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The Real Cica Soothing Cream

The Real Cica Soothing Cream

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A lightweight, oil-free gel-cream infused with 73% fresh Centella Asiatica extract harvested within 48 hours. Formulated with patented DERMATIC AC3 complex, niacinamide, and adenosine to soothe irritated skin, control sebum, and brighten your complexion without heaviness or greasiness.

73% Centella Asiatica Oil-Free Fragrance-Free Hypoallergenic Tested No Essential Oils No Alcohol Pregnancy Safe Lightweight Gel-Cream
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
50ml / 1.69 fl oz
Price
$20.00
Type
Gel-Cream
Key Active
73% Cica Extract
Concern
Redness & Irritation
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

73% Fresh Cica Extract

Centella Asiatica extracted within 48 hours of harvest for maximum potency. Contains 4 key triterpenoids: Asiatic Acid (x11), Asiaticoside (x2.7), Madecassic Acid (x2.5), Madecassoside (x1.5) boosted levels.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel-Cream
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Under 30 Seconds
Finish
Natural, Non-Greasy

73% Fresh Cica Extract

Centella Asiatica extracted within 48 hours of harvest for maximum potency. Contains 4 key triterpenoids: Asiatic Acid (x11), Asiaticoside (x2.7), Madecassic Acid (x2.5), Madecassoside (x1.5) boosted levels.

DERMATIC AC3 1%

Patented complex specifically designed for sebum control and trouble care. Helps manage breakouts and excess oil production without drying the skin.

Niacinamide + Adenosine

Dual-action brightening and anti-aging ingredients. Niacinamide fades dark spots and strengthens the skin barrier. Adenosine promotes collagen synthesis for firmer skin.

Ceramide NP Barrier Support

Skin-identical ceramide that reinforces the moisture barrier. Combined with hydrogenated lecithin for enhanced delivery and barrier repair.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Sorbitan Isostearate (isostearic acid base) and Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Oil-free formula with no heavy comedogenic oils or butters. Very low risk of clogging pores, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Hypoallergenic Tested

Formulated without alcohols, essential oils, fragrances, parabens, or sulfates. Passed hypoallergenic testing for sensitive skin compatibility.

Compatible with Retinol

Centella Asiatica and ceramides can help soothe retinol-induced irritation. Great as a calming step during retinoid use.

Patch Test Recommended

While gentle for most, the brand recommends a small patch test before full application, especially for very reactive or sensitized skin.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Centella Asiatica Extract 73%Proven

The star ingredient, extracted from fresh Cica harvested within 48 hours for peak potency. Rich in four triterpenoid compounds that work synergistically to calm inflammation, promote wound healing, and stimulate collagen synthesis.

  • Asiatic Acid: Stimulates collagen Type I synthesis and promotes wound healing. Boosted x11 compared to standard extracts.
  • Madecassoside: Powerful antioxidant that reduces hyperpigmentation and supports skin repair processes.
  • Clinical Evidence: Multiple studies confirm Centella's anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and moisturizing benefits on human skin.
One of the highest Centella concentrations available in a commercial moisturizer. The 48-hour fresh extraction method preserves more active compounds.

DERMATIC AC3 Complex 1%Patented

A proprietary patented ingredient developed specifically for sebum and trouble care. Targets excess oil production and helps prevent breakouts without stripping the skin of necessary moisture.

  • Function: Regulates sebum secretion and provides anti-blemish activity.
  • Benefit: Helps maintain clearer skin by addressing the root causes of oiliness and breakouts.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven

A multi-functional powerhouse ingredient with extensive clinical research backing its benefits. Brightens skin tone, minimizes pore appearance, strengthens the skin barrier, and increases ceramide production.

  • Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce dark spots and uneven skin tone.
  • Barrier: Boosts ceramide synthesis, resulting in a stronger, more resilient skin barrier and improved hydration.
  • Anti-aging: At 4-5% concentration, proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

AdenosineProven

A naturally occurring compound in all living cells that promotes collagen production and helps improve skin firmness. Widely used in Korean skincare as an approved anti-wrinkle active ingredient.

  • Anti-aging: Stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity over time.
  • Wound healing: Supports tissue repair and reduces inflammation at the cellular level.

Ceramide NPProven

A skin-identical lipid that makes up approximately 50% of the intercellular matrix of the skin barrier. Reinforces the moisture barrier and prevents transepidermal water loss for long-lasting hydration.

  • Barrier repair: Replenishes depleted ceramide levels in damaged or compromised skin barriers.
  • Hydration: Works with hydrogenated lecithin to lock in moisture and prevent dehydration.

