyaluronic acid synthesis in the skin.
- Pioneer Use: Used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat burns, scratches, and inflammatory skin conditions like eczema.
Centella Asiatica Leaf & Root Extract 7.76% + 7.76%Proven
Targeted extracts from specific parts of the centella plant. The leaf is particularly rich in madecassoside, while the root contains higher concentrations of asiaticoside, providing layered soothing action.
- Source: Extracts isolate the highest-yielding actives from each part of the plant.
- Synergy: Multi-source centella offers a broader spectrum of triterpenoids than single-source extracts.
- Benefit: Especially valuable for redness-prone, rosacea-tendency, and post-procedure skin.
Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Leaf & Flower Extract ~1-2%Promising
Neem extracts contain flavonoids and polyphenols with antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties — traditionally used in Ayurvedic skincare for blemish-prone complexions.
- Active compounds: Quercetin and nimbolide provide antimicrobial activity against acne-related bacteria.
- Skin benefit: Helps purify the skin without the irritation of harsher acne actives.
Niacinamide 2-3%Proven
The gold-standard multi-tasker. Strengthens the skin barrier, regulates sebum, evens out tone, and minimizes the appearance of pores.
- Concentration: Estimated at 2–3% based on its position on the INCI list — effective without irritation risk.
- Clinical evidence: Studies show measurable improvements in barrier function, redness, and hyperpigmentation after 8–12 weeks.
- Compatibility: Works synergistically with centella to calm reactive skin.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1%Proven
A humectant that deeply hydrates and accelerates barrier repair — particularly beneficial for compromised, sensitized, or post-breakout skin.
- Mechanism: Converts to vitamin B5 in the skin, supporting cell renewal.
- Benefit: Reduces transepidermal water loss and visibly improves softness within days.
Bacillus Ferment ~0.5%Promising
A probiotic ferment that supports the skin microbiome, helping rebalance reactive or compromised skin.
- Mechanism: Postbiotic metabolites help reinforce the skin's natural defenses.
- Note: Ferments can occasionally trigger fungal acne in highly sensitive individuals.
34 ingredients
Centella Asiatica Extract (40.4%), Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract (7.76%), Centella Asiatica Root Extract (7.76%), Glycerin, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Water, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Vinyldimethicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Methicone, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Pentylene Glycol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Panthenol, Dimethiconol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Tromethamine, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Cetearyl Olivate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Olivate, Sodium Phytate, Madecassoside, Dipropylene Glycol, Bacillus Ferment, Tocopherol, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiatic Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final hydrating step. In the AM, follow with sunscreen. At night, this is your closing moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & prep
Start with a freshly cleansed face. Apply your toner and any serums first.
Scoop a pea-sized amount
Use a clean spatula or your fingertip to take a small amount — a little goes a long way.
Dot & spread
Place small dots across forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin, then gently smooth outward.
Pat to absorb
Tap lightly with your palms until the gel-cream fully sinks in (about 30 seconds).
Spot-treat redness
For active blemishes or irritated patches, layer a thicker amount on those areas only.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin that flares easily
- You struggle with redness, post-blemish marks, or rosacea-tendency
- Your skin reacts to fragranced or actives-heavy products
- You break out from heavy creams but still need hydration
- You use retinol, AHA/BHA, or vitamin C and want a calming buffer
- You prefer vegan, cruelty-free K-beauty
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or mature skin needing rich, occlusive moisture
- You're highly fungal-acne-prone (contains ferments and esters)
- You want a product with active anti-aging ingredients like retinol
- You need SPF — this is not a sunscreen
- You dislike gel-cream or jar-style packaging
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel-cream texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum.
Hydrating but may feel too lightweight on its own. Layer with a richer moisturizer or facial oil at night.
Balances oily T-zone and drier cheeks beautifully without clogging or feeling tight.
Fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested, and calming — ideal for reactive, redness-prone complexions.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. Centella and neem extracts help calm active blemishes and post-acne marks.
Niacinamide and centella support firmness and tone, but lacks dedicated anti-aging actives like peptides or retinol.
Results timeline
2–3 MONTHSImmediate calming & hydration
Skin feels cooler, plumper, and visibly less flushed within minutes. The gel-cream sinks in fast and leaves a soft, dewy finish.
82% noticedReduced redness & reactivity
Day-to-day flushing and irritation triggers (mask wear, weather, exfoliants) feel noticeably less intense.
71% noticedStronger barrier & clearer texture
Skin tolerates actives better, post-blemish marks fade faster, and overall texture looks smoother and more even.
64% noticedLong-term resilience
Fewer breakouts, more even tone, and visibly calmer skin overall. Reduced reliance on spot treatments.
58% noticedRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptionally high Centella concentration (40.4% + 7.76% + 7.76%)
- Visibly reduces redness and flushing on first use
- Lightweight, non-greasy gel-cream texture absorbs in seconds
- 100% vegan and fragrance-free formula
- Plays well with retinol, vitamin C, and exfoliating acids
- From Korea's #1 dermatologist-founded skincare brand
- Niacinamide bonus for tone and pore appearance
Criticized
- May be too lightweight for very dry or dehydrated skin
- Jar packaging is less hygienic than airless or tube options
- Not strictly fungal-acne safe (contains ferments and olive esters)
- Higher price point than basic centella creams
- Limited availability outside K-beauty retailers
- No spatula included with the jar
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
100% Centella Asiatica extract in a watery serum format. Less moisturizing on its own but a more concentrated centella punch at one-third the price.
Similar centella-focused gel-cream with niacinamide and panthenol. Slightly heavier texture and a more affordable price tag, though without the 5-CICA branded complex.
Targeted blemish-care cream with centella and propolis. Richer, balm-like texture meant for spot treatment rather than full-face moisturizing.
Soothing serum with green tea and panthenol instead of centella. Targets similar redness/sensitivity concerns but in a watery serum format rather than a moisturizer.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Cream
Purito Centella Green Level Recovery Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life is approximately 36 months from production date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid steamy bathrooms — keep the lid tightly closed to preserve the formula.
Plastic jar with screw-top lid. For best hygiene, use a clean spatula instead of fingers.
Yes — at 70 ml it falls under TSA's 100 ml carry-on liquids limit. Lightweight and travel-safe.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the formula is generally considered pregnancy- and breastfeeding-safe. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters that are typically flagged during pregnancy. The active ingredients — centella asiatica, niacinamide, and panthenol — are all considered low-risk during pregnancy. As always, consult with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before introducing any new product during pregnancy.
Caution is recommended. While the formula is non-comedogenic and free of common fungal-acne triggers like fatty alcohols and most esters, it does contain Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, and Bacillus Ferment, which may not be ideal for those who are highly sensitive to malassezia-feeding ingredients. If you have confirmed fungal acne, patch test for at least one week before applying to your full face.
Yes — in fact, this is one of the cream's main strengths. Centella asiatica and niacinamide are well-known buffers that help reduce the irritation caused by stronger actives. Apply your retinol, vitamin C serum, or AHA/BHA exfoliant first, allow it to absorb fully, then layer this cream on top. It's especially useful as a "sandwich" technique buffer if you have sensitive skin starting actives.
It performs best on oily, combination, sensitive, redness-prone, and acne-prone skin. The lightweight gel-cream texture suits warmer climates and breakout-prone complexions. Those with very dry, dehydrated, or mature skin may find it too lightweight to use as a standalone moisturizer and may want to layer a richer cream on top — particularly at night.
Calming and hydration effects are typically immediate — most users notice cooler, less-flushed skin within minutes of the first application. Visible reduction in chronic redness and reactivity usually shows after 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Improvements in post-acne marks, overall tone, and barrier resilience generally appear after 4–8 weeks.
This cream is the moisturizer step — typically the second-to-last step in your routine. Apply after cleansing, toner, essence, and any serums or treatments. In the morning, follow it with sunscreen as your final step. At night, this is your closing moisturizer (you can layer a sleeping mask or facial oil on top if desired).
No — the formula is non-comedogenic with an estimated comedogenic rating of 1/5. It is oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. The gel-cream texture is specifically designed for acne-prone and oily skin, and centella asiatica is widely recommended by dermatologists for breakout-prone complexions.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Look for the small jar icon with "12M" written inside, typically printed on the bottom of the packaging. With twice-daily use, most users finish the 70 ml jar in 2–4 months, well within the recommended timeframe. Store in a cool, dry place to preserve formula stability.
Verdict: Dr.G R.E.D Blemish Cica Soothing Cream earns its reputation as a K-beauty cult favorite. With one of the highest Centella Asiatica concentrations on the market (over 56% combined extract content) plus the brand's signature 5-CICA Complex and niacinamide, it delivers genuine, visible calming for sensitive, redness-prone, and acne-prone skin. The lightweight gel-cream texture is a perfect daily moisturizer for oily and combination skin, and it layers seamlessly with actives like retinol and exfoliating acids. The main caveats: dry skin types may need to layer something richer on top, and the jar packaging isn't ideal. Still, for anyone whose skin runs hot, reactive, or breakout-prone, this is one of the most well-researched, effective centella creams you can buy.
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 |
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
|
|
| 0 |
Centella Asiatica Root Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
|