Saccharomyces Ferment FiltratePromising

A yeast-derived ferment rich in amino acids, minerals, beta-glucan, and vitamins. Provides deep moisturization, skin soothing, and may offer brightening and anti-aging benefits.

  • Composition: Rich in essential minerals, amino acids, beta-glucan, and B vitamins for comprehensive skin nourishment.
  • Benefits: Enhances skin hydration and may improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation.
Ferment ingredients may not be suitable for fungal acne-prone skin as they can potentially feed Malassezia yeast.

35 ingredients

Centella Asiatica Extract (73%), Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, C13-15 Alkane, Water, Niacinamide, Betaine, Ficus Carica Fruit Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Vinyl Dimethicone, Caprylyl Methicone, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethiconol, Butylene Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Cyclohexasiloxane, Tromethamine, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Sorbitan Isostearate, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Ceramide NP, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Harsh Alcohols, Fragrance, Essential Oils, Artificial Colorants, Mineral Oil, Common Allergens, Oils
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum / Ampoule
4
This Cream
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use as the final moisturizing step in your routine. Apply AM and PM. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen. Can be layered over serums and ampoules for enhanced soothing benefits.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount

After completing your cleansing and toner/serum steps, squeeze a pea-sized amount of cream onto your fingertips.

2

Apply Evenly to Face

Dot the cream across your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Spread a thin, even layer over the entire face.

3

Massage Gently Upward

Using your fingers, gently massage the cream into your skin using small, upward circular motions until fully absorbed.

4

Pat for Better Absorption

Softly pat with fingertips to encourage deeper absorption. Follow with sunscreen in your morning routine.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have sensitive, easily irritated, or redness-prone skin
  • You want a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won't feel heavy
  • You are dealing with post-acne irritation or recovering from active treatments
  • You need a soothing cream to pair with retinol or chemical exfoliants
  • You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-irritant formulas
  • You want sebum control without drying out your skin

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have very dry skin that needs a richer, heavier moisturizer
  • You are prone to fungal acne (contains Sorbitan Isostearate and ferment)
  • You need intense anti-aging with high-concentration retinoids
  • You prefer a larger product size (this is only 50ml)
  • You want a strongly occlusive night cream for very dehydrated skin
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Oil-free gel-cream absorbs instantly without adding shine. DERMATIC AC3 helps control sebum. Ideal lightweight moisturizer for oily skin types.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Provides hydration but may not be rich enough on its own for very dry skin. Best layered over a hydrating serum or paired with a heavier night cream.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across different face zones. Lightweight enough for oily T-zone while providing moisture to drier areas. Excellent all-around choice.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Hypoallergenic tested, fragrance-free, and free from common irritants. 73% Cica extract actively soothes and calms reactive skin. Patch test still recommended.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Oil-free and low comedogenic rating (1/5). Niacinamide and DERMATIC AC3 help with blemishes. Not recommended if you have fungal acne specifically.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 6 - 8
Day 1 - 3

Immediate Soothing & Cooling Relief

Noticeable cooling sensation upon application. Skin feels instantly calmed and hydrated. Redness appears visibly reduced within minutes of use.

85% noticed immediate calming
Week 1 - 2

Improved Hydration & Comfort

Skin barrier begins to strengthen. Less tightness and dryness throughout the day. Skin feels softer, more supple, and less reactive to environmental stressors.

75% noticed improved hydration
Week 3 - 4

Visible Redness Reduction & Tone Improvement

Persistent redness and irritation start to fade. Niacinamide begins to brighten overall skin tone. Skin texture becomes smoother and more even.

70% noticed redness reduction
Week 6 - 8

Strengthened Barrier & Clearer Complexion

Skin barrier is noticeably stronger and more resilient. Fewer breakouts and less sebum overproduction. Overall complexion appears brighter, calmer, and healthier.

65% noticed clearer skin
09

Ratings by platform

775+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.4
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 50ml tube size feels expensive for the amount of product you get
iHerb
4.6
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin types on its own
YesStyle
4.7
Rating
25+
Reviews
Main complaint: Lightweight texture may feel insufficient for winter or cold climates
Brand Website
4.8
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users with very sensitive skin experienced mild tingling on first use
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Exceptionally lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs quickly with no stickiness or greasiness
  • High 73% Centella concentration provides powerful soothing and calming effects
  • Oil-free formula works beautifully under makeup as a primer base
  • Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic tested — minimal irritation risk
  • Niacinamide visibly brightens skin tone over consistent use
  • Great for calming skin after retinol, peels, or waxing
  • Cooling sensation feels refreshing on inflamed or heated skin

Criticized

  • 50ml tube is relatively small and may run out quickly with daily use
  • Not moisturizing enough for very dry or dehydrated skin on its own
  • Price per ml is on the higher side compared to competitors with larger sizes
  • Not fungal acne safe due to Sorbitan Isostearate and ferment filtrate
  • Minimal packaging design could be more premium feeling
  • Some users with extremely reactive skin reported mild initial tingling
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Madagascar Centella Soothing Cream
$16.00
Budget Pick

Very similar concept with 72% Centella extract and gel-cream texture. Larger 75ml size offers better value. Includes tranexamic acid and triple ceramide complex but lacks the patented DERMATIC AC3 sebum control ingredient.

70% Match
Wonder Releaf Centella Cream Unscented
$17.00
Budget Pick

Lower Centella concentration (49%) but includes shea butter and squalane for richer moisture. Better for dry skin types but heavier texture. Fragrance-free and fungal acne safe. 50ml size at a lower price.

65% Match
Pure Fit Cica Cream Intense
$22.00
Similar Price

Creamier, richer formula using Centella leaf, root, and stem extracts separately. Better for dry skin but heavier on oily types. Contains ceramides and panthenol but no niacinamide or sebum-control complex. 50ml size.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Centella Soothing Cream
Centella Concentration 72% Extract
Size 75ml
Texture Gel-Cream
Oil-Free Yes
Sebum Control None
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For All Skin Types
Wonder Releaf Centella Cream
Centella Concentration 49%
Size 50ml
Texture Medium Cream
Oil-Free No (Shea Butter)
Sebum Control None
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Dry, Sensitive
Pure Fit Cica Cream Intense
Centella Concentration Not Disclosed
Size 50ml
Texture Rich Cream
Oil-Free No
Sebum Control None
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Dry, Normal, Sensitive
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to maintain freshness.

Packaging

Squeeze tube with screw cap. Hygienic dispensing with minimal air exposure to preserve active ingredients.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 50ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in travel pouches.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. This cream does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The formula is based on Centella Asiatica extract, glycerin, niacinamide, and ceramides — all considered safe for expectant and nursing mothers. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

No. This cream contains Sorbitan Isostearate, which has an isostearic acid base that may feed Malassezia yeast. It also contains Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, a yeast-derived ferment that is another potential trigger. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives like the Purito Centella Unscented Recovery Cream, which is fungal acne safe.

Yes. This cream is actually an excellent companion to active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA). The 73% Centella Asiatica extract and ceramide NP help soothe irritation and support barrier recovery caused by these actives. Apply your actives first, wait for absorption, then apply this cream as a calming and protective final step.

This cream is best suited for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types. Its oil-free, lightweight gel-cream formula absorbs quickly without adding shine, making it ideal for those who find heavier creams too greasy. Sensitive and irritated skin benefits most from the high Centella concentration. Dry skin types may need to layer a richer moisturizer on top.

Most users notice an immediate cooling and soothing effect upon first application. Hydration improvements are typically felt within the first 1-2 weeks. Visible reduction in redness and improved skin tone generally become noticeable around weeks 3-4 with consistent daily use. Significant barrier strengthening and long-term clarity improvements usually appear by weeks 6-8.

Apply this cream as the last moisturizing step in your routine, after cleanser, toner, and any serums or ampoules. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. The lightweight formula layers well under SPF products and makeup. It can be used both AM and PM.

This cream has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The oil-free formula does not contain heavy oils, butters, or known pore-clogging ingredients. The gel-cream texture absorbs quickly and is unlikely to clog pores for most people. It is suitable for acne-prone skin, though individual reactions can always vary.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The 50ml tube with a screw cap helps minimize air exposure and contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check the expiration date printed on the packaging for the unopened shelf life.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Celimax The Real Cica Soothing Cream delivers on its promise of lightweight, effective soothing for irritated and sensitive skin. The 73% fresh Centella extract is among the highest concentrations on the market, and the inclusion of the patented DERMATIC AC3 complex sets it apart from competitors for oily and acne-prone users. The oil-free, fragrance-free formula is ideal for those who want calm, hydrated skin without heaviness. The main drawbacks are the relatively small 50ml size for the price and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. For oily, combination, and sensitive skin types seeking a reliable daily soothing moisturizer, this is an excellent choice that punches well above its weight.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Centella Asiatica Extract Niacinamide Adenosine Ceramide NP
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Centella Asiatica Extract Glycerin Niacinamide Adenosine
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
62% 37%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 35 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 B
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
0 Unknown
C13-15 Alkane
Solvent
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS